Relocating to Paraguay: Your First 6 Months in the Land of Opportunity

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May 13, 2024

Thinking about starting a new life in Paraguay? Whether you’re seeking a lower cost of living, exciting investment opportunities, or a peaceful lifestyle in South America, relocating to Paraguay is a rewarding experience—but it comes with its own set of surprises.

Known for its welcoming culture, affordable housing, and laid-back lifestyle, Paraguay offers a unique blend of modern convenience and old-world charm. However, like any relocation, the first six months can be a period of adjustment. From finding the perfect neighborhood to navigating cultural differences and setting up daily essentials, there’s plenty to learn and explore.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect during your first months in Paraguay, helping you transition smoothly and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re an expat, retiree, or entrepreneur, this article will give you an inside look at the key steps to settling in, making the most of your new surroundings, and building a life you’ll love.

1. Finding Your Home and Settling In: Where and How to Start

One of the first tasks when relocating to Paraguay is finding a place to live. Whether you’re looking for a temporary rental or planning to buy property, knowing the local market is essential. Here’s how to get started:

Short-Term Rentals

It’s wise to begin with a short-term rental while you explore different neighborhoods and decide where you’d like to settle long-term. The most reliable platforms for finding rentals are:

Airbnb – Best for furnished, short-term options in popular areas like Asunción and San Bernardino.
Facebook Marketplace – Frequently used by locals to advertise apartments and houses for rent.
Real Estate Agents – Can help you find hidden gems and negotiate better deals.

Average Monthly Rent:

1-bedroom apartment in Asunción city center: $300–$500 USD
2–3-bedroom house in suburban areas (San Lorenzo, Lambaré): $500–$800 USD
Lakeside villa in San Bernardino: $800–$1,500 USD

Neighborhoods to Consider

Paraguay offers a mix of urban, suburban, and rural lifestyles. Here are some of the most popular areas for expats:

Asunción (Villa Morra, Carmelitas, Mburucuyá): Ideal for those who want modern amenities, international restaurants, and coworking spaces. These neighborhoods are vibrant and well-connected.
San Bernardino: Perfect for those seeking a quieter life near Lake Ypacaraí. Known for its growing expat community, it offers a mix of vacation homes and year-round residences.
Areguá: Known for its art scene, colonial charm, and proximity to nature. It’s great for creative professionals or those looking for a more relaxed, small-town vibe.
Luque and Lambaré: Suburban areas close to Asunción, offering larger homes and more green space at lower prices than the city center.

Setting Up Utilities

Once you’ve found your home, you’ll need to set up utilities. This process can take longer than expected, so plan ahead.

Electricity (ANDE): Register at the local office with proof of address and ID. Average monthly cost: $50–$100 USD, depending on usage.
Water: Often included in rental contracts, especially in apartments. If not, it’s managed by local providers. Average monthly cost: $10–$20 USD.
Internet Providers: Tigo and Personal offer reliable high-speed internet. A fiber-optic connection will cost around $30–$50 USD per month. Tip: Ask locals which provider has the best coverage in your area.

Furnishing Your Home

If your rental isn’t fully furnished, local stores like Punto Farma and Muebles Itaú offer affordable furniture and home goods. For a more modern selection, visit Shopping del Sol in Asunción, where you’ll find higher-end brands.

Key Documents and Contracts

When renting or buying property, always make sure to:

Sign a detailed contract (in Spanish) that outlines all terms and conditions.
Check for hidden fees (maintenance, utilities, etc.).
Consult with a local lawyer to ensure the process is transparent and legal.

Tip: Avoid verbal agreements, as they are common but can lead to misunderstandings later.

2. Understanding the Culture and Lifestyle: Embrace the Local Way of Life

Moving to a new country means adapting not just to a different pace of life but also to new customs, traditions, and cultural nuances. Paraguay’s culture is warm, welcoming, and deeply rooted in family, community, and tradition. To settle in smoothly, it’s essential to understand and embrace the local way of life.

