Good News for British Citizens
UK-Specific Requirements
ACRO Police Certificate (Not DBS)
Paraguay requires an ACRO Police Certificate—not a DBS check. This is the most common mistake UK applicants make.
How to obtain:
- • Apply at acro.police.uk
- • Standard: £55 (10-15 working days)
- • Urgent: £95 (2-3 working days)
- • Select "Paraguay" as destination country
FCDO Apostille
Both your ACRO certificate and birth certificate need FCDO apostilles. This authenticates them for use abroad.
How to obtain:
- • Apply through official FCDO service or legalisation agent
- • Standard service: ~2 weeks, £75/document
- • Premium service: next-day, additional fee
- • Both documents must be apostilled
UK Birth Certificate
You need a full birth certificate (not short form). Order from the General Register Office if needed. Processing takes about 2 weeks, then add time for apostille.
Important: Document Order
UK Tax Considerations
Understanding Your UK Tax Status
Paraguay residency alone does not change your UK tax status. Your UK tax obligations depend on:
- • The Statutory Residence Test: Your physical presence in the UK determines if you're a UK tax resident
- • UK-Sourced Income: Income from UK sources (rental, pension, employment) remains subject to UK tax
- • Split Year Treatment: If you're leaving the UK mid-year, you may qualify for split year treatment
What Paraguay Offers UK Citizens
- ✓ 0% tax on foreign income under Paraguay's territorial system
- ✓ UK pensions taxed only in UK - Paraguay doesn't tax them
- ✓ Remote work income tax-free if clients are overseas
- ✓ Investment income from foreign sources untaxed
Estimated Costs for UK Citizens
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Service package (Essential-Premium) | $2,290 - $4,495 |
| ACRO certificate | £55 - £95 |
| FCDO apostilles (x2) | ~£150 |
| Full birth certificate (if needed) | ~£11 |
| Flight to Asunción (return) | £800 - £1,500 |
| Accommodation (5-7 days) | £300 - £600 |
| Total Estimate | £3,500 - £5,500 |
FAQ for UK Citizens
Do I need a visa to enter Paraguay?
No. UK citizens can enter Paraguay visa-free for up to 90 days. You enter as a tourist and apply for residency while there.
Can I use my DBS check instead of ACRO?
No. Paraguay specifically requires an ACRO Police Certificate. A DBS check (Basic, Standard, or Enhanced) will not be accepted.
How long does the FCDO apostille take?
Standard service takes approximately 2 weeks. Premium service (£75/document) offers next-day dispatch.
Will I lose my British citizenship?
No. Paraguay explicitly allows dual citizenship, and the UK permits citizens to hold multiple nationalities.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
No language requirement for residency. Basic Spanish is only needed if you later apply for citizenship.
Can my spouse and children apply with me?
Yes. Spouse and dependent children can apply together with their own documents.
What about my UK pension?
Your UK pensions remain taxable only in the UK. Paraguay does not tax foreign-sourced income.
Do I need to move to Paraguay?
No. There is no minimum stay requirement. For permanent residency, one visit every three years is sufficient.
What if I have a criminal record?
Minor offences often don't prevent residency approval. Serious convictions may cause issues. Consult with us for case-specific advice.
How do I transfer money to Paraguay?
Standard methods include Wise (formerly TransferWise), bank wire transfers, and other remittance services.
Can I work in Paraguay?
Residency gives you the legal right to work. For remote work serving foreign clients, no additional permits are needed.
What about healthcare?
Most expats use private healthcare, which is very affordable by UK standards. Specialist visits typically cost $50-100.
How does this affect my UK tax status?
Paraguay residency alone does not change your UK tax status. That depends on your physical presence in the UK under the Statutory Residence Test.