Asuncion Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Asunción, the capital of Paraguay, welcomes international travelers through Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU), the country's main gateway. Paraguay maintains a relatively open visa policy, allowing citizens from most Western countries, South American nations, and many other countries to enter without a visa for tourism purposes. The entry process is generally straightforward, with standard immigration and customs procedures similar to other South American destinations. Upon arrival at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport, travelers will proceed through immigration control where officers will verify travel documents, stamp passports, and may ask basic questions about the purpose and duration of stay. After clearing immigration, travelers collect their luggage and pass through customs inspection. Paraguay's immigration authorities are generally efficient, though lines can be longer during peak travel times. It's essential to have all required documentation ready and ensure your passport has sufficient validity. Before traveling to Asunción, visitors should verify current entry requirements with official Paraguayan government sources or their nearest Paraguayan embassy or consulate. Entry requirements can change, and individual circumstances may affect eligibility for visa-free entry. Travelers should also check health requirements, including any vaccination certificates that may be needed, and ensure they have appropriate travel insurance for their stay in Paraguay.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Paraguay offers visa-free entry to citizens of most countries in the Americas, Western Europe, and many other nations. The visa policy is designed to facilitate tourism and business travel while maintaining border security.

Visa-Free Entry

90 days within a 180-day period (some countries may have different allowances)

Citizens of these countries can enter Paraguay without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

All European Union member states United States Canada United Kingdom Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Israel Switzerland Norway All South American countries (MERCOSUR and associated states) Mexico Panama Costa Rica South Africa Turkey United Arab Emirates Singapore Hong Kong Malaysia

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Some nationalities may receive different durations of stay. Citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay can enter with national ID cards only (no passport required). Always confirm current requirements before travel.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type, typically 90 days for tourist visas

Citizens of countries not on the visa-free list must obtain a visa before traveling to Paraguay

How to Apply: Applications must be submitted at a Paraguayan embassy or consulate in the applicant's country of residence. Required documents typically include: valid passport, completed application form, passport photos, proof of financial means, travel itinerary, and hotel reservations. Processing time is usually 5-15 business days but can vary.

Citizens of countries including China, India, Russia, and most African and Asian nations require a visa. Some nationalities may be eligible for visa on arrival in specific circumstances. Contact the nearest Paraguayan diplomatic mission for specific requirements.

Arrival Process

The entry process at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asunción is straightforward. Most travelers clear immigration and customs within 30-60 minutes, depending on flight arrivals and queue length.

Arrival and Disembarkation

After landing, follow signs to immigration (Migraciones). Ensure you have your passport, completed immigration form (if provided on the flight), and any required documentation ready.

Immigration Control

Present your passport and any supporting documents to the immigration officer. They will verify your documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with the permitted duration of stay. Keep this entry stamp as you'll need to show it when departing.

Baggage Claim

After clearing immigration, proceed to baggage claim to collect your luggage. Check flight information screens for your carousel number.

Customs Declaration

Before exiting the arrivals area, you may need to complete a customs declaration form if you have goods to declare. Proceed through the appropriate customs channel (red for goods to declare, green for nothing to declare).

Customs Inspection

Customs officers may inspect luggage randomly or if you've declared items. Be honest about what you're carrying. After clearing customs, you're free to exit to the arrivals hall.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Should have at least one blank page for entry stamp.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Paraguay, though not always checked. Immigration officers may request this to verify you don't intend to overstay.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying. May be requested but not always required.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay (credit cards, bank statements, cash). Rarely requested but advisable to have available.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Required if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country within the previous 90 days.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching the immigration counter to speed up the process

Be prepared to show proof of onward travel and accommodation, even if not always requested

Check your passport stamp carefully to verify the duration of stay granted matches what you're entitled to

Keep your entry stamp intact and legible - you'll need it when departing Paraguay

Declare all items that exceed duty-free allowances to avoid penalties

Have some local currency (Paraguayan Guaraní) or US dollars available for immediate expenses after arrival

Immigration forms are usually available in Spanish; if you don't speak Spanish, consider having translation assistance or filling it out on the plane with help from crew

Take a photo of your passport and entry stamp as backup documentation

Customs & Duty-Free

Paraguay's customs regulations are designed to prevent illegal importation of goods while allowing reasonable personal items for travelers. All arriving passengers must pass through customs control, and random inspections are common.

Alcohol

2 liters of alcoholic beverages

Must be 18 years or older. Bottles must be sealed and for personal consumption only.

Tobacco

400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 500 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only.

Currency

Amounts exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Both foreign and local currency must be declared if exceeding this threshold. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and new goods up to USD 1,000 in value

Used personal items are generally exempt. New items exceeding this value may be subject to duties. Electronics and cameras for personal use are typically allowed.

