Quick Answer
Argentinians can use the DNI instead of a passport, and Spanish-language documents are accepted without translation. The MERCOSUR temporary residency is valid for 2 years and is not renewable, so you must upgrade to permanent within 90 days before it expires. The Interpol certificate is required, as for any nationality. With no cepo cambiario, you can buy dollars freely. Service packages start at $2,290.
Source: Dirección Nacional de Migraciones
MERCOSUR Advantage
Why Argentinians Choose Paraguay
Problems in Argentina
- ✗ Cepo cambiario, no access to dollars
- ✗ High annual inflation
- ✗ High taxes (up to 35%)
- ✗ Constant economic instability
Solution in Paraguay
- ✓ No cepo, buy dollars freely
- ✓ Inflation around 4-5% annually
- ✓ 0% tax on foreign income
- ✓ Stable, predictable economy
Banking Without Restrictions
With your Paraguayan cédula you can:
- ✓ Open accounts in dollars and guaraníes
- ✓ Buy foreign currency with no limits
- ✓ Receive international transfers
- ✓ Use international debit and credit cards
- ✓ Access crypto exchanges with KYC
Important Note
Banking Escape Guide
The process to establish your financial base in Paraguay:
Get Your Paraguayan Cédula
First you need to complete your residency (about 60-120 days, 90 common). The cédula is a mandatory requirement to open accounts at most banks.
Open an Account at a Paraguayan Bank
We recommend Ueno Bank (digital, fast), Banco Familiar (foreigner-friendly), or Itaú (large, international). You can open accounts in guaraníes and dollars.
Transfer Your Funds
Use Wise or SWIFT transfers. There is no cepo in Paraguay, so you can buy dollars freely. Some people also use crypto as a bridge.
No Currency-Purchase Limits
Paraguay has no "cepo cambiario." You can buy dollars at any bank or exchange house with no limits, no BCRA authorization, and no extra taxes. Your money is yours.
Required Documents
DNI or Passport
Argentinians can use the DNI (valid and in good condition) or a passport.
Birth Certificate
Birth certificate apostilled by the Colegio de Escribanos of your province.
Criminal Record Certificate
Criminal record certificate (antecedentes penales), apostilled. Argentinians also need the Interpol certificate (issued in Asunción), as every nationality does, plus the MERCOSUR sworn declaration.
Important: 2-Year Validity
FAQ
Can I escape the cepo cambiario with Paraguay residency?
Yes. With Paraguay residency you can open bank accounts in Paraguay in dollars and guaraníes, with no currency-purchase restrictions. You get access to a financial system that has no cepo and no exchange controls.
How long does Paraguay residency take for Argentinians?
The temporary residency card takes about 60-120 days (90 is common), the same timeline as for citizens of any country. The MERCOSUR advantage for Argentinians is in the documentation, not the speed: you use your DNI instead of a passport and your Spanish-language documents are accepted without translation.
Do Argentinians need an Interpol background check for Paraguay?
Yes. The Interpol certificate, issued in Asunción, is required for all applicants, including Argentinians under MERCOSUR. MERCOSUR nationals also provide a sworn declaration alongside the Interpol check and your apostilled antecedentes penales from Argentina. The sworn declaration is additional, not a replacement for the Interpol check.
What is the total cost for an Argentinian?
Our Paraguay residency package starts at $2,290 USD, all-inclusive. Government fees, translations, document handling, and processing are all covered in the package price. No bank deposit is required. See our pricing page for package tiers.
Is Paraguay more economically stable than Argentina?
Yes. Paraguay has single-digit inflation (4-5% annually), a stable currency (the guaraní), no exchange controls, and consistent economic policy. Argentina has high inflation, the cepo cambiario, and constant volatility.
Which bank do you recommend for Argentinians in Paraguay?
Ueno Bank is the easiest for foreigners: 100% digital, in Spanish, and accepts registration with just a cédula. Banco Familiar is also friendly. For larger operations, Itaú or Banco Nacional de Fomento offer accounts in USD and EUR.
Can I use Wise or international transfers from Paraguay?
Yes. Paraguay has no restrictions on international transfers. You can send and receive money via SWIFT, Wise works for receiving payments, and there are no taxes on currency movements as there are in Argentina.