Paraguay Visa Requirements For British Citizens (2025)

British citizens do not need a visa to visit Paraguay for tourism or business—you’re visa‑exempt for up to 90 days on arrival. This article explores what you need to know.

Paraguay Visa Requirements For British Citizens

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay (no extra months needed)
Immigration officers should stamp, date, and sign your passport upon arrival — especially important at land borders like Ciudad del Este. Traveling unstamped may result in fines when leaving

Visa‑free Details

No visa required for up to 90 days, extendable once for another 90 days (max 180 days in a 12‑month period) .
To extend your stay, you’ll need to apply through Paraguay’s Dirección General de Migraciones in Asunción

Additional Entry Requirements

Even though visa-free, you must still carry:

A valid passport (at least until you leave)
A return or onward ticket
Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement or credit card)

If traveling for business events, bring:

A letter from your company in Paraguay
If attending conferences, sports, etc., bring:
An invitation letter

Traveling with Children

If a minor travels alone or with only one parent, you’ll need a “Permiso del Menor”—a parental consent form, certified by the Paraguayan Embassy in the UK

Health Requirements

If your prior destination is a yellow fever‑risk country (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela), you’ll need a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon entry.
(Travelers coming from non–risk countries generally aren’t required to show documentation.)

Summary Table

Requirement	British Visitor
Visa	Not required for up to 90 days
Passport validity	Valid for stay
Entry stamp	Required
Extension	Up to +90 days (max 180 in 12 mo)
Return/onward ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Required
Yellow fever certificate	If arriving from risk area
Parental consent (minors)	Required if not with both parents

Tips Before You Go

Get your passport stamped on arrival—land borders can be inconsistent.
Bring documentation that proves accommodation and financial means.
If coming from a yellow-fever area, get vaccinated and carry your certificate—planes and land crossings may check.

Does British Citizens Needs Visa To Travel To Paraguay?

British citizens do not need a visa to travel to Paraguay for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days, granted upon arrival. You’ll receive the permission to stay when entering Paraguay

How Long Does It Takes For A British Citizen To Get Paraguayan Visa?

British citizens do not need a tourist visa to enter Paraguay. You’ll receive a 90-day entry permit upon arrival, which can be extended once for another 90 days (up to 180 days total within a 12‑month period)

Visas for Work, Study, or Other Purposes

If you plan to work, study, or stay longer, you’ll need to apply in advance:

Apply at the Paraguayan Embassy in the UK (London). Requirements include a completed application form, passport valid for at least six months, flight itinerary, proof of funds (bank statements or credit card), and in some cases an invitation or company letter .
Standard processing time is typically 5–15 business days, though it can occasionally extend up to 30 days, depending on circumstances and embassy workload
For countries with limited diplomatic ties, the processing may take 20–30 days

Summary for British Citizens

Purpose	Visa Requirement	Timing
Tourism/short stay (<90 days)	No visa needed	Entry permit on arrival
Work, study, business stay (>90 days)	Pre-arranged visa required	~5–15 business days (up to 30 in some cases)

What Do You Need As A British Citizen To Move To Paraguay

Moving to Paraguay as a British citizen can be a rewarding experience, especially for those seeking a slower pace of life, lower cost of living, and a warm climate. Known for its friendly locals, rich culture, and lush natural landscapes, Paraguay offers an intriguing mix of tradition and modernity.

Paraguay is a landlocked country in the heart of South America, bordered by Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia. It’s often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors, but this has allowed it to retain a strong cultural identity and relatively untouched landscapes. Life here moves at a slower pace compared to the UK. People are generally warm, welcoming, and take pride in their hospitality. British citizens who are used to hustle and tight schedules might find the laid-back Paraguayan lifestyle refreshing, though it may take some time to adjust.

The culture is a blend of indigenous Guaraní and Spanish influences, which are evident in the language, food, music, and customs. While Spanish is the main language, Guaraní is also widely spoken and recognized as an official language. Embracing the local language can significantly enhance your integration and social life.

One of the biggest draws for British citizens moving to Paraguay is the cost of living. Compared to the UK, prices are significantly lower. Rent, groceries, public transportation, and even dining out are all more affordable. In Asunción, the capital, you can find modern apartments at reasonable rates, while rural areas offer even greater savings.

Utilities and internet are relatively inexpensive, though in some rural areas, access might be limited or slower than what you’re used to in the UK. Healthcare is a mix of public and private services, with the private system offering better quality and faster access at a cost that is still affordable for most expats.

The local cuisine relies heavily on meat, corn, cheese, and root vegetables. Dishes like “sopa paraguaya” and “chipa” are traditional favorites. While international cuisine is available in larger cities, rural areas remain more traditional in their food offerings.

For British citizens looking to work in Paraguay, it’s worth noting that the economy is primarily based on agriculture, livestock, and small-scale industries. Job opportunities for foreigners can be limited unless you speak fluent Spanish or have specialized skills in demand. However, remote work is becoming increasingly popular, especially for digital nomads who bring their own income streams.

Another option is to start a business. Many expats find success in hospitality, tourism, English teaching, or import/export ventures. Paraguay is known for its low taxes and relaxed business environment, though navigating the local bureaucracy can be challenging without local guidance.

Real estate in Paraguay is generally affordable, and property ownership is open to foreigners. Many British expats choose to buy homes either in the capital or in smaller towns like Villarrica, San Bernardino, or Encarnación, which offer a quieter lifestyle with decent amenities.

Housing styles vary from modern apartments in the city to colonial-style houses and rural farms. It’s advisable to rent for a few months while getting to know the area before making any purchase decisions. Real estate agents can help with the search, though working with someone who speaks both English and Spanish is recommended to avoid misunderstandings.

If you’re moving with family, Paraguay offers both public and private education. Public schools may not meet the standards UK families are used to, especially in terms of facilities and teaching methods. However, there are several private and international schools, particularly in Asunción, that follow American or European curricula and offer English-language instruction.

For children, the slower pace of life and emphasis on community can be very beneficial. Families often enjoy spending time outdoors, whether it’s visiting nature reserves, rivers, or engaging in family-friendly cultural events.

The expat community in Paraguay is relatively small, which can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it means you’ll likely become part of a close-knit group quickly. On the other, you might need to make a more conscious effort to integrate with locals and overcome cultural differences.

Social activities often revolve around family gatherings, barbecues (asado), and festivals. Sports, especially football, are a big part of local life. British citizens who are open to learning the language and participating in local traditions often find themselves warmly welcomed.

Paraguay experiences a subtropical to tropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The eastern region is lush and green, while the western Chaco region is drier and more arid. The weather can be extreme at times, especially in summer when temperatures frequently climb above 35°C (95°F). It’s important to prepare for the heat and occasional flooding during the rainy season.

Nature lovers will enjoy Paraguay’s biodiversity. There are ample opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and exploring the countryside. Environmental awareness is growing, but infrastructure for ecotourism and conservation is still developing.

Conclusion

Relocating to Paraguay as a British citizen is more than just a geographical move—it’s a lifestyle change. It requires an open mind, patience, and a willingness to adapt. But in return, you’ll find a country that offers simplicity, affordability, and a chance to live life on your own terms. Whether you’re drawn by economic freedom, a desire for adventure, or simply a break from the usual path, Paraguay has the potential to offer a fulfilling new chapter