US and Paraguay Sign Secure Third-Party Agreement

On August 14, 2025, the United States and Paraguay formalized a Secure Third-Party Agreement (STCA) that allows current US asylum seekers to file for protection in Paraguay.

This initiative aligns with the Trump administration’s comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing illegal immigration by encouraging non-citizens to seek safety in countries they initially enter.

Agreements like this have previously been established with other nations such as Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Through these accords, individuals passing through those countries without seeking asylum may be returned to those nations to pursue their claims rather than being allowed to apply in the US.

By implementing this approach, the number of asylum claims filed in the US can be minimized, while shifting responsibility to partner countries.

During the signing ceremony, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that he met with Paraguayan Foreign Minister Reuben Ramirez at the State Department.

Rubio remarked, “Today, I welcomed Paraguayan Foreign Minister Reuben Ramirez to the State Department and signed the Secure Third-Party Agreement (STCA) between the US and Paraguay.”

He added, “This agreement provides asylum seekers in the US with the chance to apply for protection claims in Paraguay, enabling our country to share the burden of managing illegal immigration while addressing abuses in our asylum system.”

The aim of these agreements is to prevent “asylum shopping,” a practice where non-citizens apply for asylum in multiple countries to increase their chances of approval, which can complicate immigration processes like those in the US.

Rubio also mentioned, “This agreement exemplifies a broader strategic partnership between the US and Paraguay. Under President Santia Gopeña’s leadership, it enhances security, diplomatic ties, and economic collaboration.”

“Together, we are tackling cross-border crime, counteracting harmful entities, and enhancing regional stability. Paraguay’s classification of key terrorist organizations shows commitment to regional and global interests, while its vast economic potential opens avenues for cooperation in energy, mining, and technology,” he noted.

This agreement fits within a larger framework of cooperation focusing on security, diplomacy, and economic ventures. Both nations have pinpointed opportunities in various sectors such as energy, mining, and technology.

Rubio concluded, “Ongoing engagement with partners like Paraguay is vital for deterring illegal immigration and securing borders. The United States remains dedicated to collaborating with Paraguay to foster a safer and more prosperous future for our hemisphere.”