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South America

Nationality of Paraguay: all obtaining pathways

Verified: 2026-06-20Informational guide; the linked official source is the valid reference.3 pathways

Paraguay requires three years of permanent residence for naturalization, with no additional reduction for marriage, which is subject to the same general timeframe. Requirements include lawful means of livelihood and a lawful trade or profession, and descent is transmitted through consular registration of children born abroad to Paraguayan nationals.

1

Naturalization by residence

Requirements

  • 3 years of permanent residence in Paraguay
  • Over 18 years of age
  • Good record
  • Legitimate means of livelihood
  • Lawful trade or profession
  • Constitution art. 148: minimum 3 years of residence in the national territory, age of majority, exercise of a profession/trade/science/art/industry and good conduct.

Documentation

  • Valid passport
  • Criminal record certificate from the country of origin, apostilled or legalized
  • Judicial record certificate in Paraguay
  • Permanent residence certificate
  • Birth certificate apostilled or legalized
  • Sworn declaration of trade or profession
Duration: 3 years
Official link
2

Nationality by marriage

Requirements

  • Being the spouse of a Paraguayan
  • Permanent residence in Paraguay
  • Marriage registered in Paraguay
  • Good record

Documentation

  • Marriage certificate registered in Paraguay
  • Valid passport
  • Apostilled criminal record certificate
  • Apostilled birth certificate
  • Permanent residence certificate
Duration: 3 years (same general requirement)
Official link
3

Nationality by descent

Requirements

  • Being a child of a Paraguayan father or mother born abroad
  • Register before a Paraguayan consulate

Documentation

  • Birth certificate apostilled or legalized
  • Paraguayan father's/mother's birth certificate
Duration: Not required
Official link

Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Paraguay

How many years of residence does Paraguay require to naturalize?

According to the main pathway of Paraguay (Naturalization by residence), the term is 3 years. The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.

Can the nationality of Paraguay be obtained by marriage?

Yes, through the Nationality by marriage pathway (3 years (same general requirement)). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.

What documentation does naturalization in Paraguay require?

The Naturalization by residence pathway requires: Valid passport; Criminal record certificate from the country of origin, apostilled or legalized; Judicial record certificate in Paraguay; Permanent residence certificate; Birth certificate apostilled or legalized; among 1 more documents.

What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Paraguay?

Paraguay provides 3 pathways: Naturalization by residence, Nationality by marriage, Nationality by descent.

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