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Document Checklist for Paraguay Residency

5 min read · Updated Jun 10, 2026

Complete list of every document you need to gather, apostille, and translate before your in-country filing trip.

This checklist covers every document required for Paraguay temporary residency. Check each one off as you prepare — missing anything on filing day means rescheduling your trip.

Document checklist at a glance

DetailSummary
Core documents from home countryPassport, birth certificate, police certificate
ApostilleRequired on foreign public documents (varies by nationality)
Certified Spanish translationRequired on all foreign documents in the file
Handled in ParaguayMedical exam, local police cert, biometrics, INTERPOL
Police certificate validity~90 days from filing date
Prep lead time4–8 weeks (apostille is the variable)

What this guide covers

A complete checklist for Paraguay temporary residency — what to gather remotely, what needs apostille and translation, and what you complete during your in-country visit. Pair it with the residency guide for eligibility and timeline, and the cost breakdown for budget planning.

Required Documents

1. Criminal Background Check

What it is: An official criminal record check from your country's federal law enforcement agency.

By country:

  • 🇺🇸 USA → FBI Identity History Summary (Identity.ic.fbi.gov)
  • 🇬🇧 UK → ACRO Police Certificate (acro.police.uk)
  • 🇨🇦 Canada → RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check
  • 🇩🇪 Germany → Führungszeugnis (Bundesamt für Justiz)
  • 🇦🇺 Australia → National Police Certificate (AFP)
  • Other countries → Contact your national police authority

Processing time: 2–8 weeks depending on country
Validity: Must be issued within 90 days of your Paraguay filing date
Apostille: Required
Translation: Required (certified Spanish translation)

Tip: Request multiple certified copies. You may need extras for banking or other processes.

2. Birth Certificate

What it is: Official birth certificate from the country/state where you were born.

Source: Vital records office of your birth country/state/province.

Apostille: Required
Translation: Required (certified Spanish translation)

Note: Some countries issue birth certificates with limited validity. Check that yours is a current official copy, not an old photocopy.

3. Valid Passport

Requirements:

  • At least 6 months validity remaining at time of filing
  • All pages with stamps/visas should be photocopied
  • Notarized copy required for filing

What to bring to Asunción:

  • Original passport (returned to you)
  • 2 certified copies

4. Proof of Income / Financial Means

What Paraguay requires: Evidence that you can support yourself financially without needing local employment.

Accepted documents (choose what applies):

  • Bank statements (last 3–6 months showing regular income)
  • Employment contract from a foreign employer
  • Freelance contracts or client invoices (last 3–6 months)
  • Retirement/pension award letter + statements
  • Investment portfolio statements

Apostille: Not always required for bank statements, but notarization may help
Translation: Required

5. Passport-Size Photos

  • Quantity: 4–6 photos
  • Spec: White background, recent (within 3 months), 3.5cm × 4.5cm
  • Can be taken at any photo shop in Asunción the morning of your appointment

Optional but Recommended

Proof of Address in Paraguay

If you have arranged temporary accommodation in Asunción (hotel or rental), having a printed confirmation helps. Some attorneys request this.

Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

If filing jointly with a spouse, include an apostilled marriage certificate.

Document Preparation Timeline

TaskWeeks Before Filing
Order criminal background check8 weeks
Order birth certificate6 weeks
Get apostilles4 weeks
Commission translations3 weeks
Prepare income documentation2 weeks
Gather passport photos1 week
Final review with attorney1 week

Apostille vs. Notarization: What's the Difference?

Apostille: An international certification issued by a government authority confirming that a document is authentic. Required for documents used in Hague Convention member states (Paraguay is a member).

Notarization: A notary public's certification that a signature or copy is genuine. A different level of certification — sometimes required in addition to an apostille.

When in doubt, apostille everything.

FAQ

Do I need an apostille on every document?

Apostille every foreign public document used in the filing — typically your police certificate and birth certificate. When in doubt, apostille it. Some Latin American civil documents are accepted without apostille; your attorney confirms per nationality.

How recent must my police certificate be?

Generally within 90 days of your Paraguay filing date. Order the background check early, then time apostille and translation so nothing expires before your trip.

Who can certify Spanish translations?

Translations must be done by a translator accepted for Paraguayan immigration purposes. Fast Lane includes coordination; DIY filers should confirm acceptance with their attorney before commissioning work.

Which documents are handled in Paraguay?

Local police certificate, medical exam, biometrics, and INTERPOL check are completed during your in-country visit — you do not need to bring those from home.

What changes if I apply with a spouse?

Add an apostilled marriage certificate and duplicate the personal document set for your spouse. Each applicant needs their own police certificate and birth certificate.

Can HowToParaguay manage the checklist for me?

Yes — Fast Lane includes a nationality-specific audit and tracking through our onboarding flow. This checklist is the reference; we mark what applies to your file.

Related guides

This is process information, not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for matters specific to your situation.

This content is for general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. HowToParaguay is a service coordination platform — not a law firm, tax advisor, or fiduciary. Consult qualified professionals before acting. See our Terms of service.

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Document Checklist for Paraguay Residency | How to Paraguay