Exercise normal precautions in Paraguay. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Exercise increased caution in:
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Paraguay:
Departments of Amambay, Alto Paraná, Canindeyu, San Pedro, and Concepcion
Transnational criminal elements are active and engage in illicit trafficking of arms, narcotics, and goods in these departments, which are located along Paraguay’s northeastern border with Brazil. Police presence is limited.
U.S. government personnel must provide advance notice when traveling to these areas.
Must be valid at time of entry
One requested for entry stamp
Yes
None
None
None
1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue
Asunción, Paraguay
Telephone: +(595)(21) 213-715
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(595)(21) 229-581
Fax: +(595)(21) 228-603
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Paraguay for information on U.S. - Paraguayan relations.
A passport is required to enter Paraguay. U.S. citizens arriving by air may obtain a "visa en arribo" (visa on arrival) at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asuncion. This is a multiple entry visa with a validity of up to ten years. The current fee is $160, payable in U.S. dollars. Credit cards are not accepted. Border agents generally only accept crisp, new bills that are free of any ink marks, blots, or tears. If paying with $100 denomination bills, series CB and D are not accepted. If not arriving at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport, prior to traveling to Paraguay, you must apply for a visa in person or by secure messenger at the Paraguayan Embassy in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Paraguayan consulate, and pay the fee. Minor children may require a special notarized authorization from Paraguayan authorities to enter and exit the country, when not accompanied by both legal parents/guardians. For additional information regarding your situation and how to obtain this special permit, please visit the Embassy’s website.
To leave Paraguay by air, you must pay an airport departure tax. Some airlines include the Paraguayan airport departure tax in the cost of the airline ticket. It is recommended that you check with the airline in order to determine whether or not the departure tax has been included.
Visit the Embassy of Paraguay website for the most current visa information.
HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Paraguay.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Security Messages: Messages regarding demonstrations, strikes, and weather-related events are posted on the Embassy’s website.
Terrorism: The U.S. Embassy is not aware of any specific threat to U.S. citizens in Paraguay. Nevertheless, you should remain vigilant at all times while travelling.
Crime: Transnational criminal organizations facilitate the illicit trafficking of arms, narcotics, and other goods in Paraguay, particularly along Paraguay’s eastern border with Brazil, most prominently from Pedro Juan Caballero south to Ciudad del Este, including the Tri-Border Area of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina. Coupled with the lack of sufficient police enforcement, the involvement of these organizations heightens violent crime in these areas. The U.S. Embassy in Asuncion requires U.S. government personnel and their family members to provide advance notice and a travel itinerary when traveling outside of the capital, particularly when traveling to Ciudad del Este, or to the departments of San Pedro, Concepcion, Amambay, and Canindeyu.
In addition, several high profile kidnappings targeting the Paraguayan business community and their families have occurred in the interior of the country, particularly in the department of Concepcion. Three of five victims currently being held were kidnapped in the past twelve months. The government of Paraguay alleges that members of the Paraguayan People’s Army (Ejercito del Pueblo Paraguayo, or EPP), a small, armed military criminal group operating in the departments of San Pedro and Concepcion, are the perpetrators. These kidnappings are financially motivated, and kidnappers have generally selected targets based on their wealth and perceived willingness to pay ransom.
U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Paraguay should also avoid large gatherings or events where crowds have congregated to demonstrate, protest, or cause damage as a byproduct of celebrating an event, such as after soccer matches.
Street crime is prevalent in the cities and the number of pick pockets and armed assaults is increasing. Robbers are more regularly using motorcycles to suddenly approach victims with a weapon and demand a wallet or purse, before quickly fleeing.
Thieves have been known to pose as service people (e.g., mailmen, reporters, water meter readers, electrical repairmen, delivery persons, maintenance personnel) to gain access to your home. They sometimes wear uniforms and travel in vans and automobiles with markings that make the vehicle appear official. Do not let such people inside your residence unless you have contacted the service provider directly to verify the appointment.
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Victims of Crime:
U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the U.S. Embassy.
Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at (+595) 021-213-715 and press 2210 (Dial (+595) (21) 229 581 after hours).
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Paraguay are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report.
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Paraguay. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Paraguayan law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities in employment, education, access to health care, and the provision of state services, and the government seeks to enforce these prohibitions. Access to buildings, pedestrian paths, and transportation is extremely difficult for persons with disabilities, as mandated accessibility requirements exist but are rarely enforced.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of Paraguay to ensure the medication is legal in Paraguay. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor-issued written prescription.
The following diseases are prevalent:
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: U.S. citizens have been injured and killed in traffic accidents throughout Paraguay. Only minimal standards must be met to obtain a Paraguayan driver’s license, and a driver’s education prior to licensing is not common.
Traffic Laws: Drivers throughout Paraguay routinely ignore traffic regulations. No vehicle insurance is required, and many Paraguayans drive without insurance coverage.
