Bank account in Paraguay for foreigners
Opening an account at a Paraguayan bank usually requires local documents and proof of income or of the source of funds. Each bank has its own policy, and the decision always belongs to the bank.
What banks usually ask for
In general, banks ask for the Paraguayan ID card, proof of address, and proof of income or of the source of funds. Some ask for a RUC. The list changes from bank to bank.
Opening an account from your phone with the cédula
If you already have the Paraguayan ID card (cédula), you can open an account from your phone, without going to a branch. The country's three largest banks by deposits (Continental, Sudameris and Itaú, according to a May 2026 ranking) offer digital accounts: Continental asks only for the cédula for its Cuenta Básica, opened in the Contimóvil app, while Itaú and Sudameris ask for a valid Paraguayan cédula and a selfie. ueno, a digital bank, states that you only need your cédula at hand to open a savings account (caja de ahorro) in minutes. Without the cédula, it is generally not possible. The banks' websites do not cover foreigners separately, and rules, limits and fees change: check the official websites before you start.
The order that usually works
Temporary residency under Law 6.984/2022 or permanent residency, then the ID card and, when your activity calls for it, the RUC. Temporary residency through Mercosur does not give the right to the ID card, so it is not enough to open an account. With these documents in hand, the conversation with the bank is simpler.
Price
Help opening your bank account is free for Legaliza Paraguay clients. If you are not a client yet, it has its own evaluation and quote, presented before you hire us.
How Legaliza Paraguay helps
- Evaluation of your profile before you go to the bank.
- Organization of the documents the bank asks for.
- Coordination with the residency, ID card, and RUC services.
Official fees are separate and paid by the client. This guidance does not decide the application and does not promise approval or a timeline.
Questions
Can a foreigner open a bank account in Paraguay?
Yes, as long as you meet the bank's policy. With residency under Law 6.984/2022 and the ID card, you can open an account at several banks in Paraguay. Temporary residency through Mercosur does not give the right to the ID card. The decision always belongs to the bank.
Can I open an account from my phone?
Yes, if you already have the Paraguayan ID card (cédula). Continental, Itaú, Sudameris and the digital bank ueno open accounts through their app or website, with the cédula and, in some cases, a selfie, without going to a branch. Without the cédula, it is generally not possible. The decision always belongs to the bank.
Do I need a RUC?
It depends on the bank and on your activity. RUC has its own page on this site.
How much does the assistance cost?
It is free for Legaliza Paraguay clients. If you are not a client yet, the assistance has its own quote, presented before you hire us.
Check the current rules on the official pages. They can change.
Request an evaluation
Leave your name and WhatsApp. The team replies on WhatsApp with initial guidance and the plan that fits your case. Do not send personal documents here.