By the end of this guide, you’ll understand Paraguay’s standard visa requirements, application steps, special-case rules for minors and diplomats, plus insider tips like visa-on-arrival options and departure-tax details you won’t find elsewhere.

Standard Paraguay Tourist Visa Requirements

When you apply for a Paraguay Tourist Visa, you must submit:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay (U.S. Department of State: Paraguay entry requirements)
• Completed visa application form and two recent passport-size photos (Paraguay Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa instructions)
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements or pay stubs) (iVisa guide to Paraguay Tourist Visa requirements)
• Round-trip or onward travel ticket (VFS Global Paraguay visa appointment guidance)
• Visa fee payment receipt (Embassy of Paraguay visa fee information)
• Letter stating your travel purpose (Visa policy of Paraguay – Tourist visa requirements on Wikipedia)
• Hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a Paraguayan host

Purpose Letter and Accommodation Proof

Your letter should explain why you’re visiting—tourism, visiting family or friends—and include your planned dates. If you’re staying with a resident, attach a signed invitation with their ID details.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process

Follow these steps to submit your application smoothly:

1. Select “Tourist Visa” on the consular website.
2. Fill out and print the form.
3. Gather all supporting documents.
4. Book an appointment at your nearest Paraguayan embassy or VFS Global center.
5. Pay the visa processing fee in local currency or by credit card.
6. Attend your appointment, submit documents, and provide biometrics.
7. Track application status online until you receive your passport with visa.

“Submitting complete and accurate paperwork is half the battle—missing a document can delay your visa for weeks.” – Consular Affairs Officer, Embassy of Paraguay

Visa-on-Arrival and Visa-Free Entry

Paraguay’s visa policy offers perks to citizens of select countries:

• Visa-on-arrival for nationals of Russia, China, and several African countries (Henley Passport Index: visa-on-arrival privileges in Paraguay)
• U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Taiwan used to enjoy visa-on-arrival until 2021; now they must apply in advance
• Citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay and Peru enter with just a national ID under bilateral agreements

Bullet list of major visa-free nationals:
– EU Schengen states
– South American neighbors (ID entry)
– Japan, South Korea

Special Circumstances and Additional Requirements

Traveling with Minors

If you travel with children under 18 and one parent is absent, you need a notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent (UK Government child travel consent guidance).

Diplomatic and Official Passports

Holders of diplomatic or official passports from China, India, and certain other nations are exempt from tourist visa requirements.

Airport Departure Tax

When you leave Paraguay by air, an exit tax of around USD 20 is charged if not included in your ticket.

Health-Related Entry Rules

There are currently no HIV/AIDS or other disease-based entry restrictions for travelers to Paraguay.

Presenting Previous Visas

If you hold recent visas from the U.S., Schengen Area or Canada, some embassies request copies as part of your application.

Insider Bonus Tips

• Paraguay is often called South America’s “hidden jewel” for its subtropical forests and unique wildlife—pack eco-friendly gear to explore the Chaco region (World Wildlife Fund: Gran Chaco ecoregion).
• Visa rules can change without notice; always check official embassy updates at least two weeks before you apply.
• Dual nationals should use their Paraguayan passport to enter and exit to avoid entry-exit record complications.
• Paraguay is a party to The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction—carry proof of guardianship if you travel with minors who have dual citizenship (Hague Conference on Private International Law: Convention text).

Ready for Your Paraguayan Adventure?

With all requirements, exceptions and insider tips in hand, you’re set to secure your Paraguay Tourist Visa and explore one of South America’s most underrated destinations. Keep this guide handy, double-check the latest embassy notices, and prepare for an unforgettable trip.

Safe travels!