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Aggregating global travel advisories

Travel Advisory for Republic of Paraguay

This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Republic of Paraguay from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Republic of Paraguay.

The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-03-24

AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level

Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution

Overview

Paraguay requires a high degree of caution due to prevalent crime, including petty theft, armed robberies, and organized criminal activity, particularly in border regions. Travelers should be vigilant, avoid displaying wealth, and take precautions against health risks like mosquito-borne diseases.

Detailed Advisory Summary

Paraguay presents a complex travel landscape, demanding a high degree of caution from visitors. While generally not overtly hostile, the country grapples with significant levels of crime, ranging from opportunistic petty theft to more serious armed assaults and kidnappings. Organized criminal groups are active, especially along the eastern borders with Brazil and Argentina, involved in drug and arms trafficking. This activity heightens the risk of violent crime in these areas, and while tourists are not typically primary targets, they can be caught in the crossfire.

Travelers are strongly advised to avoid displaying wealth and carrying large sums of cash. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse-snatching are common in urban centers, particularly in Asunción and its surrounding neighborhoods. Muggings, sometimes by armed motorcyclists, can occur day or night. It is crucial to be extra cautious when using ATMs and to never resist in the event of a robbery, as assailants may be armed.

Road safety is a significant concern, with poor road conditions, inadequate lighting, and drivers often disregarding traffic laws. Driving at night is strongly discouraged due to hazards like stray animals and poorly maintained vehicles. Public transportation, while available, can also pose risks due to vehicle maintenance issues and potential exposure to crime.

Health-wise, Paraguay is a risk for mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika virus. Travelers should take preventive measures against insect bites, including using repellent and wearing protective clothing. Other prevalent diseases include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Rabies. Access to quality healthcare is limited outside major cities, and medical facilities often require immediate cash payment.

Entry requirements are generally straightforward for many nationalities, often not requiring a visa for short tourist stays. However, proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if arriving from specific risk areas. It is essential for travelers to be aware of and adhere to local laws, especially concerning drug offenses, which carry severe penalties.

Travelers should also be mindful of potential natural disasters like flooding during the rainy season and wildfires, particularly in certain regions. Demonstrations and roadblocks can occur, leading to disruptions, and travelers are advised to monitor local media and follow authorities' instructions.

Risk Level Summary by Government Source

Source Risk Level Updated Official Link
Global Affairs Canada Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-08-21 View Source →
U.S. Department of State Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-06-26 View Source →
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-07-07 View Source →
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-02-24 View Source →
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-05-18 View Source →
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-08-02 View Source →
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-02-24 View Source →
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-07-21 View Source →
Auswärtiges Amt Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-07-09 View Source →
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Unknown 2026-03-01 View Source →
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-08-10 View Source →
Regjeringen (Norway) Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions 2026-06-01 View Source →
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-08-25 View Source →
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-03-03 View Source →
BMEIA (Austria) Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-03-02 View Source →
0404 (Korea) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-08-04 View Source →
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions 2026-07-20 View Source →

Safety and Security Analysis

Vaccination Information

Required Vaccines

  • Yellow Fever (if arriving from a risk country: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Venezuela or transited through these countries for more than 24 hours)

Recommended for Most Travelers

  • Routine vaccines (MMR, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Varicella, Meningococcal, Seasonal Flu)
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Typhoid

Recommended for Some Travelers

  • Rabies (for high-risk travelers)
  • Malaria prophylaxis (in southeastern departments: Alto Paraná, Canindeyú, Caaguazú, Caazapá, and Guaira)
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Consult a travel health provider for personalized recommendations based on your itinerary. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times, as diseases like Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika, and Yellow Fever are present. Be aware of risks from contaminated food and water.

Visa Information

Visa Types

Type Requirement Stay Limit Cost Conditions Details
Tourist Visa-free 90 days N/A Passport valid for duration of stay
  • Passport Validity: Valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure.
  • Entry Stamp: Ensure passport is stamped upon arrival to avoid fines.
  • Extension: Possible to extend stay for another 90 days via immigration department.
Business Visa required Check Embassy Check Embassy Contact Paraguayan Embassy
  • Visa Requirement: Required for business purposes.
  • Application: Consult the Paraguayan Embassy in your country of residence for specific requirements and procedures.
Work Visa required Check Embassy Check Embassy Contact Paraguayan Embassy
  • Visa Requirement: Required for employment.
  • Application: Consult the Paraguayan Embassy for detailed information on work permits and visa applications.
Student Visa required Check Embassy Check Embassy Contact Paraguayan Embassy
  • Visa Requirement: Required for study purposes.
  • Application: Consult the Paraguayan Embassy for specific requirements related to student visas.

