The Most Liberal Gun Laws in South America: Paraguay

By Paul Trausner | 2024-08-25

When you think of Paraguay, you might imagine a land of rolling hills, dense forests, and waterfalls. But did you know that Paraguay also boasts the most liberal gun laws in Latin America? It’s a country where the spirit of the Wild West still lingers—but is that really what you want when moving to this peaceful nation? Let’s explore what Paraguay has to offer and whether you need to live like an outlaw in an old Western movie to enjoy life here.

You can watch my video on gun ownership in Paraguay here, and schedule a call with me if you’re interested in life in Paraguay or are considering securing a convenient second residency there.

 

 

A Safe Place to Live

Despite its Wild West vibe, Paraguay is one of the safest countries in Latin America. With a rich history of immigration, it’s a melting pot of cultures where locals are friendly and welcoming to newcomers. Yes, safety can sometimes be a concern, as in any country, but most crimes we’ve heard about involve petty theft or personal disputes. The golden rule here? Be a good person, treat others with respect, and you’ll likely enjoy a worry-free life in Paraguay.

 

Guns and Safety

With its liberal gun laws, you might expect Paraguay to be a place where everyone’s itching for a showdown. But that’s far from the truth. Paraguayans are traditional, hardworking people with strong family values. The country’s conservative government has helped maintain a peaceful environment where respect is mutual, and safety is a community effort.

 

 

Gun Ownership in Paraguay

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of gun ownership, it’s important to note that with the right to bear arms comes the responsibility of being a safe and responsible gun owner.

 

Rules of Gun Safety:

  1. Treat every gun as if it’s loaded.
  2. Never point a gun at anything you don’t want to destroy.
  3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot.
  4. Be aware of your target and what’s beyond it.

 

Gun Ownership Details:

 

Paraguay’s gun laws are more liberal than those in any other Latin American country, bearing closer resemblance to those in some U.S. states. Every Paraguayan resident is allowed to purchase guns and rifles for home protection.

The process of obtaining a firearm in Paraguay is relatively straightforward. You visit a gun store, select your weapon, and have your local ID card (Cedula) scanned and confirmed in the system. The gun is then registered in your name, and after a two-week waiting period, you can pick it up along with your gun registration card. This firearm can be used for home protection and transported to the shooting range in a disassembled carrying case.

 

 

 

If you’re interested in carrying a concealed weapon, you can apply for a permit, which costs around $130 per year. This permit allows you to carry a concealed gun, such as a Glock 19, but be mindful of gun-free zones. It’s crucial to regularly practice your skills at one of Paraguay’s gun ranges to ensure you handle your firearm responsibly and safely.

Thinking of importing your favorite firearm? While it’s possible, it’s also a logistical headache, and firearms in Paraguay can be pricey—up to three times the cost compared to the U.S. or Europe.

 

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Whether you’re looking to live out your Wild West fantasies or simply enjoy a peaceful country lifestyle, Paraguay offers a unique blend of freedom, safety, and tradition. But remember, with great power comes great responsibility—especially when it comes to gun ownership.

If you’re interested in life in Paraguay and are considering moving there permanently or securing a convenient second residency, feel free to schedule a call with me here.

 

Paul Trausner

Lived on 4 continents and visited 60+ countries

Specializes in expat consultation for Latin America,

including residency coaching, US LLC formation, and tax optimization strategies

 

DISCOVER how we got to South America in our travel Documentary:

 

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About Paul Trausner

Author, Fitness Trainer & Paleo Nutrition Specialist - “Have Your ADVENTURE - Spark your Paleo Lifestyle and light your FIRE!“