How to Choose a Paraguay Residency Agent
Quick Answer:
Choosing a Paraguay residency agent requires evaluating three main options: DIY (self-service), budget facilitators, and full-service agents, with costs ranging from government fees only to comprehensive white-glove service. The decision depends on your Spanish proficiency, time availability, budget, and desired level of support. Key evaluation criteria include credential verification, transparent pricing, payment structure protection, and recognition of critical red flags like upfront payment demands without contracts.
Agent Selection Facts
Service Options
DIY, budget facilitator, full-service agent
Evaluation Framework
How to assess provider credentials and quality
Critical Questions
What to ask before hiring any agent
Red Flags
Warning signs of unreliable providers
⚠️ Important Disclaimer:
This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Paraguay Sovereign does not endorse or recommend specific providers other than our own services. Always conduct your own due diligence when selecting a service provider.
Agent Selection Guide Contents
DIY vs Hiring an Agent: Honest Comparison
Here's the truth: You don't legally need an agent. Paraguay residency can be done independently.
But should you? Let's compare.
DIY (Do It Yourself)
✅ Pros:
- Lowest cost: $500-900 total (just government fees + translations)
- No scam risk: You're in control, can't be defrauded
- Learn the system: Understand Paraguay bureaucracy firsthand
- Full control: No middleman, direct contact with government
- Satisfaction: Pride in doing it yourself
❌ Cons:
- Language barrier: Must speak Spanish (Migraciones operates in Spanish only)
- Time-consuming: Multiple trips to government offices, long wait times
- Navigate bureaucracy yourself: Confusing forms, unclear requirements
- Mistake risk: Single error restarts entire process (lose fees paid)
- No guidance: Figure everything out alone
- Must be in Paraguay: Can't do remotely
DIY is viable if you:
- Speak conversational Spanish
- Live in or near Asunción
- Have 3-4 months to dedicate to the process
- Don't mind bureaucracy and waiting
- Want to save money
Hiring an Agent/Facilitator
✅ Pros:
- Saves time: Agent handles bureaucracy, you focus on your life
- Spanish language help: Agent communicates with Migraciones
- Knows the process: Experienced with Migraciones procedures
- Avoids mistakes: Agent catches errors before submission
- Less stress: Someone guides you through each step
- Can start remotely: Some prep work before arriving in Paraguay
- Established relationships: Agents know Migraciones officers, can navigate delays
❌ Cons:
- Higher cost: $1,200-3,500 (vs $500-900 DIY)
- Risk of scams: Many fraudulent "agents" (see our Avoiding Scams guide)
- Less control: Depend on agent's timeline and process
- Quality varies: Some agents excellent, others terrible
Hiring an agent makes sense if you:
- Don't speak Spanish fluently
- Value time over money
- Want to minimize stress
- Arriving in Paraguay for limited time (exploratory visit)
- Running a business / working remotely (time is valuable)
Hybrid Approach
Some people do partial DIY:
- Hire agent for document prep and Migraciones filing
- Handle translations yourself (cheaper)
- Attend appointments yourself with agent (learn the process)
This can reduce cost to $1,500-2,000 while still getting key help.
Our Honest Recommendation
For most foreigners: Hire an agent.
Why? The time saved, stress avoided, and mistake prevention is worth $1,500-2,500 for most people. A single Migraciones error can cost you $400+ in re-filing fees plus weeks of delay.
If you speak Spanish and enjoy bureaucracy, DIY is viable. Otherwise, hire help.