Public Transportation: Public transportation is readily available for urban and intercity travel. Buses vary in maintenance conditions and may not meet U.S. safety standards. Taxis are available and may be called using telephone numbers listed in newspapers. No passenger train service exists. Bicycle travel may not be safe because of traffic and other road hazards.
Most urban streets consist of cobblestones over dirt. Nearly all rural roads are unpaved, and during rainy periods and the rainy season (November-April), they may be impassable. Driving or traveling at night is not advisable outside of Asuncion, due to the presence of pedestrians, animals, or vehicles without proper lighting on the roads.
See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Paraguay’s national tourist office and national authorityresponsible for road safety. The Touring and Automobile Club provides some roadside assistance to its members. The club may be contacted in Asuncion by visiting its offices at 25 de Mayo near Avenida Brazil or by calling 210-550 to 210-553. Intercity highway maintenance is not equal to U.S. standards. The privately maintained toll road between Caaguazu and Ciudad del Este and the routes between Asuncion and Encarnacion and Asuncion and Pedro Juan Caballero are in general good condition. The Trans-Chaco route is in fair condition except for the portion between Mariscal Estigarribia and the Bolivian border, which is unpaved and at times impassable.
Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Paraguay, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Paraguay’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue
Asunción, Paraguay
Telephone: +(595)(21) 213-715
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(595)(21) 229-581
Fax: +(595)(21) 228-603
None.
Paraguay is not a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. But see, Paraguay’s response to the 2008 Hague Conference on Private International Law questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Service Convention. The United States and Paraguay are parties to the Inter-American Convention on Letters Rogatory and Additional Protocol. The U.S. Central Authority for the treaty is the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Division, Office of Foreign Litigation, Washington, D.C. Requests for service under the Inter-American Convention on Letters Rogatory and Additional Protocol may be sent to the U.S. Department of Justice's contractor, Process Forwarding International (PFI), for transmittal to the Brazilian Central Authority.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
Paraguay is NOT a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters.
Attorneys from the United States should contact local counsel to determine the availability of particular procedures. If depositions taken at the U.S. Embassy are permitted under local law, attorneys should contact the U.S. Embassy in Asuncion to make arrangements.
Paraguay is not a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. Documents issued in the United States may be authenticated for use in Paraguay by (a) contacting the U.S. Department of State Authentications Office and (b) then having the seal of the U.S. Department of State authenticated by the Embassy of Paraguay in Washington, D.C. Documents issued in U.S. states must first be authenticated by the designated state authority, generally the state Secretary of State.
1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue
Asunción, Paraguay
Telephone: +(595)(21) 213-715
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(595)(21) 229-581
Fax: +(595)(21) 228-603
Paraguay and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since January 1, 2008.
For information concerning travel to Paraguay, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Paraguay.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children's Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Paraguay. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Website
The Paraguayan Central Authority for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Secretaría Nacional de la Niñez y la Adolescencia (SNNA). SNNA’s role is to perform the duties given to central authorities under the Hague Abduction Convention, including processing Hague Abduction Convention applications for return of and access to children.
They can be reached at:
Dirección de Restitución Internacional
Secretaría Nacional de la Niñez y la Adolescencia
Avenida Mariscal López Nº 1662 e/ Rodó y Bernardino Caballero
Asuncion, Paraguay
Telephone: 595 (21) 207 166 / 595 981 255 291
E-mail: restitucion.internacional.py@gmail.com
Website
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Paraguay, the left-behind parent must submit a Hague application to the SNNA. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the SNNA, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are not fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or Paraguayan central authorities. Attorney fees, if necessary, are the sole responsibility of the person hiring the attorney. Additional costs may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in Paraguay. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Paraguay. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
Retaining a private attorney is not required in order to submit Hague Convention applications to a court in Paraguay. However, parents should consider hiring a private attorney to follow up on the case, to provide direct information to the court, and to generally advise as to the best course of action for their individual circumstances. A privately-hired attorney should contact the SNNA as soon as possible after the Hague Abduction Convention application has been filed. If a parent chooses to hire a private attorney, the SNNA will assist parents to find an attorney. Parents may also represent themselves if they choose.
The U.S. Embassy in Asuncion, Paraguay posts list of attorneys including those who specialize in family law.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the following persons or firms. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
The Paraguayan Central Authority does not have a formal mediation process to resolve international parental child abduction cases. However, the SNNA may discuss the possibility of voluntary return with the parties, which can result in an out-of-court resolution.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Paraguay is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore all adoptions between Paraguay and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention
Presently, intercountry adoptions are not allowed in Paraguay. Paraguayan law gives preference in adoption to Paraguayan citizens and legal permanent residents of Paraguay, and prospective adoptive parents must reside in Paraguay. Paraguayan government officials have to told the U.S. Embassy in Paraguay that should intercountry adoptions be permitted in the future, the government will only allow adoptions by citizens of countries that have ratified the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption (the Convention) and signed an agreement with the central governmental authority overseeing adoptions.
