Paraguay (Republic of)

Paraguay (Republic of)

History of Relations

Paraguay and South Africa have a relative long history of bilateral relations dating back to the previous political dispensations in both countries. Paraguay maintains a residential Embassy in Pretoria. The South African Embassy in Asunción was closed in December 1996 and the Resident Ambassador to Argentina was subsequently also appointed as non-Resident Ambassador to Paraguay. South Africa has appointed an Honorary Consul in Paraguay.

Mr Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa, met Mr Juan Carlos Wasmosy, former President of Paraguay at the XIV MERCOSUR Heads of State Summit Meeting in July 1998, held at Ushuaia, Argentina. In March 2004, the former South African Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Ngconde Balfour, paid an official visit to Paraguay and a Letter of Intent in cooperation in the field of Sport and Recreation was signed in Asunción.

The former Foreign Minister of Paraguay, Mr Hector Lacognata, visited South Africa from 19-29 October 2009.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Paraguay

Please contact the South African Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentine.

Chargé d’Affairs a.i.
Mr T N Furter

South African Embassy

Time difference with SA:
-5 hours (Summer and Winter)

Paraguayan Representation in South Africa

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Chargé d'Affaires a.i.
Mr R R Recalde González

Embassy of the Republic of Paraguay

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information contact the Embassy of Paraguay in Pretoria.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes - particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children - in a most serious light.

Health Requirements

Malaria - risk exists during October to May in rural areas bordering Bolivia and Brazil.
Tetanus - immunisation is recommended if more than two years have passed since last inoculation

For further information go to Travelers' Health.

Climate Info

The climate is sub-tropical with rapid changes. Summer is very hot (December to March) with high rainfall. Winters are mild (June to September).

For up-to-date weather information click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Paraguay Guarani (PYG).

For current exchange rates click here.

Visa Requirements for Paraguayan citizens visiting South Africa

(X) Yes

For more information contact the South African Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Holders of Paraguayan national passports do not need visas in respect of bona fide holiday and business visits to South Africa not exceeding 90 days and transits. Visits outside these categories do require visas.

It is advised that all visitors please verify visa requirements with the South African Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

No Information.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Paraguay, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

No Information.