Guide to Residency 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.

Obtaining Residency Status in Brazil

• Understand the Types of Visas
  • Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to understand the different types of visas, such as work, student, investor, and family reunion visas.
  • Choose the appropriate visa type for your situation.
• Gather Required Documents
  • A valid passport with at least six months validity remaining.
  • Completed visa application form, available on the Consular Services website.
  • Passport-sized photograph.
  • Proof of financial means, such as bank statements.
  • Additional documents depending on the visa type (e.g., work contract, marriage certificate, police clearance).
• Apply for a Visa at the Brazilian Consulate
  • Find the Brazilian consulate or embassy responsible for your region.
  • Schedule an appointment, if required.
  • Submit your application and pay the visa fee.
  • Wait for processing. Processing times vary, so check with the consulate for estimated timelines.
• Enter Brazil and Register with the Federal Police
  • Upon arrival in Brazil, you have 90 days to register with the Federal Police (Polícia Federal).
  • Visit the Federal Police website to find the nearest office and schedule an appointment.
  • Bring your passport, visa, and any other required documents to the appointment.
• Apply for a Tax Number (CPF)
  • Visit the Receita Federal website to apply for a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas).
  • Fill out the application form and submit it.
  • Print the confirmation protocol and take it to a Banco do Brasil branch or a Caixa Econômica Federal branch for finalization.
• Open a Brazilian Bank Account
  • Choose a bank that suits your needs (e.g., Banco do Brasil, Caixa Econômica Federal, Itaú, Bradesco).
  • Visit the bank with your passport, CPF, and proof of address.
  • Complete the application process and deposit the initial required amount.
• Apply for a Residence Permit (Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório - CRNM)
  • Visit the Ministry of Justice and Public Security website to apply for a CRNM.
  • Fill out the application form and submit it online.
  • Pay the application fee and schedule an appointment at the Federal Police office.
  • Attend the appointment with all required documents.
• Maintain Legal Status
  • Ensure you renew your visa, CRNM, and other documents as required.
  • Comply with Brazilian laws and regulations.
  • Keep your contact information up to date with the Federal Police and other relevant authorities.

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.