Language: Spanish vs. Guaraní

While Spanish is widely spoken, Guaraní, an indigenous language, is an integral part of Paraguayan culture. You’ll often hear Guaraní phrases mixed into everyday conversations, especially outside major cities.

Learning Spanish will be crucial for daily tasks like shopping, setting up services, and interacting with locals.
Guaraní Basics: Even learning a few words or phrases (like “mba’éichapa” for “how are you?”) will be greatly appreciated by locals and help you feel more connected.

Tip: Language classes are available in Asunción and online. Start with conversational Spanish to focus on practical communication.

Daily Rhythm: Slow and Relaxed

In Paraguay, life moves at a slower pace. Stores and businesses often close for a siesta during the early afternoon, and social activities can last well into the evening.

Work-life balance is highly valued, with weekends dedicated to family gatherings, barbecues (asados), and outdoor activities.
Social Etiquette: Paraguayans are polite and warm. A kiss on the cheek is a common greeting, and taking time to chat before jumping into business matters is expected.

Expect to slow down and savor the small moments—Paraguay isn’t a place where everything is rushed.

Food and Traditions

Paraguayan cuisine is a reflection of its culture—simple, hearty, and full of flavor.

Tereré: A cold herbal infusion similar to mate but served with ice-cold water. Drinking tereré is a social ritual, especially during hot afternoons.
Asado: The Paraguayan barbecue is a must-experience tradition. Be prepared to enjoy slow-cooked meats, mandioca (cassava), and fresh salads.
Sopa Paraguaya: A cornbread-like dish that’s a national favorite.

You’ll find that food is at the heart of social life, and joining friends or neighbors for a meal is a great way to build connections.

Local Festivals and Celebrations

Paraguay is rich in festivals and cultural events that provide a glimpse into its history and traditions.

Día de San Juan (June): A lively celebration with traditional games, bonfires, and local food.
Carnaval: While not as large as Brazil’s, Paraguayan Carnaval is a colorful and fun-filled experience, especially in Encarnación.
Semana Santa (Holy Week): A more solemn but important holiday where families gather for traditional meals and religious observances.

Participating in these events is a great way to immerse yourself in Paraguayan culture and meet new people.

Building Social Connections

Paraguayans are friendly and curious, making it relatively easy to integrate into the community.

Join expat groups and local clubs to meet people with similar interests.
Language exchanges are a fun way to practice Spanish and meet locals.
Be open and patient—it takes time to build deeper connections, but the friendships you form will be meaningful and long-lasting.

Key Advice for Newcomers

Be flexible and open-minded. The pace of life may be slower, but it’s a chance to enjoy the present.
Respect local customs and traditions. Paraguayans are proud of their culture and will appreciate your interest.
Don’t rush into recreating your life from back home. Embrace what Paraguay offers, and your experience will be far more rewarding.

3. Building a Social Circle: Making Connections That Matter

Moving to a new country can feel isolating at first, especially if you don’t speak the language fluently or aren’t familiar with local customs. However, Paraguay’s warm and welcoming culture makes it easier to find your footing and form meaningful connections—if you’re willing to put yourself out there.

Start with the Expat Community

Paraguay has a growing expat community, especially in Asunción and San Bernardino. Joining expat groups can be a great way to meet like-minded people who’ve gone through the same transition. They can offer invaluable advice, share local tips, and introduce you to their networks.

Facebook Groups: Active expat groups in Paraguay are great for finding events, housing, and business opportunities.
International Clubs and Language Exchanges: These are popular for socializing while practicing your Spanish. Look for local meetups on platforms like Meetup.com.

Participate in Local Activities

To truly immerse yourself in Paraguayan life, you’ll need to step outside the expat bubble. Engaging with local activities is the best way to build lasting connections with Paraguayans.

