Guide to Residency in Brazil
Summary: Learn how to obtain a residency visa in Brazil. Expats, Retirees and others who have navigated the process offer advice and guidance for newcomers in Brazil.
Obtaining a residency visa in Brazil is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Brazil gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.
- Research Visa Types
- Visit the official website of the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Brazilian consulate in your home country to understand the different types of visas and residency options available.
- Choose the appropriate visa type based on your situation (e.g., work, investment, family reunion, retirement).
- Prepare Necessary Documentation
- Gather personal documents such as your passport, birth certificate, and any other identification papers.
- Obtain any additional documents that may be required for your specific visa type, such as a job offer, proof of investment, or marriage certificate.
- Ensure all documents are translated into Portuguese by a certified translator if they are not already in Portuguese.
- Apply for a Visa
- Fill out the visa application form, which can be found on the Brazilian consulate's website or at the consulate itself.
- Submit the application form along with all required documentation and the visa fee to the Brazilian consulate.
- Wait for the processing of your visa application. This can take several weeks or months depending on the type of visa and the consulate's workload.
- Register with the Federal Police
- Upon arrival in Brazil, schedule an appointment with the Federal Police (Polícia Federal) to register as a foreign resident.
- Complete the "Registro Nacional Migratório" form and submit it along with your passport, visa, and other required documents.
- Pay the registration fee and receive your RNM card (Registro Nacional Migratório), which serves as your Brazilian ID.
- Apply for a Tax Number (CPF)
- Visit the Receita Federal website to fill out the CPF application form.
- Submit the application form along with a copy of your RNM card and proof of residence in Brazil to a Receita Federal office or authorized entity.
- After processing, you will receive your CPF number, which is required for many transactions in Brazil, including opening a bank account and signing contracts.
- Open a Bank Account
- Choose a bank in Brazil and visit a branch with your passport, RNM card, and CPF number.
- Provide proof of address in Brazil, which can be a utility bill or a rental agreement in your name.
- Fill out the bank's application form and submit it along with the required documents to open an account.
- Stay Informed About Visa Renewal and Permanent Residency
- Keep track of the expiration date of your temporary visa and start the renewal process well in advance.
- Consult with the Federal Police or a legal expert on the requirements for applying for permanent residency after you are eligible (usually after 4 years on a temporary visa).
- Follow the necessary steps and submit the required documentation for permanent residency when you qualify.
What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Brazil?
"The process of applying for a visa for Brazil is a fairly straightforward procedure. Applicants must submit to their local Brazilian Consulate or Embassy their passport, a valid visa application form and a valid travel document. They should also provide proof of funds that are sufficient for their travels and current residence documents, such as a birth certificate, utility bill, or a letter from an employer or educational institution, as applicable. In addition, a valid passport size photograph, health report, and a valid yellow fever vaccination, if applicable, will be required. The process of applying for residency in Brazil follows the same basic steps and generally requires the same documents as applying for a visa. More detailed information on forms, processes and fees can be obtained directly from the Brazilian Consulate or Embassy. To apply for residency in Brazil, foreign citizens must submit their passport and visa application, along with additional supporting documents. The documents required include a valid birth certificate, marriage certificate, a valid passport size photograph, a job offer or certificate of acceptance from a Brazilian university, a health report, and a declaration of property located in Brazil. Once all of the documents have been submitted, the applicant will be issued a provisional residency card. The length of time between the application and obtaining the residence card varies," commented one member living in Brazil.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Brazil Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Brazil
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Brazil
- Best Places to Live in Brazil
- Real Estate in Brazil
- Guide to Real Estate in Brazil
- Pros & Cons of Living in Brazil
- Cost of Living in Brazil
- Best Places to Visit in Brazil for Christmas Cheer
- Christmas in Brazil
- Dengue Virus in Brazil
- Culture Shock in Brazil
- 2024 Guide to Living in Brazil
- Pros and Cons of Living in Brazil 2024