Moving to Paraguay from Australia
Complete guide for Australians relocating to Paraguay. 90-day visa-free entry, territorial tax benefits, and everything you need to know.
Why Australians Move to Paraguay
Getting to Paraguay from Australia
Flight Routes
Direct Routes
- • No direct flights - very long journey
Connecting Routes
- • Sydney → Santiago → Asunción
- • Sydney → Auckland → Buenos Aires → Asunción
- • Melbourne → Dubai → São Paulo → Asunción
Flight Time
24-36 hours with connections
Typical Cost
AUD $1,500-2,500 one-way
Timezone for Remote Work
Very challenging - almost opposite business hours.
Document Requirements for Australians
Background Check: National Police Check
Agency: Australian Federal Police or accredited agencies
Cost: AUD $42 + apostille AUD $50
Processing Time: 2-15 business days
Apostille: Apostilled by DFAT (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade).
Complete Document Checklist
Valid Passport
At least 6 months validity remaining
National Police Check
Apostilled and translated to Spanish
Birth Certificate
Apostilled and translated to Spanish
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
Apostilled and translated
Health Certificate
Obtained in Paraguay (~$50)
Proof of Address in Paraguay
Rental contract or letter from host
See our complete Paraguay residency guide for detailed requirements, or learn about temporary residency options. Need help? Check our immigration lawyer cost guide.
Tax Implications for Australians
Key Tax Points for Australians
- Australia uses residence-based taxation
- Become non-resident by leaving Australia with intention to reside elsewhere
- Generally break Australian residency when you leave permanently
- No formal exit tax, but CGT may apply on assets sold before departure
- Paraguay 0% foreign income tax = tax-free foreign income
Learn more about Paraguay's territorial tax system and use our tax savings calculator to estimate your benefits. Paraguay is one of the top territorial tax countries for expats.
Cost Savings: Australia vs Paraguay
Rent Savings
80-90% cheaper than Sydney/Melbourne
Compared to major cities in Australia
Overall Cost of Living
60-75% lower cost of living
Lower than Australia
Specific Examples
- →Sydney rent AUD $3,500 → Asunción AUD $700 (80% savings)
- →Australian health insurance AUD $200 → Paraguay AUD $150
- →Sydney dinner AUD $80 → Asunción AUD $25 (69% savings)
Australian Expat Community in Paraguay
Community Size
200-500 Australians in Paraguay
Small but adventurous community. Often connect through broader anglophone expat groups.
Where Australians Live
- Asunción
Community Resources
- Facebook: "Australians in South America"
- Facebook: "Expats in Paraguay"
- Australian Embassy in Buenos Aires (covers Paraguay)
Challenges for Australians
- Extremely long travel distance (24+ hours)
- Almost opposite timezone makes Australian work difficult
- Very small Australian expat community
- Family visits are expensive and exhausting
- Major cultural adjustment
- Language barrier
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australians need a visa for Paraguay?
No, Australians can enter Paraguay visa-free for 90 days. To stay longer, apply for temporary residency in Paraguay. Given the distance, most Australians plan to stay long-term rather than just visit.
Can I work remotely for Australian clients from Paraguay?
Technically yes, but the timezone is extremely challenging. Paraguay is 14 hours behind Sydney. A 9am meeting in Sydney is 7pm the previous day in Paraguay. Most Australians in Paraguay work asynchronously, have their own business, or have shifted to non-Australian clients.
How long are flights from Australia to Paraguay?
Flights take 24-36 hours with at least 2 connections. Common routes go through Santiago, Buenos Aires, or via the Middle East and São Paulo. Budget AUD $1,500-2,500 one-way. This is a significant commitment.
Is there an Australian embassy in Paraguay?
No, Australia doesn't have an embassy in Paraguay. Australians are served by the Australian Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina. For emergencies, contact them or the Australian Government 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre.
Calculate Your Residency Costs
Get a personalized estimate for Australian residency.
Moving from Other Countries
Essential Paraguay Guides
Ready to Make the Move?
Get our complete Asunción settlement guides and start your journey from Australia to Paraguay.