Join Sports Clubs: Soccer is huge in Paraguay, but you’ll also find tennis, yoga, and martial arts groups.
Take a Cooking or Dance Class: Learning how to cook traditional Paraguayan dishes or taking a salsa class is a fun way to meet locals.
Volunteer: Many local organizations welcome volunteers, and it’s a meaningful way to give back while meeting people.

Tip: Paraguayans value long-term relationships and trust. Don’t rush—take time to get to know people, and they’ll welcome you as part of the community.

Master the Art of Networking

In Paraguay, personal connections are everything. Building a solid network will open doors socially and professionally.

Start with introductions: Being introduced by a mutual acquaintance will often make all the difference in how you’re received.
Take your time: Paraguayans prefer to build relationships slowly. Focus on being genuine and showing interest in their culture.

Festivals and Local Events

Paraguay’s festivals and local markets are great places to meet new people in a relaxed environment. Take advantage of community gatherings, religious festivals, and artisan fairs to experience the culture while expanding your social circle.

Farmers’ Markets: Often held on weekends, these are great spots to meet locals and support small businesses.
Cultural Events: Art exhibitions, theater performances, and live music shows are popular in cities like Asunción.

Practical Tips for Building a Social Circle

Be patient: Building deep connections takes time, especially in a close-knit society like Paraguay’s.
Learn the language: Even if your Spanish isn’t perfect, making an effort will be greatly appreciated.
Accept invitations: Whether it’s for a family barbecue or a local festival, say yes—you never know where it might lead.

The Reward: A True Sense of Belonging

By putting yourself out there and embracing both expat and local communities, you’ll quickly find that Paraguay becomes more than just a place to live—it becomes home. The relationships you build will be your greatest asset as you settle into your new life.

4. Getting Around and Daily Life: Making Everyday Life Easier

Settling into your daily routine in Paraguay is an exciting part of the relocation process. From transportation and shopping to managing utilities and discovering local services, there’s a lot to learn—but once you get the hang of it, everyday life becomes simple and enjoyable.

Transportation: How to Get Around

Public transportation options in Paraguay are limited compared to other countries, so most expats prefer Uber or Bolt for reliable and affordable transportation. These ride-hailing services are widely available in cities like Asunción and San Lorenzo, offering a safe and convenient way to travel without worrying about negotiating fares.

If you’re staying long-term, getting a Paraguayan driver’s license is a smart move. The process is relatively fast once you’ve obtained your cédula (national ID).

Initial Driving: Use your international driving permit (IDP) for up to a year.
Local License: After securing your cédula, apply for a local license, which involves a straightforward application process and basic tests.

Tip: If you plan to travel to rural areas, owning or renting a 4×4 vehicle can be helpful for navigating less-developed roads.

Shopping and Essentials

Shopping in Paraguay offers a blend of modern convenience and local charm.

Supermarkets: Chains like Superseis, Stock, and Biggie Express offer imported goods and local products.
Local Markets: For fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods, visit markets like Mercado 4 in Asunción.
Shopping Malls: Shopping del Sol and Mariscal López in Asunción feature international brands, home goods, and electronics.

Tip: Prices for imported items can be high, so rely on local alternatives whenever possible.

Healthcare

Paraguay’s healthcare system is affordable and accessible, though private clinics are generally recommended for expats due to higher standards of care.

Private Healthcare: Clinics like Sanatorio Migone and Hospital Universitario in Asunción offer high-quality services.
Health Insurance: It’s advisable to purchase private insurance, which covers both routine care and emergencies. Monthly premiums range from $50 to $150 USD, depending on coverage.

Banking and Payments

Setting up a bank account in Paraguay can take some time, but it’s necessary for managing bills and daily expenses. Major banks include Banco Itaú, Banco Continental, and Banco Regional.

The good news is that credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even in smaller towns. Most businesses, from supermarkets to restaurants and hotels, accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express (AMEX). However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for street vendors, taxis, and smaller shops that may not accept cards.