What Agents Actually Do
What does your money buy? Here's what a full-service agent provides:
Pre-Arrival (Before You Reach Paraguay)
- Initial consultation: Explain process, timeline, requirements
- Document review: Check your docs before you apostille them
- Requirement checklist: Tailored list of what YOU need (varies by country)
- Appointment scheduling: Book your bank appointment, Migraciones slots
Upon Arrival (First Week)
- Meet at office: Review all documents in person
- Bank accompaniment: Help open Paraguay bank account ($5k deposit)
- Translation coordination: Send docs for official translation
- Document certification: Get translations certified by public translator
- Photos: Arrange for official residency photos
Migraciones Filing (Week 2-3)
- Application prep: Fill out all Migraciones forms (in Spanish)
- Document compilation: Organize everything in required format
- Migraciones appointment: Submit application with you
- Fee payment: Handle government fee payment (~$336)
- Receipt collection: Get your tramite number (tracking number)
Processing Period (60-90 days)
- Status checks: Monitor application progress
- Updates: Keep you informed of any developments
- Problem resolution: Address any Migraciones requests or issues
- Additional docs: Submit supplemental documents if requested
Approval & Card Collection (Final Month)
- Approval notification: Alert you when approved
- Carnet pickup: Collect your residency card (carnet)
- Cédula application: Apply for Paraguayan ID card (cédula)
- Cédula pickup: Collect cédula when ready (2-4 weeks)
- Certificate collection: Get your official residence certificate
What Agents DON'T Do
To set expectations, agents typically do NOT:
- Obtain your documents for you: You must get police background check, birth certificate from your home country
- Apostille for you (unless you pay extra): You handle apostilles in home country
- Find housing: Some offer this as add-on service, most don't
- Guarantee approval: No one can guarantee (Migraciones decides)
- Expedite processing: No official express option exists
Reputable agents are honest about what they can't do.
What to Expect to Pay (2026 Market Rates)
Understand the cost breakdown:
Fixed Government Costs (Everyone Pays These)
- Migraciones filing fee: Required government filing fee
- Residence certificate: Small administrative fee
- Photos, misc fees: Minor processing costs
- Total government: Several hundred dollars
Document Costs (Varies by Individual)
- Apostilles (home country): Varies per document
- Translations (Paraguay): Professional translation fees apply
- Typical total (3-5 documents): Additional document preparation costs
Agent/Lawyer Service Fees
This is where variation occurs:
💡 Tip: Scroll horizontally to see full table on mobile
| Service Level | Service Fee | Total All-In | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY | $0 | $500-900 | You handle everything yourself |
| Budget Local Facilitator | $500-1,000 | $1,200-1,800 | Basic help, Spanish only, limited English |
| Mid-Range Agent | $1,000-1,800 | $1,800-2,500 | Full service, English support, established |
| Premium Service | $1,800-3,000 | $2,500-3,500 | White-glove, concierge, relocation help |
| US-Based Agency | $3,000-5,000 | $3,500-5,500 | US company, Paraguay partners, high-touch |
What Determines Price?
- Language support: English-speaking agents charge more
- Experience: Established providers vs new facilitators
- Service level: Basic vs white-glove
- Location: US-based agencies charge more than Paraguay-based
- Included services: Some include translations, others charge extra
- Reputation: Well-reviewed providers can charge premium
Fair Price Range for Most People
$1,800 - $3,500 total is fair for full-service agent with English support.
This includes government fees, translations, and service fee.
- Under $1,000 total: Suspiciously low (scam risk or incomplete)
- $1,200-1,800: Budget option (basic service)
- $1,800-2,500: Sweet spot (good value)
- $2,500-3,500: Premium (worth it for high-touch)
- Over $5,000: Overpriced unless includes major extras
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Ask explicitly if these are included or extra:
- Translation fees
- Notary fees
- Courier/document shipping
- Cédula application (some charge extra)
- Multiple appointments (if you need to return)
- "Coordination fees" or "processing fees" (vague charges)
Demand an itemized quote showing everything included and excluded.