Note: Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. Learn more.
Adoption between the United States and Paraguay is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Paraguay, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more.
In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective adoptive parents, Paraguay also has the following requirements for prospective adoptive parents:
Because Paraguay is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Paraguay must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the Convention requires that Paraguay attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to Paraguay's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States.
Abandonment Requirements: No intercountry adoptions are permitted in Paraguay at this time. However, persons who meet the eligibility requirements listed above and who are interested in adopting a Paraguayan child must file an application form at the Adoption Center and provide the required documentation. After a review of their application and completion of a home study, the names of individuals approved to adopt are placed on a list of available parents.
When a child is abandoned or becomes an orphan, the Adoption Center is notified and must first attempt to find a relative to care for the child. If no relative can be found, the child remains under the authority of the Adoption Center until a judicial declaration is made that the child is adoptable. At that time, the court will usually release the child into the custody of the prospective adoptive parents until the final adoption decree is signed. A child is assigned to prospective parents based on the Adoption Center's judgment of the best interests of the child.
Centro de Adopciones (Adoption Center)
Because Paraguay is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Paraguay must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.
NOTE: If you filed your I-600a with Paraguay before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption. Your adoption could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. Learn more.
After this, your adoption service provider or you will submit a visa application for to a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy. The Consular Officer will review the child's information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities. If the Consular Office determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he/she will notify the COUNTRY's adoption authority (Article 5 letter). For Convention country adoptions, prospective adoptive parent(s) may not proceed with the adoption or obtain custody for the purpose of adoption until this takes place.
Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the adoption process.
The process for finalizing the adoption (or gaining legal custody) in Paraguay generally includes the following:
ADOPTION FEES: The U.S. Embassy in Paraguay discourages the payment of any fees that are not properly receipted, "donations," or "expediting" fees, that may be requested from prospective adoptive parents. Such fees have the appearance of "buying" a baby and put all future adoptions in Paraguay at risk.
The Adoption Center does not charge a fee. Attorneys assisting adopting parents set their own fees, which vary greatly.
In the adoption services contract that you sign at the beginning of the adoption process, your agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your adoption process.
Some of the fees specifically associated with adopting from Paraguay include:
NOTE: Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. Learn how .
Birth Certificate
You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.
Paraguayan Passport
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or Passport from Paraguay.
U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the United States Embassy for your child. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-800 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the "Panel Physician's" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
US citizens who adopted a Paraguayan child who was under the age of sixteen and has been in the legal custody of, and has resided with, the adopting parent(s) for at least two years, may file immigrant visa at the U.S. Embassy in Asuncion.
For additional information, e-mail questions to ConsularAsunci@state.gov
Note: Visa issuance after the final interview now generally takes at least 24 hours and it will not normally be possible to provide the visa to adoptive parents on the day of the interview. Adoptive parents should verify current processing times at the appropriate consulate or embassy before making final travel arrangements.
For adoptions finalized abroad: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to acquire American citizenship when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
For adoptions to be finalized in the United States: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to typically acquire American citizenship when the U.S. state court issues the final adoption decree. We urge your family to finalize the adoption in a U.S. State court as quickly as possible.
*Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.
Learn more about the Child Citizenship Act.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Paraguay. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.
To find information about obtaining a visa for Paraguay, see the Department of State's Country Specific Information.
Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.
The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in Paraguay, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Registration is free and can be done online.
What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
Here are some good places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S Embassy in Paraguay
1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue
Phone: (011-595-21) 213-715
Fax: (011-595-21) 213-728
Internet: py.usembassy.gov/
The Consular Section is open for U.S. citizen services, including registration, Monday through Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., except for U.S. and Paraguayan holidays.
Paraguay's Adoption Authority
Centro de Adopciones (Adoption Center)
Avenida Mariscal Lopez 1549 c/Pitiantuta, Asunción
Phone: 595-21-207-160
Hours: Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Embassy of Paraguay in the U.S.
2400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: (202) 483 6960
Fax: (202) 234 4508
Paraguay also has Consulates General in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York.
Office of Children's Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
E-mail: AskCI@state.gov
Internet: http://adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | N/A | N/A 3 |
| H-2B | None | N/A | N/A 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Available
Fees: There is no cost for a first time certificate. Renewals: Gs. 24,000 approximately. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Certificado del Acta de Nacimiento
Issuing Authority: Civil Registry (Dirección General del Registro del Estado Civil), Address: Ind. Nacional Y Manuel Dominguez, Asunción, Paraguay.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: records must include full name, parent's full names, date of birth and place where birth is registered. The certificates are issued on light blue paper.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Oficial del Registro del Estado Civil
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining:
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: A person who has been baptized in the Roman Catholic Church in Paraguay may have a Certificate of Baptism issued by Ecclesiastical Authorities. There may be a fee for this service Baptism certificates are acceptable as secondary proof only.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: No cost for first request. Renewals Gs. 24,000 approximately. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Certificado de Defunción
Issuing Authority: Dirección Del Registro Civil, Address: Ind. Nacional Y Manuel Dominguez, Asunción.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The certificates are issued on brown paper.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Oficial del Registro del Estado Civil.
