Work Visa in Paraguay

By EasyCo Updated October 10, 2026

Paraguay does not issue a separate “work visa” for most foreigners. The right to work comes with residence: under Migration Law 6984/2022, a foreigner with temporary or permanent residence can live, study and work legally in the country. This guide explains the routes, the documents and what employers need to do.

The main routes

Temporary residence (general route). For foreigners of any nationality who come to Paraguay to carry out a lawful activity. It is granted for up to 2 years, can be extended once for the same period, and is the step before permanent residence.
MERCOSUR residence. Nationals of MERCOSUR member and associated states apply under the MERCOSUR Residence Agreement, with fewer requirements.
Permanent residence. Available after temporary residence, under the conditions set by the National Directorate of Migration (DNM).

Some nationalities need a consular visa to enter Paraguay first; check with the Paraguayan consulate before travelling.

Documents for temporary residence

A valid passport or national ID, and proof of entry into Paraguay
A birth certificate, and a marriage certificate if applicable
A criminal record certificate from your country of origin, or of residence over the last 3 years, legalized or apostilled
An INTERPOL certificate and a police certificate for foreigners, issued in Paraguay
Sworn statements on the activity you will carry out and your address in Paraguay
Payment of the migration fee

Documents not in Spanish must be translated by a registered translator. Once residence is granted, you can apply for the Paraguayan ID card (cédula), valid for the same period. See how to get your Paraguayan temporary ID (cédula).

What the employer needs

A Paraguayan company or branch registered with the tax authority (DNIT) and the social security institute (IPS)
A written employment contract under the Labor Code, registered with the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security (MTESS)
IPS registration of the employee and monthly contributions, plus the year-end bonus (aguinaldo)

If you do not have a company yet, see how to set up a company in Paraguay or how to hire through an employer of record.

Living and working in Paraguay

Spanish and Guaraní are both official languages, and Spanish is used in business and government. Asunción, Ciudad del Este and Encarnación are the main business centres.

Get help from Easyco

Easyco coordinates the company setup in Paraguay up to the issue of the RUC, and supports companies afterwards with tax, accounting, payroll and company compliance, including a registered office address. Contact us to discuss your project.