Entry & Legal Compliance

  • Passport Validity Needed: 6 months
  • Blank Pages Required: 1
  • Dual Citizenship Policy: Not recognized
  • Proof Of Onward Travel: May be requested by customs officials
  • Currency Limit Declaration: $10,000 USD
  • Drone Usage Law: Not specified

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 911
  • Ambulance: 141
  • Fire Brigade: 132
  • General Emergency Services: 911

Common Scams & Tourist Traps

  • Virtual Kidnappings: Criminals contact victims demanding immediate payment for a 'kidnapped' relative, using gathered personal information.
  • ATM Scams: Criminals may observe and rob victims after they make withdrawals from ATMs.
  • Drink Spiking: Snacks, beverages, or cigarettes may be drugged, leading to risks of sexual assault and robbery. Be wary of accepting items from new acquaintances and never leave drinks unattended.
  • Fake Banknotes: Counterfeit currency is common; use only registered banks and exchange bureaus.
  • Unregistered Taxis: Passengers may be robbed in unregistered taxis; use licensed companies or ride-hailing apps.
  • Serviceperson Impersonation: Robbers may pose as service people to gain access to homes; always verify appointments directly.

Cultural Etiquette in Republic of Paraguay

Do

  • Greet respectfully: A simple 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' is appreciated.
  • Dress modestly: While casual wear is common, avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Be patient: Paraguayans generally have a more relaxed approach to time; allow for flexibility in schedules.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases: While some English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few Spanish words greatly enhances interaction.
  • Ask permission before photographing people.

Don't

  • Do not display overt wealth: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or displaying large amounts of cash.
  • Do not engage in public displays of affection if you are part of the LGBTQI+ community, as it is not socially accepted.
  • Do not refuse offers of hospitality without a good reason; it can be considered impolite.
  • Do not discuss sensitive political topics unless you are well-versed in the local context.
  • Do not assume everyone speaks English.

Advice by Traveler Profile

Solo Traveler

Exercise a high degree of caution due to crime. Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in urban areas. Stay informed about local conditions and inform someone of your itinerary. Utilize reputable transportation services and secure your belongings diligently.

Female Traveler

Women traveling alone may face harassment or verbal abuse. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and consider using trusted transportation services. Trust your instincts and seek safety if you feel uncomfortable.

Family Traveler

Be aware of specific entry and exit requirements for minors (under 18) traveling alone or with one parent, which require notarized authorization. Ensure children are supervised, especially around water bodies or in crowded areas.

Accessibility

Accessibility for persons with disabilities is extremely difficult as mandated requirements are rarely enforced. Pedestrian paths and transportation access are challenging.

LGBTQ+ Traveler

While same-sex sexual acts are not illegal, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted. Public displays of affection may lead to discrimination. Be discreet and aware of local attitudes.

Business Traveler

Carry valid identification at all times. Be prepared for potential disruptions due to demonstrations or roadblocks. Understand local business etiquette and ensure contracts are thoroughly reviewed by legal counsel.

Digital Nomad

Connectivity can be limited outside urban areas. Be aware of potential power outages affecting work. Secure your devices and personal information, as petty crime is prevalent. Consider travel insurance that covers electronic equipment.

Advisory Comparison by Government Source

Global Affairs Canada

Updated: 2026-08-21
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Canada advises a high degree of caution in Paraguay due to increasing crime. Key risks include frequent petty crime, armed robberies, and potential violence from illegal armed groups like the EPP. Travelers are warned about virtual kidnappings, spiked food/drinks, and demonstrations. Specific safety advice is given for ATMs, avoiding wealth display, and securing belongings. Health risks include visceral leishmaniasis, and travelers should maintain water/food supplies due to potential shortages and power outages. Road safety is poor, and public transport can be risky. Entry requirements include passport validity for 6 months, and minors need parental authorization to leave. Dual citizenship is not legally recognized.

U.S. Department of State

Updated: 2026-06-26
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
The U.S. advises normal precautions, but increased caution in specific departments (Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyu, Concepcion, San Pedro) due to active criminal groups involved in smuggling. U.S. government employees require special authorization for these areas. Crime, including street crime and armed assaults, is prevalent. The Embassy warns against letting unknown service people into homes. Entry requirements include a passport valid at time of entry and one blank page. No visa is needed for stays up to 90 days. Health risks include diarrheal illness and mosquito-borne diseases like Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
France advises vigilance due to reduced embassy staff and potential crisis situations. Travelers are urged to ensure they have adequate insurance and financial means. Risks include frequent petty crime, especially in certain Asunción neighborhoods, and the danger of being armed during assaults. Night travel is discouraged due to poor road conditions and potential floods. The terrorist group EPP is active in specific northern departments. The Chaco region presents natural challenges, requiring preparedness. Entry requires a valid passport, and yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if coming from risk zones.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
The UK advises a high degree of caution due to violent crime. Theft, armed assault, and kidnapping occur, including in tourist areas. Travelers are warned about organized crime, particularly in border regions, and the EPP group operating in the northeast. Demonstrations can lead to roadblocks and delays. Entry requires a passport valid for the duration of the stay, and an entry stamp is crucial to avoid fines. Yellow fever vaccination may be required. Health risks include dengue, chikungunya, and rabies. Medical facilities are limited outside major cities, and upfront payment is expected.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Australia advises a high degree of caution due to violent crime, including theft, armed assault, and kidnapping, even in tourist areas. The EPP operates in the northeast, targeting landowners and occasionally kidnapping individuals. Transnational criminal organizations are active in border regions. Travelers are warned about drink spiking and methanol poisoning. Entry requires a passport valid for the duration of stay, and an entry stamp is mandatory. Yellow fever vaccination is a risk, and other insect-borne and food/waterborne diseases are prevalent. Medical care is limited outside major cities and requires upfront payment.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Spain indicates no specific travel restrictions but urges attention to important issues. Paraguay requires yellow fever vaccination if coming from risk zones, and COVID-19 controls have been lifted. A passport with at least three months' validity is needed, and travelers must obtain an entry receipt to avoid fines upon departure. Minors require authorization to leave. Citizen security is generally acceptable, but there's a recent increase in ordinary crime, especially 'motochorros' (motorcycle thieves). The EPP group operates in the Concepción and San Pedro departments, and Ciudad del Este and Pedro Juan Caballero have higher insecurity due to drug trafficking. Dengue is endemic, and the healthcare system is considered deficient.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Ireland advises a high degree of caution due to increasing violent crime. Risks include theft, armed assault, and kidnapping, with sensible precautions recommended such as not carrying all credit cards together and avoiding ATMs after dark. The north-eastern provinces (Amambay and Canindeyú) are noted for smuggling and violence. Driving requires an Irish license and IDP, with strict drunk-driving laws. Health risks include Zika virus, Yellow Fever, Malaria (in specific southeastern departments), and Dengue Fever. Local laws regarding illegal drugs have harsh penalties.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Japan issues Level 2 (Avoid Non-essential Travel) for specific areas in Concepción, San Pedro, and Amambay departments due to anti-government armed groups like EPP and ACA, and associated violent crimes including kidnappings. Level 1 (Exercise Caution) applies to Asunción and border cities with Brazil and Argentina due to risks from robbery and drug-related crimes. Crime rates are very high compared to Japan, with an increase in robberies and theft. The report details specific incidents involving Japanese nationals. Entry requires a passport with 6+ months validity and a Yellow Fever certificate if arriving from listed risk countries.

Auswärtiges Amt

Updated: 2026-07-09
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
New Zealand is not issuing a specific travel advisory for Paraguay at this time but advises New Zealanders to have comprehensive medical and travel insurance, including for medical evacuation. The nearest New Zealand office is in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This lack of a specific advisory suggests a general awareness of risks without an elevated threat level compared to other advisories. Travelers should still exercise caution and stay informed through local authorities and social media.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Switzerland advises caution due to social, political, and economic tensions, with potential for demonstrations, strikes, and violence. Roadblocks are frequent, causing traffic disruptions. Terrorist risk cannot be excluded. Specific areas like the departments of Concepción and San Pedro are discouraged for non-urgent travel due to armed criminal groups and the EPP, which has engaged in kidnappings and murders. The border zone with Brazil and Argentina, particularly Amambay, is also discouraged due to drug trafficking violence and increased crime. High crime rates are reported, with recommended precautions including avoiding valuables and not resisting in case of assault.

Regjeringen (Norway)

Updated: 2026-06-01
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution

Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)

Updated: 2026-03-03
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Italy advises maximum prudence, particularly in Ciudad del Este and Asunción's historic center, due to increasing common crime, petty theft, and muggings. The risk of violent incidents linked to drug trafficking and landless farmer protests exists. The possession of firearms by a significant portion of the population increases the risk of violence. Entry requires a passport with a minimum 6-month validity; no visa is needed for tourist stays up to 90 days. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from specific risk countries. Healthcare is acceptable in private facilities in the capital, but emergency repatriation services are not available locally.

BMEIA (Austria)

Updated: 2026-03-02
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution

0404 (Korea)

Updated: 2026-08-04
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Finland advises normal caution, but careful consideration for travel to northern Paraguay due to potential unrest and violence. Crime is present, especially at night in Asunción's old town, and armed robberies can occur even during the day. Long-distance buses, such as the São Paulo–Asunción route, are targets for robbery. Drug crime and gang confrontations are noted, particularly near the Brazilian border. The road network is poor, and night driving is not recommended. Dengue and Chikungunya are present, and yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from risk areas. Penalties for drug offenses are severe.

Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.

About Travel Advisories for Republic of Paraguay

This comprehensive travel advisory page for Republic of Paraguay aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.

The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Republic of Paraguay.

By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Republic of Paraguay and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.

Last updated: 2026-03-24