How to Evaluate Providers
Use this framework to assess any agent, lawyer, or facilitator:
1. Physical Presence
- ✅ Do they have a physical office in Asunción? (Not just mailing address)
- ✅ Can you visit before paying? (Legitimate providers welcome office visits)
- ❌ Red flag: No office, won't meet in person, "remote only"
2. Track Record
- ✅ How long in business? (2+ years ideal, 6+ months minimum)
- ✅ How many clients? (50+ successful cases = experienced)
- ✅ Clients from your country? (US, UK, Brazil, etc. - specific experience)
- ❌ Red flag: Brand new, no track record, vague answers
3. Transparency
- ✅ Itemized pricing? (Clear breakdown of all costs)
- ✅ Written contract? (Detailed terms, not vague)
- ✅ Refund policy? (In writing, specific conditions)
- ✅ Names lawyer? (Tells you who the Migraciones lawyer is)
- ❌ Red flag: Won't provide written quote, vague on costs, no contract
4. References & Reviews
- ✅ Client testimonials? (Real names, verifiable)
- ✅ Can you contact past clients? (2-3 references provided)
- ✅ Online reviews? (Google, Trustpilot, expat forums)
- ✅ Video testimonials? (Harder to fake)
- ❌ Red flag: No testimonials, won't provide references, only fake-looking reviews
5. Communication
- ✅ Responsive? (24-48hr response time)
- ✅ Clear explanations? (Answers questions patiently)
- ✅ English proficiency? (If you need it)
- ✅ Professional demeanor?
- ❌ Red flag: Slow responses, unclear answers, pushy sales tactics
6. Realistic Expectations
- ✅ Honest timeline? (60-90 days, not 30)
- ✅ Admits limitations? ("Can't guarantee approval," "No express processing")
- ✅ Explains risks? (What could go wrong)
- ❌ Red flag: Promises 30-day completion, guarantees approval, overpromises
Scoring System
Rate each provider on the 6 criteria above (1-5 points each):
- 25-30 points: Excellent provider, highly recommended
- 20-24 points: Good provider, likely safe choice
- 15-19 points: Average, proceed with caution
- Below 15: Red flags, avoid
Ready to Work with a Provider Who Passes the Test?
We score 30/30 on our own evaluation framework: physical office, 2+ years track record, transparent pricing, client references, responsive communication, and realistic timelines. See for yourself.
15 Questions to Ask Every Provider
Before hiring anyone, get answers to these questions in writing:
1. What's included in your fee?
Demand detailed list: Migraciones filing, translations, bank help, cédula application, etc.
2. What are the government fees vs your service fee?
Should separate (~$400 govt, $1,000-3,000 service). Transparency test.
3. What's NOT included?
What do YOU have to do? Apostilles? Find housing? Travel costs?
4. Can I pay in milestones?
Should say yes. Typical: 25% deposit, 50% at filing, 25% at completion. Never 100% upfront.
5. What's your refund policy?
If application denied or you change your mind, what's refunded? Get in writing.
6. Who is your Migraciones lawyer?
Should name them. Verify lawyer is real (Google, Paraguay bar association).
7. Can I speak with past clients?
Should provide 2-3 references. Contact them, ask about experience.
8. What's the realistic timeline?
Should say 60-90 days. If they promise 30 days, red flag.
9. What if my application is delayed?
Delays happen. How do they handle it? Extra fees? Their process?
10. What if application is denied?
Rare, but possible. Do they help with appeals? Refund? What's the plan?
11. How long have you been doing this?
2+ years ideal. 6+ months minimum. Brand new = higher risk.
12. How many clients from my country?
US, UK, Brazil, etc. Should have specific number and experience with your country's documents.
13. Can I visit your office?
Should say yes and provide address. Visit before paying if possible.
14. What happens if I leave Paraguay during processing?
Usually okay to leave after filing. Clarify if you need to be present for any steps.
15. Are there any additional fees that might come up?
Should say no, or specify exactly what. No surprises.
If they dodge questions, give vague answers, or won't put responses in writing: walk away.
