Paraguay has witnessed a remarkable surge in migratory and tourist activity throughout 2025. In terms of foreign settlement, the National Directorate of Migration (DNM) reported unprecedented figures for this year, with 43,802 applications for temporary and permanent residency received through the end of November. This residency rush marks an increase of over 50% compared with the full year of 2024.
Additionally, 36,263 residency permits were granted, reflecting a 28% year-on-year rise. Brazilian citizens led the nationalities, accounting for 20,852 residences issued. Between January and October 2025, the DNM processed 38,236 applications. That number already surpassed the total for all of 2024.
Border movements
Also border movements reached record levels by the end of November 2025. Through the end of November, the country recorded a sustained increase in migration and tourism, totalling 12.7 million entries and exits involving Paraguayan nationals and foreigners. This figure represents more than a 25% increase over the entire total for 2024.
The data were unveiled by the National Directorate of Migration during the Tax Forum event, held in the Convention Hall of the Central Bank of Paraguay as part of the 2025 Accountability Report presented by the National Directorate of Tax Revenue (DNIT).
Key presentation at tax forum
Jorge Kronawetter, National Director of Migration, served as the main panelist at the forum, which was chaired by Óscar Orué, head of the DNIT. Kronawetter delivered a detailed quantitative analysis highlighting the steady growth in migratory and tourist flows.
He attributed this expansion largely to Paraguay’s growing reputation as a regional and international destination of interest, driven by the hosting of several high-profile events in 2025. These included the 75th FIFA Congress, the AFA Super Cup Final, the Asunción 2025 Junior Pan American Games, the World Rally Championship, and the Conmebol Sudamericana Cup Final, all of which contributed substantial additional revenue to the economy.
Enhanced border management measures
Kronawetter also emphasised the border management initiatives introduced to accommodate this increased activity. These measures focus on optimising procedures and expediting immigration controls whilst prioritising national security.
A notable example is the implementation of unified control via the Reciprocal Recognition of Competencies (RRC) agreement between Paraguayan and Argentine immigration authorities at the Encarnación-Posadas border crossing.
Positive outlook for Paraguay’s development
Concluding his remarks, the National Director of Migration stressed that these statistics underscore an upward migratory trend driven by clear public policies and effective inter-institutional coordination. The residency rush and increased border movements are helping to position Paraguay advantageously for continued development and enhanced international standing.