Registration Criteria: The person registering the death must submit medical certificate, signature, hospital stamp, family registration booklet and national ID card (in case of being married), copy of the national ID from both (the deceased and the person who is declaring the death).
Procedure for Obtaining: Requests for certificates must include full name of decedent, date, and place of death.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Gs. 118.504 approximately. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Certificado del Acta de Matrimonio.
Issuing Authority: Dirección General del Registro del Estado Civil, Address: Concepción entre Lapacho y Cedro, Asunción.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The certificates are issue on light pink paper.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Oficial del Registro del Estado Civil.
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants must contact the Registro Civil to know the procedure for obtaining such documents.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: There is a cost for this service; however the cost varies.
Document Name:
Issuing Authority:
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format:
Issuing Authority Personnel Title:
Registration Criteria: Upon receiving the final divorce decree, the Civil Registry must register the divorce and they can issue the marriage certificate with the proper annotation.
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants must contact the Registro Civil to know the procedure for obtaining such documents.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: Should check with the Registro Civil
Available
Fees: There are no fees listed
Document Name: Adoption Certificate
Issuing Authority: Centro de Adopciones (Adoption Center)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Seal from Ministry of Children and Adolescents.
Registration Criteria: Paraguayan judge of the court of children and adolescents is the government entity that makes Hague Convention Article 4 determinations for adoptions. The Adoption Center within the Ministry of Children and Adolescents makes Hague Convention Article 5 determinations.
Procedure for Obtaining: Contact the Adoption Center
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are no available
Alternate Documents: See comment below
Exceptions: None
Comments: Adoptions can be formal or informal. If the adoption took place through the Central Adoption Authority, the child would have an adoption certificate. If the adoption was informal, a court order would be issued explaining the adoption process is final. Through either of these two processes, a child would be reissued a new birth certificate with their adoptive family’s name.
Available
Fees: - Gs. 8,500 for renewals. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Cédula de Identidad
Issuing Authority: Policía Nacional – Departamento de Identificaciones.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel
Registration Criteria: The expired ID card must be submitted
Procedure for Obtaining: There is no procedure for obtaining
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Gs. 19,600. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Certificado de Antecedentes
Issuing Authority: Policia Nacional – Departamento de Identificaciones
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: -The certificates are issued on yellow and green paper
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There are no specific issuing authority personnel
Registration Criteria: There are no specific registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining:
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: There are no fees listed
Document Name: Informe de Antecedentes Judiciales
Issuing Authority: Corte Suprema de Justicia, address Alonso y Testanova
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no specific issue authority
Registration Criteria: There are no specific registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: There is no specific procedure for obtaining
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available: Military Records are available to nationals who have rendered military service.
Fees: There may be a fee for this service.
Document Name: Libreta Del Servicio Militar (military service book).
Issuing Authority: Ayudantia General, Dirección Del Servicio De Reclutamiento Y Movilización, Avda. Eusebio Ayala Y Choferes Del Chaco, Asunción.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: This book contains a photograph and thumbprint of the bearer and describes his service record.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There are no specific issuing authority/personnel
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Only people physically present in Paraguay can obtain a military record. The applicant must provide full name, date and place of birth, military units and place of induction.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Types Available (Regular, Diplomatic, Official, etc.): Regular, Diplomatic, Official, and Consular
Fees: Depends on the type. For regular passports the price is three fees: Gs. 192,000 paid to Department of Identifications, National Police. Additionally Gs. 47,000 is paid as a legalization fee to the Ministry of Interior and Gs. 78,505 is paid as a legalization fee to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Document Name: Passport
Issuing Government Authority: Policia Nacional, Departmento de Identificaciones.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Blue with gold letters
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: National Police Officers
Registration Criteria: National id card, proof of payment of taxes, or a tax payer exemption certificate, minors need national id, and both parents must be present. If one parent is not present, need a Justice of the Peace letter or Court Order from the absent parent.
Procedure for Obtaining: Department of Identifications
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Other Documents Available: There are no other documents available
Not applicable
Post Title: Asunción, Paraguay (Embassy)
Address: Unit 3020, DPO AA 34036
Phone Number: +595 21 213 715
Visa Services: +595 21 237 6027
Comments / Additional Information: None
All visa categories for all Paraguay.
