Tree
Avoid mistakes, proven solutions

Setting up a company in Paraguay?

Find out how to do it in a legally compliant way:
1% tax on export income
10% corporation tax
Not on the EU blacklist
Low-tax jurisdiction
You can reduce your tax burden legally. We will be happy to advise you in depth and offer a free initial consultation.
Watch video
Person
Ask a Question
(Response time under 24 hours):

Pros and cons of setting up a company abroad

If you relocate your residence:
  • Foreign income is generally not taxed in Paraguay
  • Double tax treaty network is limited
  • Your home country may tax certain assets when you relocate
Without emigrating:
  • If the company is managed from the EU, it may be taxed there
  • A clear structure and proper documentation needed
What makes Paraguay attractive as a business location?

Paraguay has ~7 million people, uses the guaraní (PYG), and is a Mercosur member providing access to key South American markets

The tax system is often referred to as the 10-10-10”:

  • Corporate income tax (IRE): 10% (Paraguayan-source only)

  • VAT (IVA): 10% standard / 5% reduced

  • Personal income tax: capped at 10%

  • Profit distribution: 8% (residents), 15% (non-residents)

Paraguay follows the territorial principle, only local income is taxed. The Maquila regime offers 1% taxation on value added, and free trade zones provide VAT advantages.

Common legal entities: S.A. and E.A.S. (faster, flexible). 100% foreign ownership allowed, though a local legal representative is typically needed. Incorporation can take days to weeks, but opening a bank account is slower due to KYC.

Paraguay is not on the EU’s 2026 blacklist. However, for EU-resident HNWIs, tax effectiveness requires a genuine tax residence shift, effective management, and economic substance.

Contact us for an individual analysis and, where appropriate, better alternative solutions.

FAQs

Is it easy to obtain a VAT/IVA number?

Paraguay uses the IVA system. Registration is generally straightforward provided you have proper documentation, an RUC number and a clearly traceable business activity. Rates: 10% standard, 5% reduced.

Is a local managing director required?

Foreign ownership is possible. In practice, however, a local legal representative is required for tax and administrative purposes.

Plenty of banking options?

There are established local and regional banks. Account opening is compliance-heavy. RUC, KYC, source-of-funds evidence and a clear business description are required.

Blacklist?

Paraguay is not on the EU list of non-cooperative jurisdictions.

Is remote incorporation possible?

Company formation can be handled via local service providers. Depending on the bank, the bank account may require personal presence or increased substance requirements.

Incorporation timeline?

With the E.A.S., fast procedures of a few days up to about a week are possible. Traditional structures and banking processes can extend the overall timeline.

Which locations worldwide are best suited to paying as little tax as possible?
Tax Burden Banking Reputation Bureaucracy Legal Security Costs
USA 21-0%
from EUR 1,900
Singapore 0%
from EUR 2,950
Hong Kong 0%
from EUR 1,900
Cyprus 15%
from EUR 1,900
Malta 5%
from EUR 2,500
Ireland 12,5%
from EUR 1,950
Trust 0%
from EUR 4,900
England 25-19%
from EUR 1,000

Tax compliance in your country of residence

Your country of residence may impose tax and reporting obligations for foreign business activities and dividend income — in some cases even if profits are not distributed.

Depending on your personal circumstances, a suitable holding structure may be required to comply with tax rules and avoid unnecessary tax risks.

To determine which jurisdiction and structure best meet your requirements, please use the contact form and describe your plans in as much detail as possible.

Our advisers will be happy to review your case and advise you accordingly.

1.
Analyse your needs
We assess your situation to define objectives, risk tolerance, tax exposure and asset-protection priorities.
2.
Carry out a location analysis
We compare potential jurisdictions based on tax law, banking access, compliance requirements and your country of residence.
3.
Incorporate the company and, if needed, establish a foundation
Open accounts and custody accounts and, where required, implement asset management.

Our advantages

Tax optimisation
Tax optimisation
Legally reduce your tax burden by 50–85% domestically and internationally.
Sustainable asset protection
Sustainable asset protection
Protect your assets over the long term against economic and legal risks.
Cross-border business models
Cross-border business models
Develop international corporate structures for greater economic freedom.
Corporate structuring & company formation
Corporate structuring & company formation
Optimise your corporate and participation structures for growth and tax savings.
Foundations & asset management
Foundations & asset management
Use tailored foundation structures for future generations.
Emigration & exit taxation
Emigration & exit taxation
We support your change of residence and help you avoid exit taxation.
Personal advice & implementation
Personal advice & implementation
Bespoke solutions with personal support from analysis through to implementation.
Exclusive expert network
Exclusive expert network
Access to experienced tax advisers, solicitors and international business experts.

How our clients have successfully reduced their tax burden with our strategies

Comprehensive personal advice with a great result!
Conversation in Nice with our long-standing client Marco about our collaboration to date.
Marco V.
Marco V.
Conversation with Andreas Schneider
Andreas relocated to Switzerland many years ago and shares his experiences of Switzerland and of us as his trusted partner throughout the journey.
Andreas S.

W-V Law Firm LLP

Your partner for corporate law, foundations, banking and expansion
Successfully established in the market since 2013.
Advised and supported more than 2,000 clients
Advised and supported more than 2,000 clients
Leading law firm in the European region
Leading law firm in the European region
Always solution-focused and personally available
Always solution-focused and personally available