Paraguay granted 36,033 residence permits to foreigners between January and July 2026, a 74% increase from the same period in 2025. Of that total, 23,994 went to Brazilian citizens, who led both temporary permits (20,528) and permanent permits (3,466). The increase reflects a 58% jump in applications received by the National Migration Directorate, which recorded 38,701 requests in the first seven months.
The institution's director, Jorge Kronawetter, attributes the trend to the arrival of businesspeople and investors drawn by the Investor Pass program, launched by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC). The initiative allows foreigners to obtain permanent residence immediately, without going through the temporary stage, provided they invest in the country. According to Kronawetter, the main attractions cited by applicants are economic growth, the simplified tax system and Paraguay's logistical position, as well as local hospitality.
The profile of new residents also includes small and medium-sized entrepreneurs and students living in border regions. In July, the National Migration Directorate received 5,446 residence applications, 40% more than in the same month last year. While temporary applications rose 66%, permanent applications fell 14%. As a result, 2026 is expected to close with a new record for residence permits, surpassing the previous year.
Brazil accounts for 66% of the residence permits granted, followed by Argentina (2,651), Germany (1,325) and Spain (998). The increase in temporary permits, which represents 81% of the year-on-year growth, accompanies the broader rise in applications.