Paraguay Is Now Visa-Free for Filipinos

Travel to South America still isn’t exactly plug-and-play for Filipinos, but there’s now one less requirement to think about. In a decree dated December 29, 2025, Paraguay has officially removed visa requirements for Philippine passport holders, allowing stays of up to 30 days without applying for a separate entry visa.

While travelers will still need to plan carefully for long routes and possible transit visas due to the lack of direct flights from Manila, the change simplifies the final leg of the journey—and makes Paraguay a more accessible stop for both leisure and short business trips.

According to El Heraldo Paraguayo, Paraguay’s Executive Branch has eliminated visa requirements for citizens of the Philippines and Malaysia for stays of up to 30 days. The policy was adopted through a presidential decree and follows the principle of reciprocity, as Paraguayans have long been able to visit both countries visa-free for short stays.

Aside from convenience, the decision carries broader implications. The outlet notes that the visa exemption comes at a time when Paraguay is positioning itself as a more globally integrated economy, particularly as it looks toward Asia as a strategic partner for trade, tourism, and investment. By reducing entry barriers, the country aims to encourage initial visits from tourists, entrepreneurs, and short-term business travelers who might otherwise be discouraged by administrative requirements.

The move also aligns with the current administration’s foreign policy direction, which emphasizes predictability, openness, and stronger ties with Asian nations. While the impact may not be immediate or dramatic, the decree adds to a series of steps designed to expand Paraguay’s international reach beyond its traditional regional sphere.

The visa-free status is also reflected on the Paraguay government’s Dirección Nacional de Migraciones website. Under Decree No. 5,219 dated December 29, 2025, Filipinos are listed as not requiring a visa for stays of up to 30 days.

There are currently no direct flights between the Philippines and Paraguay, so travelers should be prepared for multiple layovers and long travel times. Depending on the route, total journey time can range from 30 to as much as 50 hours.

Major airlines commonly used for these routes include Emirates, KLM, Etihad Airways, LATAM, Copa Airlines, and United Airlines. Layovers often pass through the United States or European hubs, which may require transit visas depending on your passport and routing.

Before booking, it’s best to double-check transit requirements for every stop on your itinerary to keep your trip running smoothly.