Paraguay

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 911 for police.
• Dial 141 for ambulance.
• Dial 132 for fire brigade.

Terrorism

The U.S. Embassy is not aware of any specific threat to U.S. citizens in Paraguay. But terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays and during large events. U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Paraguay should also avoid large gatherings or events where crowds have congregated to demonstrate, protest, or where they could cause damage as a byproduct of celebrating an event, such as after soccer matches.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Street crime is common in cities. Pickpockets and armed assaults occur.

• Robbers use motorcycles to approach victims. They often use a weapon and demand a cellphone, wallet, or purse, before quickly fleeing.
• Transnational criminal organizations facilitate the illicit trafficking of arms, narcotics, and other goods in Paraguay. This is common along Paraguay’s eastern border with Brazil, from Pedro Juan Caballero south to Ciudad del Este. It also includes the Tri-Border Area of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina. These organizations perpetrate violent crime in these areas. Police resources in these areas are limited.
• Due to security risks, U.S. government employees working in Paraguay need to obtain special authorization to travel to the departments of Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyú, Concepcion, and San Pedro.  Due to road safety risks and criminal activity, U.S. government employees working in Paraguay are prohibited from nighttime driving between these departments (except within city limits).
• U.S. government employees are prohibited from using municipal buses in Paraguay because of a serious risk of robbery and assault.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 911.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drones are regulated by Dirección Nacional de Aeronáutica Civil (DINAC). Drones must be flown within line of sight of the pilot and are prohibited near airports, controlled airspace, and government buildings.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Paraguay seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Paraguay. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Paraguay prohibits discrimination against people with physical or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.

• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Paraguay Traveler Information Page provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 141 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.

• Ambulances are unreliable or not present in most areas except the capital city of Asuncion. Ambulances in Asuncion are unreliable and are not equipped with advanced medical equipment. 
• Ambulances are not staffed with trained paramedics. They often have little or no medical equipment. 
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi/rideshare or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Common diseases

• Diarrheal illness
• Rabies
• Mosquito-borne illnesses include:
  • Zika
  • Dengue Fever
  • Chikungunya

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Paraguay. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.
• Private hospitals in Paraguay will require payment in full at the time of checkout or even during a prolonged, costly stay.  They may prohibit a patient from discharging themselves if a bill is not paid in full.
• Public hospitals are available at no charge.  However, treatment may be limited, and patients and their families may be required to supply medicines and some medical supplies (i.e. adult diapers, gauze, wipes, bottled water, etc.).

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Paraguay especially in Asuncion and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. 
• Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Check with the Paraguay Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Paraguay.  
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Paraguay to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• In most areas, tap water is not safe to drink.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Paraguay.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

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. A driver’s education prior to licensing is not common.
• Primary roads in urban areas are asphalted. Most secondary urban streets are cobblestones over dirt. Nearly all rural roads are unpaved and may be impassable during rainy periods and the rainy season from October to March. 
• Drivers are advised to use caution and stay alert when driving in Paraguay.  Traffic laws are often not enforced, and other drivers may ignore stop signs, traffic lights, and speed limits.
• Traffic police can stop motorists for traffic infractions and are known to suggest payment of the fine in cash at the time of the infraction.  Motorists should not pay the officer directly.  Fines should be paid at the municipality office for the area where the fine was given.
• Motorcycles have the right of way under Paraguayan law.  In an accident with a larger vehicle, the driver of the larger vehicle is held to a higher level of responsibility.
• It is illegal to drive barefoot, with flipflops, or without headlights on, regardless of the time of day, when on the highway.  Daytime running lights are insufficient.
• Driving or traveling at night is not advisable outside of Asuncion This is due to the presence of pedestrians, animals, or vehicles without proper lighting on the roads.
• 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 generally in good condition. The Trans-Chaco route is in fair condition except for the portion between Mariscal Estigarribia and the Bolivian border. This road is unpaved and at times impassable.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.
• Visit the website of Paraguay’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety. 

Traffic laws 

U.S. drivers need a valid U.S. driver’s license and a valid International Drivers Permit to drive in Paraguay.

• Drivers throughout Paraguay routinely ignore traffic regulations.
• No vehicle insurance is required. Many Paraguayans drive without insurance coverage.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are available and you can call them via telephone numbers listed in newspapers.

• Mobile ride hailing services like Uber and Bolt are also widely available in Asuncion.

Public and commercial transportation

Public transportation is available for urban and intercity travel. U.S. government employees are prohibited from using municipal buses in Paraguay because of a serious risk of robbery and assault.

• Buses vary in maintenance conditions and may not meet U.S. safety standards.
• No passenger train service exists.
• Bicycle travel may not be safe because of traffic and other road hazards.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Paraguay’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program. 

• There is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Paraguay.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Rainstorms – Severe thunderstorms and rainfall resulting in localized flooding can be common during the months of the rainy season from October to March.
• Heatwaves – Extreme heat can occur during the summer months from December to February. Temperatures regularly exceed 100° F with high humidity.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates