Those requiring visas must apply to the nearest Paraguayan consulate.
Americans: United States citizens require a passport and a visa to enter
Paraguay.
UK nationals: British citizens require a passport, but no visa is needed to enter Paraguay for a tourist stay of up to 90 days.
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 Africans require a passport, but no visa is needed for a visit to Paraguay of up to
90 days.
Irish nationals: Citizens of
Ireland require a passport, but no visa is needed to visit Paraguay for a tourist stay of up to 90 days.
New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens require a passport and a visa to enter Paraguay.
Health
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. Yellow fever vaccination is compulsory for anyone arriving from an infected country, and recommended for all travelers. Malaria is endemic to Paraguay, and 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. 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. 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.
