During the first half of 2025, Paraguay recorded a sharp rise in residency applications, reaching 20,567 procedures initiated from January to June. This figure marks a 51.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The data were published by the Paraguay’s National Directorate of Migration, which monitors foreign settlement activity. The surge is attributed to work, study, and family-related motivations.
Granted residency applications
Alongside applications, the number of residencies granted also rose notably. In the first half of 2025, authorities approved 16,406 residency permits, 41.7% more than the 11,576 permits issued over thre same period in 2024. This figure includes both temporary, and permanent statuses.
Temporary residences grew from 8,970 in 2024, to 12,370 in 2025, while the number of permanent residencies increased from 2,606 to 4,036. These results suggest that not only interest is growing, but Paraguay’s migration services are also scaling up to meet demand effectively.
Brazil, Argentina, and Germany leading the way
Among the various nationalities, Brazilian citizens led the way with 11,723 applications filed in the first six months of 2025. Argentina followed with 2,368 applicants, while Germany, Bolivia, and Spain recorded 921, 733, and 536 applications respectively. These figures indicate not only regional interest, but also growing attraction among European nationals.
Many Brazilians are drawn to Paraguay’s border regions to study or invest in sectors such as agriculture and construction. German nationals, particularly retirees, favour the country for its low cost of living in rural areas. The simplified residency procedures also play a key role in attracting them.
Paraguay’s growing regional appeal
In 2024, Paraguay recorded a historic 29,124 residency applications, reflecting a 10% increase from the previous year. Of these, 22,684 were for temporary residency and 6,440 for permanent residency. 2025 is shaping up to be another landmark year for the number of Paraguay’s residency applications.
Paraguay’s sustained growth in migration figures may signal broader regional shifts. As other countries face political and economic uncertainty, Paraguay appears increasingly attractive due to its investment opportunities, low cost of living, and simplified migration processes.
Recently, the United Nations Tourism agency reported a 53% rise in international arrivals, placing Paraguay at the top of the global ranking for the first quarter of 2025. If current trends continue, the country may well position itself as a regional hub for new residents and visitors seeking opportunity and stability.
For more information, follow Paraguay’s National Directorate of Migration on Instagram.
