Paraguay Residency Updates: Law 6984 Requirements

Law 6984/22: The Foundation of Current Requirements

In October 2022, Paraguay implemented Law No. 6984/22, a comprehensive reform of the country's immigration framework. This law replaced the previous migration system and fundamentally changed how foreigners obtain residency.

The most important shift is the move from a "direct-to-permanent" model to a "temporary-to-permanent" model. Before the law, some applicants could obtain permanent residency immediately. Under Law 6984/22, nearly everyone must first hold temporary residency for two years before becoming eligible for permanent status.

The New Two-Step Process: Temporary to Permanent

Phase 1: Temporary Residency (Mandatory First Step)

Temporary residency is now the mandatory entry point for nearly all applicants. This status is valid for two years and can be renewed if needed.

During your temporary residency period, you receive a Paraguayan ID card (Cédula) which allows you to work, open bank accounts, start businesses, and access public services. Contrary to some misconceptions, there is no minimum stay requirement you must physically be in Paraguay. However, maintaining your tax residency status requires keeping your RUC (Tax ID) active through monthly filings, regardless of your physical location.

Phase 2: Permanent Residency (After 21 Months)

Permanent residency is the long-term status that most applicants ultimately seek. After completing 21 months of temporary residency, you can apply to convert your status.

Permanent residency is valid for ten years and renewable. It provides more secure status and is the prerequisite for eventual citizenship applications.

For more details on the difference between temporary and permanent residency, see our guide to temporary vs. permanent residency.

For complete residency requirements including income proof categories and economic solvency demonstration, see our requirements page.

SUACE Investment: The Fast Track to Permanent Residency

If waiting two years for permanent residency does not work for your situation, there is an alternative pathway through the SUACE (Sistema Único de Apertura de Empresas de Comercio) investment program.

The SUACE option allows qualified investors to obtain permanent residency directly, bypassing the two-year temporary residency requirement. The program requires a minimum investment of $70,000 USD into the Paraguayan economy, spread over up to ten years. In 2026, SUACE applicants must present a detailed business plan showing how the investment will be deployed and commit to creating at least five local jobs if their business model allows.

2026-Specific Updates You Need to Know

Application Surge: 79% Increase in January

Paraguay is experiencing unprecedented demand for residency in 2026. According to official data from Migraciones, 2,817 residency applications were filed in the first 20 days of 2026, representing a 79% increase compared to the same period in 2025.

This surge means processing times may be longer than in previous years. It also means that accuracy in your application is more critical than ever. Errors or incomplete documentation can lead to significant delays in an already busy system.

New Crypto Disclosure Requirements (March 2026)

If you hold or trade cryptocurrencies, a major new requirement took effect in March 2026. The DNIT (Dirección Nacional de Ingresos Tributarios) issued General Resolution No. 47/2026, establishing mandatory reporting for crypto transactions.

For complete details on crypto reporting requirements, see our guide to DNIT Resolución General 47/2026.

Venezuelan Visa Changes (January 2026)

Effective January 10, 2026, Decree No. 5278/2026 established new requirements for Venezuelan citizens. Venezuelans entering Paraguay must now present a valid passport AND obtain a consular visa before arrival.

MigraMóvil 2026 Program

The Migraciones department has scheduled 22 editions of the MigraMóvil program for 2026. This mobile service brings immigration officers to cities outside Asunción, including Ciudad del Este, making it easier for residents outside the capital to complete certain procedures without traveling.

Document Requirements for 2026

The core document requirements for Paraguay residency have remained consistent, but attention to detail is more important than ever with the increased application volume.

For a comprehensive guide to all required documents, see our document requirements page.

For information about residency costs and package options, see our costs page.

Processing Timelines in 2026: What to Expect

Processing times vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. Based on current data, you should expect the following general timelines:

For a detailed timeline of the entire process, see our residency timeline guide.

Banking and Tax Compliance Updates

Paraguay's banking and tax systems continue to evolve in 2026. Two important updates affect new residents:

New Digital Banking Options
Once you have your Cédula, you can access digital banking platforms like Ueno and Eko. These banks offer instant account opening, Apple Pay integration, and QR payment functionality.

Marangatu 2.0 Platform
The DNIT's Marangatu 2.0 digital platform is now the central system for all tax matters. If you establish tax residency, you will file monthly IVA (VAT) reports through this system, even if you have no local income.

Is Paraguay Residency Still Worth It in 2026?

Despite the changes, Paraguay remains one of the most attractive residency options globally. The territorial tax system is unchanged - foreign-sourced income remains tax-exempt. Costs are still low compared to similar programs. The citizenship pathway remains clear after three years of permanent residency.

For more on how territorial taxation works, see our territorial tax explainer.

To compare Paraguay with other residency options, see our comparison with Chile and comparison with Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions