Paraguay SUACE Residency: 2026 Investor Fast-Track Guide
Skip the 2-year temporary residency wait. Paraguay's SUACE one-stop-shop program grants immediate permanent residency to investors who commit $70,000 over 10 years and create 5 local jobs. Here's everything you need to know about the fastest path to a Paraguayan cédula.
What is SUACE?
SUACE stands for Sistema Unificado de Apertura y Cierre de Empresas (Unified System for Opening and Closing of Companies). It is Paraguay's one-stop administrative interface that integrates the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC), the National Directorate of Migration, and the tax authorities into a single coordinated workflow.
One-Stop Shop
Instead of navigating the MIC for business licensing, Migration for residency, and the Ministry of Interior for security clearances as separate entities, SUACE centralizes everything into one coordinated process.
- - Business registration and licensing
- - Investor certificate issuance
- - Migration residency processing
- - Tax authority coordination
Legal Foundation
The SUACE program is backed by Law No. 6984/2022, which reformed Paraguay's investment migration framework. It eliminated the old passive deposit-based residency and replaced it with this value-driven investment model.
- - Article 46 provides the legal basis
- - Exemption from 2-year temporary requirement
- - Immediate permanent residency for investors
- - Tied to genuine economic contribution
Why SUACE Exists
Paraguay shifted from "passive" residency options (like the old $5,000 bank deposit) to "active" investment residency. The goal is to attract "smart capital" — investors who create real jobs and establish operational substance in a growing economy, not just passport collectors.
SUACE vs. Traditional Residency Route
| Feature | Traditional Two-Step | SUACE Investor |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Status | Temporary Residency (2 years) | Immediate Permanent Residency |
| Path to PR | After 21 months of temporary | Granted on initial approval |
| Investment Required | None (solvency focus) | $70,000 over 10 years |
| Job Creation | Not applicable | Minimum 5 local employees |
| Processing Speed | 90-120 days for temporary | 10-15 days (Investor Certificate) |
| Cédula Validity | 2 years (renewable) | 10 years (renewable) |
| Trips Required | 2-3 trips over 2.5 years | 1 trip (or 3 for full ID) |
| Lawyer Cost | $1,400-1,600 | $3,000-5,000 |
| Best For | Digital nomads, no business needed | Serious investors, "Plan B" seekers |
Which Route Should You Choose?
The traditional route suits digital nomads and remote workers who don't want to operate a formal business in Paraguay. The SUACE route is for investors who want immediate permanent residency and are prepared to establish a real business with employees. For many high-net-worth individuals, bypassing the 2-year temporary phase is the decisive factor.
Investment Requirements
The $70,000 Commitment
The investment is not an upfront lump sum. It is a commitment to capital expenditure over a 10-year horizon, designed to foster sustainable business growth.
- $70,000 total spread over 10 years (~$7,000/year)
- Includes office leases, equipment, salaries, marketing
- No upfront proof of full $70,000 required
- Business assets and equipment count toward total
The 5-Employee Requirement
Creating 5 formal jobs is a non-negotiable pillar of the program. "Formal" means employees registered with IPS (Instituto de Prevision Social).
- 5 employees registered with IPS (social security)
- Must pay social security contributions monthly
- Minimum wage is affordable (~$350-400/month per employee)
- Verified by MIC inspections — must be real employees
Film & Creative Industry Incentive
Investors who fund Paraguayan film productions or creative service exports can qualify for immediate permanent residency with a reduced investment threshold. However, these applicants must demonstrate higher personal liquidity in verifiable savings to ensure they can sustain themselves without relying on immediate profits from the project.
Total Cost Breakdown for SUACE
Document Requirements
The SUACE dossier must be assembled from three distinct sources: your country of origin, your country of residence (if different), and local Paraguayan authorities.
From Your Home Country (Apostilled)
Federal Criminal Background Check
US: FBI report (state-level NOT accepted). Cost: $18, processing 3-5 weeks.
UK: ACRO Police Certificate with wet ink signature.
Must be apostilled at federal level.
Vital Records
Original birth certificate, marriage/divorce decrees if applicable. Must be recently issued (within 3-6 months) and apostilled in the jurisdiction of issuance.
Valid Passport
At least 6 months validity beyond your planned arrival date. Color copies required for the dossier.
SUACE Business Plan
Structured timeline for the $70,000 disbursement, including IPS contribution projections for 5 employees. Must align with Paraguay's strategic sectors.
Obtained in Paraguay
Interpol Background Check
Issued by the regional Interpol office in Asuncion (Cnel. Gracia). Cost: ~$18. Includes fingerprinting and criminal history report.
National Police IT Check
Certificado de Antecedentes para Extranjeros obtained at Av. Mcal. Lopez. Local police record for foreigners.
Sworn Translations
All non-Spanish documents must be translated by a locally certified Traductor Publico Jurado. Home country translations are NOT accepted. Cost: $500-1,000 for full dossier.
Sworn Declaration
Declaracion Jurada promising to abide by Paraguayan laws and fulfill the investment commitment. Signed with legal counsel.
Critical Warning: Do not use translations performed in your home country. Paraguay's Migration Directorate and SUACE office strictly require that all non-Spanish documents be translated by a locally certified Traductor Publico Jurado. This is the most common point of failure for independent applicants.
Step-by-Step SUACE Process
Phase 1: First Week in Asuncion
Arrive early — the Migration Department at Caballero and Elianne fills up fast by 07:00.
- Document Finalization (Day 1-2) — Meet with legal counsel, sign the Declaracion Jurada, review all documents
- Local Clearances (Day 2-3) — Visit Interpol office (Cnel. Gracia) and Police IT Department (Av. Mcal. Lopez) for fingerprinting and criminal history reports
- MIC/SUACE Filing (Day 3-4) — Submit business plan and investor file to SUACE office at MIC (Cap. Pedro Villamayor and Teofilo Del Puerto). Hours: Mon-Fri, 07:00-15:00
- Migration Submission (Day 4-5) — Once MIC issues the Constancia de Inversionista, submit final file to Migraciones. Receive Comprobante de Ingreso (proof of legal stay)
Phase 2: Approval (45-90 Days)
You can leave Paraguay during this period. Your lawyer handles follow-ups.
- Processing Period — Permanent residency typically approved within 45-90 days. Can stretch to 120 days during backlogs
- Precarious Residence Card (optional) — Valid for 90 days, authorizes lawful residence while permanent card is finalized
- Permanent Resident Card — Carnet de Radicacion issued, valid for 10 years and renewable decennially
Phase 3: Cédula & Tax Registration
Requires a second trip to Asuncion for biometrics.
- Cédula Application — Visit Departamento de Identificaciones on Avenida Boggiani. 2026 biometric cédula includes electronic chip. Essential for banking and business operations
- RUC Tax Registration — Obtain your Registro Unico del Contribuyente from the tax authority (SET). Can be completed within 10 days of receiving the cédula
- Bank Account Opening — With your cédula and Constancia de Inversionista, open full business and personal accounts
Fiscal Integration: Taxes & RUC
For many investors, the SUACE residency is the first component of a larger tax optimization strategy. Paraguay's territorial tax system is a rarity in 2026, offering significant advantages.
| Tax Category | 2026 Rate | Foreign Income |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Income Tax (IRP) | 10% flat | Exempt (0%) |
| Corporate Income Tax (IRE) | 10% flat | Exempt (0%) |
| Value Added Tax (IVA) | 10% standard | N/A to foreign exports |
| Dividend Tax (IDU) | 15% | Varies by source/treaty |
| Wealth / Inheritance Tax | 0% | Globally exempt |
Mandatory Monthly Filings
Paraguay requires monthly tax filings even for those whose income is entirely foreign-sourced or who have "no movement" (sin movimiento). Failure to file can result in fines and RUC freezing, which blocks bank account access.
Cost: A local accountant for "no movement" filings costs approximately $50-100 per month — an essential maintenance cost of the residency.
US Citizens: Tax Obligations
The US taxes citizens on worldwide income regardless of residence. While Paraguay charges 0% on foreign income, US citizens must still file FBAR (if foreign accounts exceed $10,000), FATCA (Form 8938), and regular US tax returns. No US-Paraguay tax treaty exists.
This is general information, not tax advice. Consult a cross-border tax advisor.
Banking Setup for SUACE Investors
Source of Wealth Requirements Are Rigorous
Opening a bank account in Paraguay in 2026 is no longer simple. Banks are obligated under SEPRELAD rules to verify that all inbound transfers are legitimate and consistent with your business plan. Investors from "high-risk" jurisdictions face additional scrutiny.
Documents Banks Will Request
- Escritura Publica — Articles of Incorporation of your company
- Constancia de Inversionista — MIC-issued investor certificate
- Life & Residency Certificate — Obtained from your neighborhood police station
- Cédula — Your national ID card (essential for full banking access)
- Source of Wealth documentation — Tax returns, pay stubs, investment records
Recommended Banks for Investors
Banco GNB
Strong compliance infrastructure, good for international transfers
Banco Familiar
Experience with expat accounts, multiple branches in Asuncion
Banco Atlas
Corporate banking focus, suitable for SUACE business accounts
Itau Paraguay
International bank, familiar with cross-border compliance
Family Inclusion
The SUACE program is highly flexible regarding family units, recognizing the importance of relocating the entire "economic core" of the investor. Family members receive the same permanent residency status as the main applicant.
Spouses & Partners
- - Formal marriage certificate is the "gold standard" for smooth processing
- - Common-law partners (union de hecho) recognized to some extent
- - Spouse receives same PR status as main applicant
- - Must appear in person for biometrics at Migration office
Children & Siblings
- Under 14: No criminal background check needed from home country
- Ages 14-17: Must provide same apostilled criminal records as adults
- Adult children (under 30): Can be included if unmarried and financially dependent (e.g., students)
- Siblings: Unmarried siblings can be included — a uniquely generous Paraguayan policy
Important: Physical presence of all family members is required at the Migration office for biometrics. There are no exceptions for remote biometric collection. Plan family travel accordingly.
Path to Citizenship (3 Years)
For many investors, the SUACE residency is a precursor to Paraguayan citizenship and a second passport. Paraguay offers one of the most straightforward naturalization processes in South America — but the 2026 judiciary has become more vigilant about "genuine ties."
| Requirement | 2026 Standard |
|---|---|
| Residency Time | 3 years of permanent residency |
| Physical Presence | 6-9+ months/year recommended ("Center of Life" test) |
| Language Test | Basic Spanish or Guarani proficiency |
| National Anthem | Knowledge of lyrics and history |
| Economic Links | Continued operation of SUACE company |
| Criminal Record | Clean local and international record |
| Process Type | Judicial (Supreme Court), not administrative |
Residency vs. Citizenship Presence
A critical strategic nuance: your PR card only requires a visit every 3 years to remain valid. But the Supreme Court may reject a citizenship petition if you haven't spent significant time in-country (6-9+ months/year). Maintaining residency and qualifying for citizenship have different standards.
De Facto Dual Citizenship
Paraguay officially allows dual citizenship only through reciprocity treaties (e.g., with Spain). However, in practice many foreigners obtain Paraguayan citizenship without being forced to formally renounce their original nationality. The Paraguayan court accepts a sworn statement for the local application. This "de facto" dual citizenship is a primary draw for investors.
For detailed citizenship information, see our Paraguay citizenship guide.
Risks & Pitfalls to Avoid
The "Ghost Company" Risk
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has intensified inspections of SUACE-registered businesses in 2026. If you obtain PR through a business plan but fail to actually register a company or hire employees within the first year, you risk a permanent ban from residency renewals and potential revocation of your permanent residency status. The SUACE program demands "substance over shadow."
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Scrutiny
Paraguay is under significant pressure from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and GAFILAT to combat money laundering. Investors from "high-risk" jurisdictions or those who cannot prove a transparent trail for their $70,000 investment will face significant banking delays, even with a cédula in hand. All inbound transfers must be consistent with your business plan.
Document Expiry During Processing
Processing can stretch to 120 days during DGM backlogs. If your foreign police report was already 5 months old at filing, it may expire before the adjudicator reviews the file. This triggers a "Request for Evidence" (RFE) that stalls the process by several more months. Time your FBI or ACRO reports to be as fresh as possible upon arrival.
Professional Recommendations
- Always use a locally licensed lawyer and accountant. The nuances of the "Project Profile" and IPS registration are too granular for remote management.
- Coordinate document timelines carefully. Ensure FBI/ACRO reports are timed to be as fresh as possible when you arrive in Asuncion.
- Prepare for substance. Even a small consulting firm can satisfy SUACE requirements if it maintains 5 employees and files taxes diligently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SUACE program in Paraguay?
SUACE (Sistema Unificado de Apertura y Cierre de Empresas) is Paraguay's one-stop-shop investor residency program that offers immediate permanent residency for a $70,000 investment commitment over 10 years with 5 local jobs. It integrates the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Migration, and tax authorities into a single streamlined process.
How much does SUACE residency cost?
$70,000 investment spread over 10 years (approximately $7,000/year). This can include office leases, equipment, salaries, and marketing costs. Additional fees: immigration lawyer $3,000-$5,000, translations $500-$1,000, and government filing fees. No upfront lump-sum deposit is required.
How fast is the SUACE process?
The Investor Certificate (Constancia de Inversionista) is issued in 10-15 days. Full permanent residency approval typically takes 45-90 days. This is significantly faster than the traditional route, which requires 2 years of temporary residency before converting to permanent.
Do I need a real business for SUACE?
Yes. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC) inspects SUACE businesses. You must register a company, hire 5 IPS-registered employees, and maintain real operations. Ghost companies risk permanent residency revocation and a ban on future applications. The business plan must show viable operations.
Can I include my family in the SUACE application?
Yes. Spouses, children under 30 (if financially dependent), and even unmarried siblings can be included. Children under 14 do not need criminal background checks; children 14-17 need the same adult documents. All family members must appear in person for biometrics at the Migration office.
Can I get citizenship through SUACE?
Yes. After 3 years of permanent residency, you can apply for Paraguayan citizenship. It is a judicial process handled by the Supreme Court. Requirements include physical presence (6-9+ months/year recommended), basic Spanish or Guarani proficiency, knowledge of the national anthem, and a clean criminal record.
What is the difference between SUACE and regular residency?
Regular residency starts with a 2-year temporary visa (no investment needed) before converting to permanent after 21 months. SUACE grants immediate permanent residency but requires a $70,000 investment over 10 years and creation of 5 jobs. SUACE also gives a 10-year cedula versus a 2-year one for temporary residents.
Do I need to live in Paraguay with SUACE residency?
Your permanent residency card stays valid with just one visit every 3 years. However, tax residency requires 120+ days per year in Paraguay, and citizenship qualification requires 6-9+ months per year of physical presence. The distinction between maintaining residency and qualifying for citizenship is important.
Related Guides
Paraguay Residency Guide
Complete guide to temporary and permanent residency, including the traditional route.
Paraguay Tax Guide
Territorial taxation, RUC registration, and 0% foreign income tax explained.
Banking in Paraguay
How to open accounts, banking requirements, and digital options.
Crypto Tax in Paraguay
How cryptocurrency is taxed under Paraguay's territorial system.
Shipping to Paraguay
How to ship belongings, customs regulations, and logistics tips.
Paraguay Citizenship
Path to naturalization after 3 years of permanent residency.
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