Moving to Paraguay from Switzerland
Complete guide for Swiss relocating to Paraguay. 90-day visa-free entry, territorial tax benefits, and everything you need to know.
Why Swiss Move to Paraguay
Getting to Paraguay from Switzerland
Flight Routes
No direct flights - connection required
Connecting Routes
- • Zurich → Madrid → Asunción
- • Zurich → São Paulo → Asunción
- • Geneva → Paris → Buenos Aires → Asunción
Flight Time
18-24 hours with connections
Typical Cost
CHF 800-1,400 one-way
Timezone for Remote Work
Challenging - limited overlap with Swiss business hours.
Document Requirements for Swiss
Background Check: Strafregisterauszug (Criminal Record Extract)
Agency: Federal Office of Justice
Cost: CHF 20 + apostille CHF 25
Processing Time: 3-5 business days
Apostille: Apostilled by cantonal authorities or the Federal Chancellery.
Complete Document Checklist
Valid Passport
At least 6 months validity remaining
Strafregisterauszug (Criminal Record Extract)
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 Swiss
Key Tax Points for Swiss
- Switzerland uses residence-based taxation
- Must properly deregister from your commune (Wegzug)
- No Swiss exit tax for most individuals
- Swiss pension (Pillar 2) may have restrictions on withdrawal
- Paraguay 0% foreign income tax = major savings vs Swiss rates
- Swiss AHV contributions may continue if self-employed abroad
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: Switzerland vs Paraguay
Rent Savings
85-90% cheaper than Zurich/Geneva
Compared to major cities in Switzerland
Overall Cost of Living
70-80% lower cost of living
Lower than Switzerland
Specific Examples
- →Zurich rent CHF 2,500 → Asunción CHF 400 (84% savings)
- →Swiss health insurance CHF 400/mo → Paraguay CHF 120/mo
- →Swiss restaurant meal CHF 50 → Asunción CHF 15 (70% savings)
Swiss Expat Community in Paraguay
Community Size
500-1,000 Swiss citizens in Paraguay
Modest Swiss community, often connected to German-speaking expat groups. Swiss-Paraguayan Chamber of Commerce exists.
Where Swiss Live
- Asunción
- German-speaking colonies in Eastern Paraguay
Community Resources
- Swiss-Paraguayan Chamber of Commerce
- German colonies in Eastern Paraguay (Hohenau area)
- Facebook: "Schweizer in Südamerika"
- Swiss Embassy in Asunción (one of few European countries with presence)
Challenges for Swiss
- Long travel distance
- Timezone difference for Swiss clients
- Much less developed infrastructure than Switzerland
- Language barrier (unless in German colonies)
- Miss Swiss efficiency and precision
- Quality and service standards lower
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Swiss citizens need a visa for Paraguay?
No, Swiss citizens can enter Paraguay visa-free for 90 days. To stay longer, apply for temporary residency in Paraguay. Switzerland actually has an embassy in Asunción, which is helpful for consular services.
Is there a Swiss embassy in Paraguay?
Yes! Unlike most European countries, Switzerland has an embassy in Asunción. This is convenient for Swiss citizens needing consular services, passport renewal, or other assistance without traveling to Buenos Aires.
Can I access my Swiss pension from Paraguay?
Swiss AHV (Pillar 1) can be paid abroad. Pillar 2 (occupational pension) and Pillar 3a may have restrictions - some require you to move the funds to a vested benefits account. Consult a Swiss pension specialist before leaving.
Are there German-speaking areas in Paraguay?
Yes, German-speaking colonies in Eastern Paraguay (around Hohenau, Obligado) maintain German language and culture from historical immigration. Swiss Germans often find community here. Asunción also has German clubs and schools.
How much can I save moving from Switzerland to Paraguay?
Expect 70-80% lower cost of living. Zurich rent CHF 2,500/month → Asunción CHF 400. Swiss health insurance CHF 400/month → Paraguay CHF 120. The savings are among the most dramatic from any country.
Calculate Your Residency Costs
Get a personalized estimate for Swiss residency.
Moving from Other Countries
Essential Paraguay Guides
Ready to Make the Move?
Get our complete Asunción settlement guides and start your journey from Switzerland to Paraguay.