Visual Timeline
Phase 1: Document Preparation
2-4 weeksDone in your home country before traveling to Paraguay.
- • Obtain birth certificate (if needed)
- • Get police clearance certificate
- • Apostille all documents
- • Make certified passport copies
Phase 2: Travel & Application
3-5 daysYour required time physically in Paraguay.
- • Day 1: Arrive, document translation
- • Day 2: Migraciones application, biometrics
- • Day 3: Medical exam, photos, bank account
- • Day 4-5: Buffer for any issues, departure
Phase 3: Processing
30-45 daysYou can be anywhere in the world during this phase.
- • Background verification
- • Document review
- • Inter-agency checks
- • Approval decision
Phase 4: Cédula Issuance
1-2 weeksOnce approved, your Cédula is produced.
- • Card production
- • Pickup in Asunción OR
- • Courier delivery (if arranged)
- • You're officially a resident!
Cédula Pickup Options
Phase-by-Phase Details
Phase 1: Document Preparation (2-4 weeks)
This phase takes place in your home country. The timeline depends on your country's processing speeds for apostilles and police clearances.
| Task | Typical Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Birth certificate | 1-2 weeks | If you need a new copy |
| Police clearance | 1-4 weeks | Varies significantly by country |
| Apostilles | 1-2 weeks | Can often be done simultaneously |
Phase 2: In-Country Application (3-5 days)
This is your required time physically in Paraguay. We handle all logistics and accompany you to appointments.
| Day | Activities | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival, document translation, orientation | Half day |
| Day 2 | Migraciones: application, biometrics, fees | Full morning |
| Day 3 | Medical exam, passport photos, bank account | Half day |
| Day 4-5 | Buffer for any issues, departure | Flexible |
MERCOSUR Fast-Track
Citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia
MERCOSUR nationals benefit from streamlined processing under regional agreements:
- • Total timeline: 30-45 days (vs 60-90 for others)
- • Reduced documents: Fewer apostille requirements
- • Faster processing: Priority handling at Migraciones
- • Lower costs: Reduced service fees
Common Delay Factors
What Causes Delays
- • Apostille backlogs in home country
- • Missing or incorrect documents
- • Paraguay holidays (many in December)
- • Staff changes at Migraciones
- • Translation errors requiring corrections
How to Avoid Delays
- • Start document prep early
- • Double-check all spelling and dates
- • Avoid December/January travel
- • Use experienced local support
- • Bring extra passport photos
Best Months to Apply
FAQ
How long does Paraguay residency take?
Total timeline is 60-90 days from document submission to receiving your Cédula. This breaks down as: 2-4 weeks document preparation, 3-5 days in Paraguay for application, 30-45 days processing, and 1-2 weeks for Cédula issuance.
How long do I need to stay in Paraguay?
You need to be in Paraguay for approximately 3-5 days for the application process. This includes biometrics, document submission, medical exam, and banking. After that, you can leave while processing continues.
Can the process be expedited?
Standard processing is 30-45 days. Expedited processing is sometimes available but savings are typically 1-2 weeks at most. Rush processing is not reliable—plan for the standard timeline.
What if there are delays?
Delays usually occur in: document preparation (apostille backlogs in your home country), translation (busy periods in Paraguay), or government processing (holidays, staff changes). Build buffer time into your planning.
Is the timeline different for MERCOSUR nationals?
Yes. Citizens of MERCOSUR countries (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia) have a streamlined process. Timeline can be as fast as 30-45 days total, with reduced documentation requirements.