Paraguay Customs Guide Household Goods, Vehicles, Pets & Restricted Items

Important: This Paraguay customs guide provides essential information for individuals and families planning international moving, relocation to Paraguay, or the import of personal effects. Import rules are overseen by the Dirección Nacional de Aduanas (DNA) — Paraguay’s National Customs Directorate.

Home To Home Relocations assists clients relocating from Toronto, the GTA and across Canada with international moves to Paraguay, supporting export packing, ocean/air freight, customs documentation and delivery to Asunción, Ciudad del Este, Encarnación and other regions.

1. Moving to Paraguay – Key Customs Overview

1.1 Who Can Import Household Goods Duty-Free?

Duty-free import of used household goods may be granted for:

Returning Paraguayan citizens (after 2+ years abroad)
Foreign nationals with Temporary or Permanent Residence
Diplomatic and official personnel

Important: Tourists, retirees without residency status, and short-term visitors cannot import goods duty-free.

1.2 Goods Must Be Used & Previously Owned

All items must be used, previously owned and clearly non-commercial. New items, high-value electronics and luxury goods may incur duty and inspection.

1.3 Shipment Timing

Goods should arrive within the time period allowed after the owner’s entry into Paraguay. Customs may require proof of entry and residency status.

2. Used Household Goods & Personal Effects

2.1 Required Documentation

Passport copy
Residence visa (temporary or permanent)
Bill of lading / air waybill
Detailed packing list (preferably in Spanish)
Customs declaration forms for DNA
Power of Attorney for customs broker

2.2 Inventory Requirements

List all electronics with brand, model and serial number
Clearly indicate used status — new items face duties
Inventory should be organized and preferably translated to Spanish
High-value items may require supporting proof of ownership

H-H Relocations Tip: DNA frequently inspects shipments with poor documentation. A clean, detailed Spanish-language inventory helps avoid delays.

3. Importing Motor Vehicles into Paraguay

3.1 Vehicle Import Rules

Paraguay allows the import of vehicles but applies strict conditions, especially regarding age, emissions and taxes.

Used vehicles older than the legally permitted year are prohibited
Duties and taxes vary based on value, age and engine size
Returning citizens may receive tax benefits for one vehicle
Foreign residents may import a vehicle under certain visa categories

3.2 Required Documents for Vehicles

Original title/registration
Purchase invoice
Bill of lading
Passport and residence permit
Compliance documents for emissions and safety

Important: Tax obligations for vehicles in Paraguay can be substantial. Always verify current regulations before planning shipment.

4. Bringing Pets to Paraguay

Paraguay permits the import of pets, but strict veterinary rules apply under SENACSA (Servicio Nacional de Calidad y Salud Animal).

4.1 Pet Import Requirements

International veterinary health certificate
Rabies vaccination certificate
Microchip recommended
Inspection by SENACSA officials upon arrival

Pet Travel Tip: Documents should be completed close to departure and may need Spanish translation. Incomplete veterinary paperwork can result in quarantine.

5. Alcohol, Tobacco, Food & Restricted Goods

5.1 Alcohol

Alcohol imported within a household goods shipment is subject to duty and must be fully declared. Paraguay Customs (DNA) may seize undeclared alcohol or apply fines. It is recommended to avoid including alcohol in personal effects shipments.

5.2 Tobacco

Tobacco products may only be imported in personal-use quantities. Commercial-level quantities are strictly prohibited without licensing.

5.3 Food & Agricultural Products

Paraguay enforces strict agricultural regulations to protect livestock and crops. SENACSA (National Animal Health Service) prohibits the following in personal effects:

Fresh fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, fish, dairy or eggs
Seeds, plants, soil or untreated wood
Pet food containing animal-origin ingredients

5.4 Medicines, Chemicals & Controlled Goods

Prescription medications require a doctor’s letter and original packaging
Chemicals or laboratory materials require prior authorization
Weapons, ammunition and explosives require special federal permits
Cultural or archaeological items may require documentation from Paraguayan authorities

Important: SENACSA inspections are detailed and strict. Improperly declared agricultural items may be confiscated and may delay full clearance.

6. Prohibited Items – Do Not Ship to Paraguay

Paraguay prohibits the importation of the following in personal effects shipments:

Illegal drugs and narcotics
Weapons, ammunition and explosives (without proper permits)
Fresh food, plants, seeds and soil
Pornographic or obscene materials
Hazardous chemical substances
Counterfeit or pirated items
Multiple identical electronics or appliances (commercial suspicion)
New or unopened goods not declared separately

DNA and SENACSA jointly enforce prohibited goods rules. Violations can result in confiscation, penalties or customs delays.

7. Practical Tips for International Moves to Paraguay

7.1 Moving from Toronto or the GTA

For a smooth international move from Canada to Paraguay, Home To Home Relocations recommends:

Prepare a detailed Spanish-language inventory
List all electronics by brand, model and serial number
Avoid packing new or unopened goods
Confirm residency status before shipment arrival
Expect customs inspection at Asunción Port or airport

7.2 Why choose a Paraguay relocation specialist

Paraguay’s customs regulations are precise and documentation-heavy. Working with an experienced international moving company ensures:

Correct DNA declarations and supporting documents
Reduced inspection delays and penalties
Guidance on restricted electronics and valuables
Coordinated door-to-door delivery throughout Paraguay

Relocation Tip: The most common cause of delay is incomplete or inaccurate inventory documentation. Ensure all lists match exactly and are translated into Spanish.

8. Useful Official Links – Paraguay

Use these official government resources for up-to-date customs regulations:

This guide supports individuals relocating to Paraguay. Final import approval is determined by DNA and SENACSA officials.