Visas for Brazil

The process for getting a visa for Brazil has undergone many changes in recent years. Previously, almost all travellers needed a visa to enter the country, but the Brazilian government recently waived the visa requirements for many foreigners. Expats should contact their local Brazilian embassy to find out which visa rules apply to them.

If you’re hoping to make a more permanent move to Brazil, prepare yourself for a long and drawn-out visa application process. It is advisable to make use of the services of an immigration lawyer to make the process less stressful.

Relocation Companies in Brazil

Short-term visas for Brazil

Expats looking to get a short-term visa for Brazil should contact their local embassy. Travellers from certain countries don’t need a visa to enter Brazil and can get visa-free entry at the border. These countries include the US, UK, South Africa, New Zealand and Ireland.

Visa-free travellers and those with a visit visa are allowed to stay in Brazil for up to 90 days.

Tourist visas

Visas may be extended by another 90 days. For tourist visas, you’ll need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. When applying in person, processing takes up to five business days. When applying by mail or drop box, processing takes up to 10 business days from package arrival.

Business visas

Business visitors may need additional documentation, including a letter of invitation from the Brazilian company you’ll be visiting. Some business activities may be covered under the general tourist visa. Business visas follow the same 90-day validity period as tourist visas.

Temporary work and study visas

Other temporary visas allow holders to stay in Brazil legally for more than 90 days. There are several types available, including work visas, student visas, and digital nomad visas. The digital nomad visa was introduced in 2022. Student and work visas are valid for the duration of the course or employment contract.

Read more: Work Permits for Brazil

Permanent visas for Brazil

If you wish to live in Brazil long-term, you can apply for a permanent visa. The requirements for permanent visas are quite stringent. If you wish to apply for any permanent visa, be prepared for a long wait with bureaucratic processes and extensive paperwork.

Investment visas (VIPER) are for foreign investors who make substantial investments in Brazilian businesses or real estate.

If you’re married to a Brazilian citizen or have Brazilian family members, you may be eligible for permanent residency through family reunification. You need proof of the relationship, and marriage certificates or birth certificates must be legalised and translated.

Foreign retirees with adequate pension income may apply for permanent residency in Brazil. You need a monthly income that meets the threshold and can be transferred to Brazil.

Residence permits for Brazil

Once you arrive in Brazil with either type of visa, you must register with the Brazilian Federal Police within 90 days. This registration gives you your National Migration Registry Card (CRNM), formerly known as the RNE. This physical card serves as your official residence permit and identity document whilst living in Brazil.

To get a CRNM, you need a valid passport, proof of legal entry into Brazil, and completed application forms. You may also need additional documents specific to your visa category.

You must renew it at the Federal Police three months before the expiration date. You need updated documentation and proof that you continue to meet your visa requirements.

Useful links

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Official visa information
• Brazil eVisa Portal: Electronic visa applications
• Federal Police: Immigration and residence permits

Visa and work permit requirements are subject to change at short notice, and expats are advised to contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.