Payment Structure Best Practices
Recommended Payment Schedule
- 25% deposit upon signing contract
- Shows commitment from both sides
- Covers initial document review, consultation
- 50% upon Migraciones filing
- After agent submits your application
- Covers translation, filing, government fees
- 25% upon completion (carnet + cédula received)
- Only pay when you have BOTH documents in hand
- Ensures agent completes entire process
Payment Methods
- ✅ Bank transfer: Traceable, professional
- ✅ Credit card: Best (chargeback protection if scammed)
- ✅ Wise/PayPal: Acceptable for international payments
- ⚠️ Cash: Get detailed receipt, risky but common in Paraguay
- ❌ Western Union: Red flag (untraceable, scammer favorite)
- ❌ Cryptocurrency: Red flag (irreversible, no buyer protection)
⚠️ NEVER Pay 100% Upfront
If agent demands 100% payment before filing, WALK AWAY. This is the #1 scam red flag. Legitimate providers accept milestone payments.
Get Everything in Writing
Your contract should specify:
- Total cost (not to exceed $X)
- Payment schedule (25/50/25 or similar)
- What's included and excluded
- Timeline estimate (with caveat for Migraciones delays)
- Refund policy (conditions for partial/full refund)
- What happens if denied
- Agent's responsibilities and your responsibilities
Red Flags to Watch For
Run from any provider exhibiting these warning signs:
🚩 Critical Red Flags (Deal Breakers)
- ❌ Demands 100% payment upfront
- ❌ No physical office / won't meet in person
- ❌ Can't name their Migraciones lawyer
- ❌ Price under $1,000 total
- ❌ Guarantees approval (no one can)
- ❌ Promises 30-day completion
- ❌ Won't provide written contract
- ❌ No client references or testimonials
- ❌ Only accepts Western Union or crypto
- ❌ High-pressure sales tactics
If you see even ONE of these, don't hire them.
⚠️ Yellow Flags (Caution, Investigate Further)
- ⚠️ Brand new (less than 6 months in business)
- ⚠️ No online presence (website, social media)
- ⚠️ Won't itemize costs
- ⚠️ Slow to respond (3+ days)
- ⚠️ Vague on process details
- ⚠️ Mixed reviews (some good, some terrible)
- ⚠️ Price significantly above market (>$5,000)
- ⚠️ Reluctant to provide references
Investigate these. May be fine, or may be problems.
See our full Avoiding Scams Guide for detailed scam analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I really need an agent, or can I do it myself?
You CAN do it yourself (DIY costs $500-900). However, most foreigners benefit from hiring an agent ($1,800-3,500) due to language barrier, time savings, and mistake avoidance. If you speak Spanish and have 3-4 months to navigate bureaucracy, DIY is viable. Otherwise, hire help.
2. What's a fair price?
$1,800-$3,500 total for full-service agent with English support (includes government fees, translations, and service fee). Under $1,000 is suspiciously low. Over $5,000 is overpriced unless includes major extras like relocation services.
3. Should I pay 100% upfront?
NO. Never. Legitimate agents accept milestone payments (typically 25% deposit, 50% at filing, 25% at completion). 100% upfront is red flag for Phantom Agent scam.
4. How do I verify an agent is legitimate?
Use our 6-point evaluation: (1) Physical office you can visit, (2) 2+ years track record, (3) Transparent itemized pricing, (4) Client references and reviews, (5) Responsive communication, (6) Realistic expectations. Ask the 15 questions from our checklist. If they can't answer clearly or won't meet in person, walk away.
5. What should be included in the service fee?
Full-service should include: document review, bank accompaniment, translation coordination, Migraciones filing, application tracking, carnet collection, cédula application and collection, and certificate pickup. NOT usually included: apostilles (you do in home country), housing search, express processing (doesn't exist).
6. What's the difference between a facilitator, agent, and lawyer?
Lawyer: Licensed attorney who files with Migraciones on your behalf (required for the filing). Facilitator/Agent: Coordinator who manages process and works with lawyer. Many providers are facilitators who partner with Migraciones lawyers. Either can be legitimate; verify they have actual lawyer they work with.
Ready to Work with a Transparent Provider?
We practice what we preach: itemized pricing, milestone payments, physical office, client references, and honest timelines.
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