Imagine a passport that opens doors to more than 140 countries worldwide without visas, allows you to obtain a 5-year work visa to the USA, and grants the right to a 10% income tax. Sounds like a fairy tale? This is the reality of Paraguay citizenship for Russians in 2026.
What Paraguay Passport Offers: 7 Key Benefits
1. Freedom of Movement Worldwide
Paraguay passport holders travel visa-free to 142 countries, including the entire Schengen zone, United Kingdom, South Korea, and Singapore. This ranks 23rd in the global passport strength index.
2. Path to American Dream Through E-2 Visa
Unique opportunity: after 3 years of living in Paraguay with permanent residency, you can obtain a 5-year E-2 work visa to the USA. Requires investment from $200,000 in an American business.
3. Tropical Paradise for Living
16 national parks, tropical forests, and pink lapacho — a tree that blooms like cherry blossoms from July to September. Average temperature +25°C year-round, winter doesn't drop below +10°C.
4. Access to Social Benefits
5. Tax Haven with 10% Rate
Revolutionary tax system:
- 10% income tax
- 10% corporate tax
- 10% VAT
- No taxes on property, capital gains, inheritance
- Exemption from worldwide income tax when residing 120+ days per year
Learn more about Paraguay's tax system for expats.
6. Business Opportunities in MERCOSUR
Paraguay is part of the MERCOSUR economic community with Argentina, Brazil, Venezuela, and Uruguay. Zero customs duties between countries open huge business opportunities.
7. Fast Track to Passport — Just 4 Years
Unlike most countries where naturalization takes 8-10 years, Paraguay's process takes minimum 4 years:
- 2 years with temporary residency
- 2 years with permanent residency
- Application for citizenship
How to Get Paraguay Citizenship: Step-by-Step Plan for 2026
Stage 1: Temporary Residency (ВНЖ)
Requirements:
- Age 18+
- Clean criminal record
- €5,000 in bank account
- Medical certificate showing no serious illnesses
Process:
- Document preparation (3-4 weeks) — collection, Spanish translation, apostille
- Application submission in Paraguay (3-4 months) — at Migration Department
- Obtaining Cedula (up to 6 months) — ID card + biometrics
Detailed process described in step-by-step residency guide.
Stage 2: Permanent Residency (ПМЖ)
After 2 years with temporary residency, you can apply for permanent residency. Requirements are almost the same, plus:
- Temporary residency card
- Cedula
- Certificate of €5,000 in account
Important: to maintain temporary residency, you must visit Paraguay at least once per year.
Compare requirements in the article temporary vs permanent residency.
Stage 3: Citizenship Application
After 2 years with permanent residency (total 4 years of residency), you can apply for citizenship.
Additional requirements:
- Living in the country minimum 3 years out of 4
- Spanish language knowledge (A1 level)
- Passing exam on Paraguay's history and culture
- Economic ties to the country (property/business/employment)
- Written promise to obey laws
Required documents:
- National and foreign passport
- Birth certificate
- Cedula and resident card
- Criminal background checks (from Russia and Paraguay)
- Interpol certificate
- Medical certificate from Paraguay private clinic
- Bank statement showing €5,000
- Government fee €260
Citizenship by Birth and Through Marriage
By jus soli principle (right of soil)
A child born in Paraguay automatically becomes a citizen regardless of parents' citizenship. Children of Paraguayans born abroad also receive citizenship.
Through marriage to Paraguayan
There's no direct path to citizenship through marriage. Spouses of Paraguay citizens can:
- Immediately get permanent residency (bypassing temporary)
- Apply for citizenship after 2 years with permanent residency + 1 year actual residence
Dual Citizenship and Restrictions
Important to know: Paraguay does not recognize dual citizenship with Russia. To obtain a Paraguayan passport, you must renounce Russian citizenship.
Exception: dual citizenship agreement with Spain.
Restrictions for naturalized citizens:
- Cannot work in police, courts, special services
- Ban on political career
- With dual citizenship (with Spain) — military service only in country of residence
Need personalized help?
Get expert guidance for your Paraguay relocation journey. Our team is here to help you with residency, business setup, real estate, and banking solutions.
Why You Might Be Refused or Lose Citizenship
Grounds for refusal:
- Not meeting residence time requirements
- Failing language or culture exams
- Lack of economic ties to the country
- Document problems
Citizenship revocation:
- Absence from country for more than 3 years
- Military service in another state
- Violating Paraguay laws
Note: citizenship by birth cannot be revoked.
Notifying Russian Ministry of Interior About Second Citizenship
According to the law of April 28, 2023, Russians must notify the Ministry of Interior about obtaining foreign residency or second citizenship within 60 days.
Notification methods:
- Through Gosuslugi
- In person at Ministry of Interior
- By mail
- At consulate abroad
Life in Paraguay: What to Expect
Cost of Living
- One person: €430/month (excluding rent)
- Family of 4: €1,425/month
- 1-bedroom rental: from €350 to €1,000
- Utilities: ~€50/month
Budget shopping options described in the guide to affordable supermarkets in Asunción.
Safety
Paraguay ranks 6th out of 44 countries in Latin America for safety according to the Global Peace Index. Standard precautions help avoid problems.
Detailed safety analysis in the article how safe is Paraguay.
Russian-Speaking Community
About 1,500 Russians live in Paraguay, mostly in Asunción. Streets and monuments are named after Russian heroes of the Bolivia-Paraguay War, including Comandante Belyaev Street in the capital.
Climate and Nature
- Tropical climate year-round
- Winter: June-September (+10°C minimum)
- Summer: December-February
- No sea access (beaches in neighboring Brazil/Argentina)
Climate change impact covered in the material about climate and Paraguay.
Alternative Opportunities in Paraguay
Cryptocurrencies and Mining
Paraguay is becoming an attractive destination for crypto enthusiasts thanks to cheap electricity and favorable legislation.
Details in guides:
Real Estate Construction
Many expats prefer to build their dream house in Paraguay instead of buying ready-made housing.
Banking Services for Expats
Banco Ueno offers special conditions for foreign residents.
Why Paraguay is the Best Choice for Second Citizenship
Paraguay is rightfully called South America's best kept secret. The country offers a unique combination of:
- Fast track to citizenship (4 years vs 8-10 in other countries)
- Tax advantages (10% vs 13-45% in most countries)
- Stability and safety
- Affordability of procedures and living
- Strategic location in South America
For those considering Paraguay as a nuclear safe haven and world war escape plan, it's one of the most reliable refuges on the planet.
Get Paraguay Citizenship with Expert Support
The path to a Paraguayan passport may seem complex, but with the right support, it becomes simple and predictable. Our team of experts will guide you through every stage — from initial consultation to obtaining your passport.
🚀 Get Free Consultation on Paraguay Citizenship
Don't postpone your second citizenship for later. In an unstable world, a Paraguay passport is your insurance for freedom, safety, and new opportunities. Start your citizenship journey today!