Cash is still preferred in local markets and for small purchases.
ATMs are plentiful, and most major international banks have partnerships with local ones, making it easy to withdraw funds.

Managing Utilities

Setting up and managing utilities is part of settling in.

Electricity: Provided by ANDE, with monthly costs ranging from $50 to $100 USD, depending on usage.
Internet: Fiber-optic internet is available in most cities, with packages from Tigo and Personal, costing $30 to $50 USD per month.
Water: Usually included in rental agreements, but if not, expect to pay $10 to $20 USD monthly.

Everyday Life Tips

Learn to adapt to the slower pace. Paraguayans value relationships over rushing through tasks, so expect delays but enjoy the relaxed lifestyle.
Explore the countryside. Paraguay’s natural beauty is best enjoyed on weekends—plan trips to Ybycuí National Park, the Jesuit Ruins, or Lake Ypacaraí.
Stay flexible. Things may not always work like they do back home, but with patience, you’ll find solutions and build a comfortable life.

Conclusion: Finding Your Routine

In your first few months, daily life in Paraguay may feel like an adventure, but it will soon become second nature. By learning how to get around, where to shop, and how to manage essential services, you’ll create a new rhythm that makes Paraguay truly feel like home.

5. Bureaucracy and Residency Paperwork: What You Need to Know

Paraguay is known for offering one of the most accessible and affordable residency programs in the world, making it a popular destination for expats seeking a long-term home in South America. While the process is relatively straightforward, it does require some preparation and patience. Here’s what you need to know to navigate the paperwork.

Residency Options

There are two main residency paths for expats in Paraguay:

Temporary Residency: A short-term solution, valid for up to two years. Ideal for those testing the waters.
Permanent Residency: The most popular option, offering long-term stability and a range of benefits, including easy access to banking and business opportunities.

Most expats aim for permanent residency, which can be obtained in as little as 3–6 months. Once granted, you’re free to live, work, and invest in Paraguay without restrictions.

Documents You’ll Need

The residency process requires several key documents, which should be officially translated into Spanish and legalized:

Valid Passport
Birth Certificate
Police Clearance Certificate (from your home country, issued within 6 months)

Tip: Work with a local immigration lawyer to ensure your paperwork is complete and properly submitted. This can save you time and prevent unnecessary delays.

Steps to Obtain Permanent Residency

Gather and Translate Your Documents: Start this process in your home country, as obtaining some documents may take weeks.
Apply for Residency at the Immigration Office in Asunción: Submit your application along with the required documents.
Complete a Medical Check: This must be done at an approved clinic in Paraguay.
Wait for Approval: The process can take 3–6 months, depending on how busy the immigration office is. Once approved, you’ll receive your cédula (national ID card).

Why Get Permanent Residency?

Visa-Free Travel: Your Paraguayan residency allows easy access to other Mercosur countries, such as Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay.
Tax Benefits: Paraguay has a territorial tax system, meaning you only pay taxes on income earned within the country.
Banking and Investment Opportunities: Residency simplifies opening local bank accounts and accessing real estate and business opportunities.
Pathway to Citizenship: After three years of permanent residency, you may be eligible to apply for Paraguayan citizenship.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Delays in Processing: Bureaucracy can be slow, so patience is crucial. Stay in close contact with your lawyer to track your application’s progress.
Document Legalization: Ensure all foreign documents are legalized and translated correctly. Apostilles are required for most documents.
Language Barrier: Most immigration officials only speak Spanish. Hiring a local guide or translator is highly recommended.

Final Thoughts: Worth the Effort

While the paperwork and waiting periods may seem daunting, the benefits of obtaining Paraguayan residency far outweigh the challenges. With residency, you’ll gain stability, freedom, and access to one of South America’s most promising markets.

Need Help with Residency? Contact our team for personalized assistance in navigating the process and ensuring everything goes smoothly.

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