Perfume

Reasonable quantities for personal use

Typically interpreted as 2-3 bottles for personal consumption.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strictly prohibited with severe penalties including imprisonment
Firearms and ammunition - unless proper import permits obtained in advance
Explosives and fireworks - prohibited for safety reasons
Counterfeit goods and pirated media - violates intellectual property laws
Certain fresh foods and agricultural products - to prevent introduction of pests and diseases
Pornographic materials - prohibited under Paraguayan law
Endangered species products - including ivory, certain animal skins, and protected plants (CITES regulations apply)

Restricted Items

Medications - Bring prescription medications in original packaging with doctor's prescription. Quantities should be reasonable for personal use during stay
Plants and seeds - Require phytosanitary certificates and import permits from agricultural authorities
Live animals and animal products - Require veterinary certificates and import permits. See special situations for pets
Drones and radio equipment - May require authorization from telecommunications authority (CONATEL)
Professional equipment - Cameras, video equipment, laptops for professional use may need temporary import documentation (ATA Carnet)
Food products - Some processed foods allowed in small quantities for personal consumption; fresh produce generally restricted

Health Requirements

Paraguay has specific health requirements for entering travelers, primarily focused on preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Health requirements should be verified before travel as they can change based on global health situations.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country within 90 days prior to arrival. Endemic countries include most of tropical South America and sub-Saharan Africa. A valid International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) must be presented.

Recommended Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Recommended for all travelers as parts of Paraguay have yellow fever transmission risk
Hepatitis A - Recommended for most travelers due to potential food and water contamination
Typhoid - Recommended for travelers who may eat outside of major hotels and restaurants
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have medical procedures or intimate contact
Rabies - Recommended for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or animal contact
Routine vaccinations - Ensure up to date with MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, and influenza

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Paraguay's public healthcare system has limited resources, and private medical facilities may require upfront payment or proof of insurance. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation and repatriation. Some insurance policies exclude certain activities; verify coverage for any adventure activities planned.

Current Health Requirements: Check current COVID-19 and other health-related entry requirements before traveling, as these can change rapidly. Visit the Paraguayan Ministry of Public Health website or contact your nearest Paraguayan embassy for the latest information. Some requirements that have been in effect include health declarations, vaccination certificates, or testing requirements. Travelers should also monitor for any disease outbreaks or health advisories issued for Paraguay.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Asunción for citizen services and emergencies

Most embassies are located in the Villa Morra and Manorá neighborhoods. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure for contact details and register your travel if available.

Immigration Authority - Dirección General de Migraciones

Official immigration office for visa extensions, residency inquiries, and immigration matters

Located in Asunción. Website: www.migraciones.gov.py (Spanish only). For visa questions and extensions of stay.

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

National emergency number for all services. Tourist Police (Policía Turística): +595 21 415 073. English may be limited; have Spanish speaker assist if possible.

Airport Information

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU)

Airport information: +595 21 645 600. Located approximately 16 km from downtown Asunción.

Ministry of Public Health

For health-related inquiries and current health requirements

Website: www.mspbs.gov.py - Check for current vaccination requirements and health advisories

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Minors (under 18) traveling to Paraguay must carry a valid passport. If traveling with only one parent or with neither parent, additional documentation is required: a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the trip, including travel dates and destinations. This letter should be in Spanish or accompanied by a certified translation. For unaccompanied minors, airlines have specific policies and may require additional forms. If the child has a different surname from the accompanying adult, bring proof of relationship (birth certificate). Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documentation. These requirements are strictly enforced to prevent child abduction.

Traveling with Pets

Pets (dogs and cats) can be brought into Paraguay with proper documentation. Required: International Health Certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, stating the animal is healthy and fit to travel. Rabies vaccination certificate showing vaccination at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival. Import permit from SENACSA (National Animal Health and Quality Service) - apply in advance. Microchip identification recommended. Pets must enter through designated ports of entry. Some airlines have additional requirements and restrictions. Contact SENACSA (www.senacsa.gov.py) at least 30 days before travel. Other animals may have different requirements or may be prohibited.

Extended Stays

Tourist visa-free entry typically allows 90 days. For stays beyond the authorized period, you must apply for an extension at the Dirección General de Migraciones before your authorized stay expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and may require proof of financial means, accommodation, and valid reasons for extension. Overstaying your authorized period can result in fines (approximately USD 5-10 per day), detention, deportation, and future entry bans. For longer stays, consider applying for temporary residency if you qualify (work, study, family ties, retirement). Temporary residency applications are processed through Migraciones and require extensive documentation. Business travelers needing extended stays should consult with their company's legal department or immigration attorney. Border runs (exiting and re-entering to reset the 90-day clock) are technically possible but may raise suspicion if done repeatedly.

Business Travelers

Business visitors from visa-free countries can enter on tourist status for business meetings, conferences, and negotiations without a work visa, provided they're not receiving payment from Paraguayan sources or engaging in direct employment. Carry documentation supporting your business purpose: invitation letter from Paraguayan company, conference registration, business cards. For work assignments or receiving local payment, a work visa and temporary residency are required before starting employment. Professional equipment may need temporary import documentation (ATA Carnet). Business visa requirements vary by nationality; check with the nearest Paraguayan consulate.

Students and Researchers

Students planning to study in Paraguay need to enter on a tourist visa initially, then apply for student temporary residency through Migraciones. Required documents include acceptance letter from recognized educational institution, proof of financial means, police clearance certificate, birth certificate (all documents must be apostilled and translated to Spanish). Apply for residency change before tourist stay expires. Student residency is typically granted for the duration of the academic program. Researchers may need additional authorization from their host institution and relevant government ministries.