Washington, DC (202) 483-6960 (202) 234-4508
Los Angeles, CA (310) 417-9500 (310) 417-9520
Miami, FL (305) 374-9090 (305) 374-5522
New York, NY (212) 682-9441/9442 (212) 682-9443
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
Must be valid at time of entry
One requested for entry stamp
Yes
None
None
None
1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue
Asunción, Paraguay
Telephone: +(595)(21) 213-715
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(595)(21) 229-581
Fax: +(595)(21) 228-603
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Paraguay for information on U.S. - Paraguayan relations.
A passport is required to enter Paraguay. U.S. citizens arriving by air may obtain a "visa en arribo" (visa on arrival) at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asuncion. This is a multiple entry visa with a validity of up to ten years. The current fee is $160, payable in U.S. dollars. Credit cards are not accepted. Border agents generally only accept crisp, new bills that are free of any ink marks, blots, or tears. If paying with $100 denomination bills, series CB and D are not accepted. If not arriving at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport, prior to traveling to Paraguay, you must apply for a visa in person or by secure messenger at the Paraguayan Embassy in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Paraguayan consulate, and pay the fee. Minor children may require a special notarized authorization from Paraguayan authorities to enter and exit the country, when not accompanied by both legal parents/guardians. For additional information regarding your situation and how to obtain this special permit, please visit the Embassy’s website.
To leave Paraguay by air, you must pay an airport departure tax. Some airlines include the Paraguayan airport departure tax in the cost of the airline ticket. It is recommended that you check with the airline in order to determine whether or not the departure tax has been included.
Visit the Embassy of Paraguay website for the most current visa information.
HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Paraguay.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Security Messages: Messages regarding demonstrations, strikes, and weather-related events are posted on the Embassy’s website.
Terrorism: The U.S. Embassy is not aware of any specific threat to U.S. citizens in Paraguay. Nevertheless, you should remain vigilant at all times while travelling.
Crime: Transnational criminal organizations facilitate the illicit trafficking of arms, narcotics, and other goods in Paraguay, particularly along Paraguay’s eastern border with Brazil, most prominently from Pedro Juan Caballero south to Ciudad del Este, including the Tri-Border Area of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina. Coupled with the lack of sufficient police enforcement, the involvement of these organizations heightens violent crime in these areas. The U.S. Embassy in Asuncion requires U.S. government personnel and their family members to provide advance notice and a travel itinerary when traveling outside of the capital, particularly when traveling to Ciudad del Este, or to the departments of San Pedro, Concepcion, Amambay, and Canindeyu.
In addition, several high profile kidnappings targeting the Paraguayan business community and their families have occurred in the interior of the country, particularly in the department of Concepcion. Three of five victims currently being held were kidnapped in the past twelve months. The government of Paraguay alleges that members of the Paraguayan People’s Army (Ejercito del Pueblo Paraguayo, or EPP), a small, armed military criminal group operating in the departments of San Pedro and Concepcion, are the perpetrators. These kidnappings are financially motivated, and kidnappers have generally selected targets based on their wealth and perceived willingness to pay ransom.
U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Paraguay should also avoid large gatherings or events where crowds have congregated to demonstrate, protest, or cause damage as a byproduct of celebrating an event, such as after soccer matches.
Street crime is prevalent in the cities and the number of pick pockets and armed assaults is increasing. Robbers are more regularly using motorcycles to suddenly approach victims with a weapon and demand a wallet or purse, before quickly fleeing.
Thieves have been known to pose as service people (e.g., mailmen, reporters, water meter readers, electrical repairmen, delivery persons, maintenance personnel) to gain access to your home. They sometimes wear uniforms and travel in vans and automobiles with markings that make the vehicle appear official. Do not let such people inside your residence unless you have contacted the service provider directly to verify the appointment.
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Victims of Crime:
U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the U.S. Embassy.
Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at (+595) 021-213-715 and press 2210 (Dial (+595) (21) 229 581 after hours).
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Paraguay are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report.
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Paraguay. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Paraguayan law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities in employment, education, access to health care, and the provision of state services, and the government seeks to enforce these prohibitions. Access to buildings, pedestrian paths, and transportation is extremely difficult for persons with disabilities, as mandated accessibility requirements exist but are rarely enforced.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of Paraguay to ensure the medication is legal in Paraguay. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor-issued written prescription.
The following diseases are prevalent:
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: U.S. citizens have been injured and killed in traffic accidents throughout Paraguay. Only minimal standards must be met to obtain a Paraguayan driver’s license, and a driver’s education prior to licensing is not common.
Traffic Laws: Drivers throughout Paraguay routinely ignore traffic regulations. No vehicle insurance is required, and many Paraguayans drive without insurance coverage.
Public Transportation: Public transportation is readily available for urban and intercity travel. Buses vary in maintenance conditions and may not meet U.S. safety standards. Taxis are available and may be called using telephone numbers listed in newspapers. No passenger train service exists. Bicycle travel may not be safe because of traffic and other road hazards.
