Paraguay — Visas and Healthcare
Passports and Visas
Those requiring visas must apply to the nearest Paraguayan consulate. It is advised that travelers have six months' validity on their passports. Immigration officials may impose restrictions other than those officially stated.
Americans
United States citizens require a passport and a visa to enter Paraguay.
UK Nationals
British citizens require a passport and a visa to enter Paraguay.
Canadians
Canadians require a passport and a visa to enter Paraguay.
Australians
Australians require a passport and a visa to enter Paraguay.
South Africans
South African citizens require a passport and a visa to enter Paraguay.
Irish Nationals
Citizens of Ireland require a passport and a visa to enter Paraguay.
New Zealanders
New Zealand citizens require a passport and a visa to enter Paraguay.
Healthcare
Paraguay has several health risks for visitors, especially those who intend touring the countryside and having contact with the local population. Typhoid vaccination is recommended for all except those who do not plan to eat outside of major restaurants and hotels, or cruise passengers, as diseases from food and water are the leading cause of illness in travelers, and the most common cause of 'traveler's diarrhoea'. Visitors should not drink water unless it has been purified, and avoid any food that is not freshly prepared and well cooked. Be cautious of food and beverages from street vendors. A Yellow fever vaccination is compulsory for anyone arriving from an infected country, and recommended for all travelers. Malaria is endemic to certain regions of Paraguay, namely the departments of Alto Paraná, Caaguazú, and Canendiyú. A major outbreak of dengue fever occurred in early 2007, with many deaths having been reported, including in the capital, Asuncion. Dengue fever is on the increase. Insect protection measures are essential, and malaria prevention tablets recommended. Hospitals, pharmacies and medical facilities in Asuncion are adequate, but elsewhere in the country are unsanitary and under-equipped. In the event of serious illness, evacuation to a country with better facilities will be necessary, therefore travel health insurance is highly recommended. Doctors and hospitals usually expect payment in cash.
Safety
Most visits to Paraguay are trouble-free, but visitors should note that incidents of violent crime are on the increase, particularly armed robbery in Asuncion, Ciudad del Este and Pedro Juan Caballero. Visitors should take sensible precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash, wearing visible jewelry or displaying valuables, particularly when walking the streets or using public transport. Those who travel around the country should note that there are often military and police document check points in operation and public gatherings sometimes turn violent and are best avoided.
