Moving to Paraguay from New Zealand
Complete guide for New Zealanders relocating to Paraguay. 90-day visa-free entry, territorial tax benefits, and everything you need to know.
Why New Zealanders Move to Paraguay
Getting to Paraguay from New Zealand
Flight Routes
Direct Routes
- • No direct flights - very long journey
Connecting Routes
- • Auckland → Santiago → Asunción
- • Auckland → Buenos Aires → Asunción
- • Auckland → Sydney → São Paulo → Asunción
Flight Time
24-36 hours with connections
Typical Cost
NZD $2,000-3,500 one-way
Timezone for Remote Work
Very challenging - almost completely opposite business hours.
Document Requirements for New Zealanders
Background Check: NZ Police Clearance Certificate
Agency: New Zealand Police
Cost: NZD $35 + apostille NZD $50
Processing Time: 5-10 business days
Apostille: Apostilled by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA).
Complete Document Checklist
Valid Passport
At least 6 months validity remaining
NZ Police Clearance Certificate
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 New Zealanders
Key Tax Points for New Zealanders
- New Zealand uses residence-based taxation
- Become non-resident by leaving NZ permanently
- No formal exit tax on departure
- Transitional residency rules may apply for 4 years after arriving
- Paraguay 0% foreign income tax = no replacement taxation
- Maintain fewer than 183 days in NZ to avoid tax residency
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: New Zealand vs Paraguay
Rent Savings
80-85% cheaper than Auckland/Wellington
Compared to major cities in New Zealand
Overall Cost of Living
60-75% lower cost of living
Lower than New Zealand
Specific Examples
- →Auckland rent NZD $3,000 → Asunción NZD $600 (80% savings)
- →NZ groceries NZD $600/mo → Paraguay NZD $350 (42% savings)
- →NZ healthcare (if private) NZD $200 → Paraguay NZD $150
New Zealander Expat Community in Paraguay
Community Size
100-300 New Zealanders in Paraguay
Very small but adventurous community. Often connect through broader anglophone expat groups.
Where New Zealanders Live
- Asunción
Community Resources
- Facebook: "Kiwis Abroad"
- Facebook: "Expats in Paraguay"
- New Zealand Embassy in Buenos Aires (covers Paraguay)
Challenges for New Zealanders
- Extremely long travel distance (24+ hours)
- Opposite timezone makes NZ work nearly impossible
- Very small Kiwi expat community
- Family visits are expensive and exhausting
- Major cultural adjustment
- Language barrier
- Less developed infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions
Do New Zealanders need a visa for Paraguay?
No, New Zealand citizens can enter Paraguay visa-free for 90 days. To stay longer, apply for temporary residency while in Paraguay. Given the distance, most Kiwis plan extended stays rather than short visits.
Can I work remotely for NZ clients from Paraguay?
Technically yes, but the timezone is extremely challenging. Paraguay is 16 hours behind New Zealand. A 9am meeting in Auckland is 5pm the previous day in Paraguay. Most Kiwis in Paraguay work asynchronously, run their own business, or have shifted to non-NZ clients.
Is there a New Zealand embassy in Paraguay?
No, New Zealand doesn't have an embassy in Paraguay. Kiwis are served by the New Zealand Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina. For emergencies, contact them or the NZ Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24/7 emergency line.
How long are flights from New Zealand to Paraguay?
Flights take 24-36 hours with at least 2 connections. Common routes go through Santiago, Buenos Aires, or via Australia and São Paulo. Budget NZD $2,000-3,500 one-way. This is a significant commitment requiring proper planning.
How does Paraguay compare to NZ for cost of living?
Paraguay is dramatically cheaper than New Zealand. Auckland rent averages NZD $3,000/month vs Asunción at around NZD $600. Overall, expect 60-75% savings. This makes Paraguay attractive for Kiwis escaping NZ's housing crisis.
Calculate Your Residency Costs
Get a personalized estimate for New Zealander residency.
Moving from Other Countries
Essential Paraguay Guides
Ready to Make the Move?
Get our complete Asunción settlement guides and start your journey from New Zealand to Paraguay.