Most urban streets consist of cobblestones over dirt. Nearly all rural roads are unpaved, and during rainy periods and the rainy season (November-April), they may be impassable. Driving or traveling at night is not advisable outside of Asuncion, due to the presence of pedestrians, animals, or vehicles without proper lighting on the roads.
See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Paraguay’s national tourist office and national authorityresponsible for road safety. The Touring and Automobile Club provides some roadside assistance to its members. The club may be contacted in Asuncion by visiting its offices at 25 de Mayo near Avenida Brazil or by calling 210-550 to 210-553. Intercity highway maintenance is not equal to U.S. standards. The privately maintained toll road between Caaguazu and Ciudad del Este and the routes between Asuncion and Encarnacion and Asuncion and Pedro Juan Caballero are in general good condition. The Trans-Chaco route is in fair condition except for the portion between Mariscal Estigarribia and the Bolivian border, which is unpaved and at times impassable.
Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Paraguay, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Paraguay’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue
Asunción, Paraguay
Telephone: +(595)(21) 213-715
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(595)(21) 229-581
Fax: +(595)(21) 228-603
None.
Paraguay is not a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. But see, Paraguay’s response to the 2008 Hague Conference on Private International Law questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Service Convention. The United States and Paraguay are parties to the Inter-American Convention on Letters Rogatory and Additional Protocol. The U.S. Central Authority for the treaty is the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Division, Office of Foreign Litigation, Washington, D.C. Requests for service under the Inter-American Convention on Letters Rogatory and Additional Protocol may be sent to the U.S. Department of Justice's contractor, Process Forwarding International (PFI), for transmittal to the Brazilian Central Authority.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
Paraguay is NOT a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters.
Attorneys from the United States should contact local counsel to determine the availability of particular procedures. If depositions taken at the U.S. Embassy are permitted under local law, attorneys should contact the U.S. Embassy in Asuncion to make arrangements.
Paraguay is not a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. Documents issued in the United States may be authenticated for use in Paraguay by (a) contacting the U.S. Department of State Authentications Office and (b) then having the seal of the U.S. Department of State authenticated by the Embassy of Paraguay in Washington, D.C. Documents issued in U.S. states must first be authenticated by the designated state authority, generally the state Secretary of State.
1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue
Asunción, Paraguay
Telephone: +(595)(21) 213-715
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(595)(21) 229-581
Fax: +(595)(21) 228-603
Paraguay and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since January 1, 2008.
For information concerning travel to Paraguay, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Paraguay.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children's Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Paraguay. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Website
The Paraguayan Central Authority for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Secretaría Nacional de la Niñez y la Adolescencia (SNNA). SNNA’s role is to perform the duties given to central authorities under the Hague Abduction Convention, including processing Hague Abduction Convention applications for return of and access to children.
They can be reached at:
Dirección de Restitución Internacional
Secretaría Nacional de la Niñez y la Adolescencia
Avenida Mariscal López Nº 1662 e/ Rodó y Bernardino Caballero
Asuncion, Paraguay
Telephone: 595 (21) 207 166 / 595 981 255 291
E-mail: restitucion.internacional.py@gmail.com
Website
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Paraguay, the left-behind parent must submit a Hague application to the SNNA. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the SNNA, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are not fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or Paraguayan central authorities. Attorney fees, if necessary, are the sole responsibility of the person hiring the attorney. Additional costs may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in Paraguay. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Paraguay. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
Retaining a private attorney is not required in order to submit Hague Convention applications to a court in Paraguay. However, parents should consider hiring a private attorney to follow up on the case, to provide direct information to the court, and to generally advise as to the best course of action for their individual circumstances. A privately-hired attorney should contact the SNNA as soon as possible after the Hague Abduction Convention application has been filed. If a parent chooses to hire a private attorney, the SNNA will assist parents to find an attorney. Parents may also represent themselves if they choose.
The U.S. Embassy in Asuncion, Paraguay posts list of attorneys including those who specialize in family law.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the following persons or firms. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
The Paraguayan Central Authority does not have a formal mediation process to resolve international parental child abduction cases. However, the SNNA may discuss the possibility of voluntary return with the parties, which can result in an out-of-court resolution.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Paraguay is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore all adoptions between Paraguay and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention
Presently, intercountry adoptions are not allowed in Paraguay. Paraguayan law gives preference in adoption to Paraguayan citizens and legal permanent residents of Paraguay, and prospective adoptive parents must reside in Paraguay. Paraguayan government officials have to told the U.S. Embassy in Paraguay that should intercountry adoptions be permitted in the future, the government will only allow adoptions by citizens of countries that have ratified the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption (the Convention) and signed an agreement with the central governmental authority overseeing adoptions.
Note: Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. Learn more.
Adoption between the United States and Paraguay is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Paraguay, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more.
In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective adoptive parents, Paraguay also has the following requirements for prospective adoptive parents:
Because Paraguay is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Paraguay must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the Convention requires that Paraguay attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to Paraguay's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States.
Abandonment Requirements: No intercountry adoptions are permitted in Paraguay at this time. However, persons who meet the eligibility requirements listed above and who are interested in adopting a Paraguayan child must file an application form at the Adoption Center and provide the required documentation. After a review of their application and completion of a home study, the names of individuals approved to adopt are placed on a list of available parents.
When a child is abandoned or becomes an orphan, the Adoption Center is notified and must first attempt to find a relative to care for the child. If no relative can be found, the child remains under the authority of the Adoption Center until a judicial declaration is made that the child is adoptable. At that time, the court will usually release the child into the custody of the prospective adoptive parents until the final adoption decree is signed. A child is assigned to prospective parents based on the Adoption Center's judgment of the best interests of the child.
Centro de Adopciones (Adoption Center)
Because Paraguay is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Paraguay must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.
NOTE: If you filed your I-600a with Paraguay before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption. Your adoption could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. Learn more.
After this, your adoption service provider or you will submit a visa application for to a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy. The Consular Officer will review the child's information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities. If the Consular Office determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he/she will notify the COUNTRY's adoption authority (Article 5 letter). For Convention country adoptions, prospective adoptive parent(s) may not proceed with the adoption or obtain custody for the purpose of adoption until this takes place.
Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the adoption process.
The process for finalizing the adoption (or gaining legal custody) in Paraguay generally includes the following:
ADOPTION FEES: The U.S. Embassy in Paraguay discourages the payment of any fees that are not properly receipted, "donations," or "expediting" fees, that may be requested from prospective adoptive parents. Such fees have the appearance of "buying" a baby and put all future adoptions in Paraguay at risk.
The Adoption Center does not charge a fee. Attorneys assisting adopting parents set their own fees, which vary greatly.
In the adoption services contract that you sign at the beginning of the adoption process, your agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your adoption process.
Some of the fees specifically associated with adopting from Paraguay include:
NOTE: Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. Learn how .
Birth Certificate
You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.
Paraguayan Passport
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or Passport from Paraguay.
U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the United States Embassy for your child. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-800 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the "Panel Physician's" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
US citizens who adopted a Paraguayan child who was under the age of sixteen and has been in the legal custody of, and has resided with, the adopting parent(s) for at least two years, may file immigrant visa at the U.S. Embassy in Asuncion.
For additional information, e-mail questions to ConsularAsunci@state.gov
Note: Visa issuance after the final interview now generally takes at least 24 hours and it will not normally be possible to provide the visa to adoptive parents on the day of the interview. Adoptive parents should verify current processing times at the appropriate consulate or embassy before making final travel arrangements.
For adoptions finalized abroad: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to acquire American citizenship when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
For adoptions to be finalized in the United States: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to typically acquire American citizenship when the U.S. state court issues the final adoption decree. We urge your family to finalize the adoption in a U.S. State court as quickly as possible.
*Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.
Learn more about the Child Citizenship Act.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Paraguay. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.
To find information about obtaining a visa for Paraguay, see the Department of State's Country Specific Information.
Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.
The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in Paraguay, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Registration is free and can be done online.
What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
Here are some good places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S Embassy in Paraguay
1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue
Phone: (011-595-21) 213-715
Fax: (011-595-21) 213-728
Internet: py.usembassy.gov/
The Consular Section is open for U.S. citizen services, including registration, Monday through Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., except for U.S. and Paraguayan holidays.
Paraguay's Adoption Authority
Centro de Adopciones (Adoption Center)
Avenida Mariscal Lopez 1549 c/Pitiantuta, Asunción
Phone: 595-21-207-160
Hours: Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Embassy of Paraguay in the U.S.
2400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: (202) 483 6960
Fax: (202) 234 4508
Paraguay also has Consulates General in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York.
Office of Children's Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
E-mail: AskCI@state.gov
Internet: http://adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | N/A | N/A 3 |
| H-2B | None | N/A | N/A 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Available
Fees: There is no cost for a first time certificate. Renewals: Gs. 24,000 approximately. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Certificado del Acta de Nacimiento
Issuing Authority: Civil Registry (Dirección General del Registro del Estado Civil), Address: Ind. Nacional Y Manuel Dominguez, Asunción, Paraguay.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: records must include full name, parent's full names, date of birth and place where birth is registered. The certificates are issued on light blue paper.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Oficial del Registro del Estado Civil
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining:
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: A person who has been baptized in the Roman Catholic Church in Paraguay may have a Certificate of Baptism issued by Ecclesiastical Authorities. There may be a fee for this service Baptism certificates are acceptable as secondary proof only.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: No cost for first request. Renewals Gs. 24,000 approximately. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Certificado de Defunción
Issuing Authority: Dirección Del Registro Civil, Address: Ind. Nacional Y Manuel Dominguez, Asunción.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The certificates are issued on brown paper.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Oficial del Registro del Estado Civil.
Registration Criteria: The person registering the death must submit medical certificate, signature, hospital stamp, family registration booklet and national ID card (in case of being married), copy of the national ID from both (the deceased and the person who is declaring the death).
Procedure for Obtaining: Requests for certificates must include full name of decedent, date, and place of death.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Gs. 118.504 approximately. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Certificado del Acta de Matrimonio.
Issuing Authority: Dirección General del Registro del Estado Civil, Address: Concepción entre Lapacho y Cedro, Asunción.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The certificates are issue on light pink paper.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Oficial del Registro del Estado Civil.
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants must contact the Registro Civil to know the procedure for obtaining such documents.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: There is a cost for this service; however the cost varies.
Document Name:
Issuing Authority:
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format:
Issuing Authority Personnel Title:
Registration Criteria: Upon receiving the final divorce decree, the Civil Registry must register the divorce and they can issue the marriage certificate with the proper annotation.
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants must contact the Registro Civil to know the procedure for obtaining such documents.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: Should check with the Registro Civil
Available
Fees: There are no fees listed
Document Name: Adoption Certificate
Issuing Authority: Centro de Adopciones (Adoption Center)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Seal from Ministry of Children and Adolescents.
Registration Criteria: Paraguayan judge of the court of children and adolescents is the government entity that makes Hague Convention Article 4 determinations for adoptions. The Adoption Center within the Ministry of Children and Adolescents makes Hague Convention Article 5 determinations.
Procedure for Obtaining: Contact the Adoption Center
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are no available
Alternate Documents: See comment below
Exceptions: None
Comments: Adoptions can be formal or informal. If the adoption took place through the Central Adoption Authority, the child would have an adoption certificate. If the adoption was informal, a court order would be issued explaining the adoption process is final. Through either of these two processes, a child would be reissued a new birth certificate with their adoptive family’s name.
Available
Fees: - Gs. 8,500 for renewals. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Cédula de Identidad
Issuing Authority: Policía Nacional – Departamento de Identificaciones.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel
Registration Criteria: The expired ID card must be submitted
Procedure for Obtaining: There is no procedure for obtaining
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Gs. 19,600. Fees may vary.
Document Name: Certificado de Antecedentes
Issuing Authority: Policia Nacional – Departamento de Identificaciones
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: -The certificates are issued on yellow and green paper
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There are no specific issuing authority personnel
Registration Criteria: There are no specific registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining:
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: There are no fees listed
Document Name: Informe de Antecedentes Judiciales
Issuing Authority: Corte Suprema de Justicia, address Alonso y Testanova
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no specific issue authority
Registration Criteria: There are no specific registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: There is no specific procedure for obtaining
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available: Military Records are available to nationals who have rendered military service.
Fees: There may be a fee for this service.
Document Name: Libreta Del Servicio Militar (military service book).
Issuing Authority: Ayudantia General, Dirección Del Servicio De Reclutamiento Y Movilización, Avda. Eusebio Ayala Y Choferes Del Chaco, Asunción.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: This book contains a photograph and thumbprint of the bearer and describes his service record.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There are no specific issuing authority/personnel
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Only people physically present in Paraguay can obtain a military record. The applicant must provide full name, date and place of birth, military units and place of induction.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Types Available (Regular, Diplomatic, Official, etc.): Regular, Diplomatic, Official, and Consular
Fees: Depends on the type. For regular passports the price is three fees: Gs. 192,000 paid to Department of Identifications, National Police. Additionally Gs. 47,000 is paid as a legalization fee to the Ministry of Interior and Gs. 78,505 is paid as a legalization fee to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Document Name: Passport
Issuing Government Authority: Policia Nacional, Departmento de Identificaciones.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Blue with gold letters
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: National Police Officers
Registration Criteria: National id card, proof of payment of taxes, or a tax payer exemption certificate, minors need national id, and both parents must be present. If one parent is not present, need a Justice of the Peace letter or Court Order from the absent parent.
Procedure for Obtaining: Department of Identifications
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Other Documents Available: There are no other documents available
Not applicable
Post Title: Asunción, Paraguay (Embassy)
Address: Unit 3020, DPO AA 34036
Phone Number: +595 21 213 715
Visa Services: +595 21 237 6027
Comments / Additional Information: None
All visa categories for all Paraguay.
Washington, DC (202) 483-6960 (202) 234-4508
Los Angeles, CA (310) 417-9500 (310) 417-9520
Miami, FL (305) 374-9090 (305) 374-5522
New York, NY (212) 682-9441/9442 (212) 682-9443
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.
Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.
You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.
Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.
You are about to visit:
