How To Obtain Visas For Brazil

4th Edition
law
obtain
Visas
for Brazil
Sponsor:
American Chamber of Commerce for Brazil - AMCHAM

International Affairs Department
Brazil, 2013/2014
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Operating since 1982 in the security and surveillance segment, GRABER has been expanding its
ATENE Legal Consulting has more than 20 years of experience helping and advising
participation in the sectors of surveillance, personal security, specialized services, electronic
Brazilian and multinational companies, businessmen and private individuals with
security projects, and cargo and vehicle tracking. The company is a pioneer in the provision of
immigration-related problems. As Brazil has emerged as an increasingly important and
integrated security services in Brazil and the first Latin American company to be granted the ISO
globally
integratedNow
economy,
so ISO
the 14001
efficient,
movement
of investors,
executives
9001
Certification.
holds the
andrapid
OHSAS
18001, minimizing
environmental
and
technical
specialists
have
grown
to
assume
strategic
importance.
ATENE
has been
impact and meeting all the legal requirements of quality, health, workplace safety
and
an
active
partner
of
the
American
Chamber
of
Commerce
for
over
15
years,
helping
environment. It was also the first to introduce the e-learning concept, to offer a 24-hour assistance
companies
maximize and
efficiency
minimize
direct and
indirect
costs and
benefiting
service
for expatriates,
to createand
a Corporate
University
to train
and provide
specialization
from
the
supports
structure
available
for
its
members.
Atene
has
been
participating
at
courses for its over 15,000 employees. We have been partnering with AMCHAM since the
How To Series
since To
theSeries
first edition,
importance
beginning
of the How
becausedemonstrating
we believe, notthe
onlypublications
in this project,
but also in and
the
prestige
as
well
as
the
appreciation
with
Amchams
partnership.
professionalism with which the information is provided to international companies. Being able to
contribute in such a simple and objective way is a great pleasure to our company.
Ziara Abud - CEO, Atene Assessoria Tcnica
LAW
Notes:
Gender - As a grammatical simplification, the visa applicant is referred
to throughout this booklet as masculine. Readers should be aware that all
requirements apply equally to applicants of both sexes.
Companies - The term Brazilian company means one established in
Brazil under Brazilian law. It does not refer to the origin of the companys
capital. The wholly-owned Brazilian subsidiary of, say, an American
multinational is classed as a Brazilian company for legal purposes.
CONTENT
01 OVERVIEW AND TYPES OF VISA
06
02 THE TRANSIT VISA
07
03 THE TOURIST VISA
08
04 TEMPORARY VISAS FOR BUSINESS AND WORK
13
05 TEMPORARY BUSINESS VISA BUSINESS TRIP, FAIRS AND
CONGRESSES
14
06 THE TEMPORARY WORK VISA
16
07 OTHER TYPES OF TEMPORARY RESIDENCE VISA
22
08 THE PERMANENT RESIDENCE VISA
24
09 THE FOREIGN SENIOR MANAGER
27
10 THE FOREIGN INVESTOR
29
11 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR SENIOR MANAGERS AND
INVESTORS
31
12 OTHER RESIDENCE VISA SITUATIONS
32
13 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ALL RESIDENCE VISAS
37
14 ON ARRIVAL IN BRAZIL
41
15 APPENDIX A - DO YOU NEED A VISA BEFORE TRAVELLING TO BRAZIL? 44

16 APPENDIX B - BRAZILIAN CONSULATES
47
17 ABOUT OUR SPONSOR
50
01.
OVERVIEW AND TYPES OF VISA
KNOWING THE PROCEDURES WILL HELP
YOUR VISA APPLICATION
Where to start: The first step, before even thinking of

packing your suitcases, is to find out from the nearest
Brazilian Consulate which documents are necessary for
Once you have decided to visit Brazil for pleasure or
your authorized entry into Brazil.
a business trip, or seek to extend an existing visa to

remain longer in the country, you may face a certain
Tourist and transit visas are normally easy to obtain.
amount of bureaucracy. However, procedures are fairly
However, temporary and permanent residence visas require
straightforward if steps are taken in the right order and at
an extensive list of documents. It is always wise to have
the correct time.
a professional specialized in such matters to accompany

these administrative proceedings, given the bureaucracy
Documentation required to obtain a visa can vary from
involved and the constant changes in legislation.
the simple presentation of a passport on arrival in Brazil

for tourists of certain countries, to notarized documents
Types of visa - Brazil issues seven principal types of visa: Transit;
such as an educational record, certificate of good
Tourist; Temporary; Permanent; Courtesy; Official; Diplomatic.
standing, etc. for foreigners who wish to reside and/or

work in Brazil.
This publication covers procedures for obtaining the first

four types of visas, which are the most commonly used by
It should be noted that this publication is based on legislation
the majority of travelers and businessmen.
06
LAW
and procedures in effect in January 2013, and is therefore

subject to changes that may have been implemented
Courtesy, official and diplomatic visas are not dealt within
subsequently by the Brazilian Government.
this publication.
02.
THE TRANSIT VISA
This is granted to foreigners who, during their journey to a
When a trip to a third country is interrupted in Brazil for
third country, need to pass through Brazilian territory. This
reasons beyond the control of the traveler, the transport
situation typically occurs in flight connections where the
company must communicate this fact to the Federal
passenger has to change planes at separate airports to proceed
Police. They will authorize the foreigners stay for the
on his trip, or in journeys that involve different modes of
period strictly necessary to proceed with the trip. Expenses
transport. Obtaining this type of visa is usually very simple
during the stay are transport company responsability.
basically a case of going to the nearest Brazilian Consulate
07 HOW TO OBTAIN VISAS FOR BRAZIL
and presenting your passport and connection flight ticket.
03.
THE TOURIST VISA
GENERAL
countries whose citizens need or need not to apply for a

tourist visa before travelling. However, since the rules are
The tourist visa is granted to people who wish to enter
subject to change, it is advisable to check with a Brazilian
Brazil temporarily for tourism, to visit friends or relatives,
Consulate before travelling. Note that the determining
to participate without payment in an amateur sports
factor is the nationality of the applicant, as determined by
competition or artistic event. The trip cannot be for the
his passport, and not the place from which he is applying.
purpose of immigration, neither may the holder of such a visa

work in Brazil, make business contacts or receive any form
The difference in treatment arises because Brazil
of remuneration. A person travelling to Brazil to conduct
practices a policy of reciprocity with respect to tourist
business, make a paid speech at a professional congress or
visas it requires the prior issuance of a visa for citizens
supply professional services, for example giving technical
of all countries that impose the same requirement on
advice, should apply for a temporary visa for this specific
Brazilian citizens. Prior issuance means issuance in the
purpose, rather than abuse the tourist visa status.
travelers country of residence, before embarking for

Brazil. Airlines carrying a person who requires a visa will
Almost all foreign tourists visiting Brazil need a valid
normally examine the travelers passport before clearing
passport to enter the country. The passport should have at
him to board a Brazil-bound flight.
least six months remaining duration and at least one blank

page when presented to Brazilian immigration on arrival.
It is important to stress that it is not unknown for foreign

travelers to be barred on arrival at Brazilian airports if they
The majority of people citizens of approximately two
lack the necessary visa.
08
LAW
thirds of all countries must apply for a visa BEFORE

travelling to Brazil as tourists, and will have refused entry if
All tourists admitted to Brazil, whether or not they were
they arrive without one. Others may travel to Brazil without
required to obtain a visa before travelling, will receive a
a visa. The list is shown on this booklet and indicates those
permission to stay stamp at the airport (or other port) of
entry. This grants permission to stay for a specific length
Citizens of some countries with which Brazil
of time, in most cases 90 days. There is no charge for this
does not maintain formal diplomatic relations, and
permission to stay stamp.
whose national passport is therefore not recognized.

Such people can apply for a laissez-passer travel
Travelers should also note that Brazil requires tourists to
document. Requirements are broadly similar to
hold a passport that has at least six months remaining
those for people who must apply for a visa before
validity, counted from the date of arrival in Brazil.
travelling to Brazil. This will be stamped with

permission to stay on arrival in Brazil.
Finally, travelers should be aware that the visa issued at

a Brazilian Consulate is not an absolute guarantee of
entry. Immigration officials may still ask any incoming
OBTAINING A TOURIST VISA BEFORE

TRAVELLING
tourist to show his return ticket, hotel reservation (or

other accommodation arrangement) and means of support
Those tourists who are required to apply for a visa
(cash, credit card, travelers checks and/or other financial
before travelling must present their passport at a
instruments), and may refuse entry to a person who is
Brazilian Consulate.
unable to do so. It is thus advisable to carry all such items

and documents in hand luggage.
In some cases Brazilian Consulates require the visa

applicant to appear in person, while others allow
SPECIAL CASES
applicants to mail in their passport and visa application
Two groups of people are exceptions to the general rules
person, for example a family member, friend or travel
outlined above:
agent. However, various consulates impose restrictions

on the way in which they will receive passports and
Citizens of neighboring countries Argentina,
forms. Given the different rules, it is best to check with
Uruguay,
the consulate in question beforehand.
Paraguay,
Chile,
Peru,
Ecuador,
Colombia, Venezuela and Bolivia can enter as

tourists simply by showing their national ID card.
In most countries there is just one Brazilian Consulate,
They receive an entry-and-exit card at the border
normally located in the same building as the Brazilian
stamped with their permitted duration of stay,
Embassy, but in some countries there are various
which will be for up to 90 days;
consulates. For example, there are nine in the United
forms, or have them hand-delivered by an authorized
States, and four in Canada. These divide their respective
Passport, valid for at least six months from the
countries into regions of jurisdiction the New York
planned date of arrival in Brazil;
consulate, for example, deals with the states of Delaware,

New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, plus the Bermuda
Visa application form, completed on both sides
Islands. Normally, Brazilian Consulates will accept tourist
and signed, filled out electronically at https://scedv.
visa applications from people living in any part of their
serpro.gov.br;
respective countries when the person concerned comes in

personally, but will accept applications sent in only from
One recent 2x2 passport-photo, front view,
persons resident within their respective areas of jurisdiction,
white background;
not from other parts of the country. Check with the nearest
consulate for local requirements and areas of jurisdiction.
A copy of your round-trip ticket or a booked

itinerary showing travel to and from Brazil
Visa application forms can be obtained at https://scedv.
(confirming the purchase of the ticket, with
serpro.gov.br.
passengers name, itinerary, flight number and

arrival/departure dates); and
Fees for issuing a tourist visa may range from very little
to USD100 or more. The amount depends on reciprocity
Such other information as the passport office may
agreements and varies according to where the application
deem necessary.
is made. There may also be additional handling fees,

depending on how the passport is delivered to the
Foreigners who are permanent residents outside of
consulate. Finally, consulates establish their own rules
their home country will normally be able to apply for a
regarding payment methods. Most Consulates require that
Brazilian tourist visa in their country of residence. This
the passport has at least two blank pages.
is possible in the United States, for example, where the
10
LAW
applicant must, in addition to the above-listed items, sent

Brazilian Consulates may vary in the documents they ask
in a copy of his US Alien Resident Card and/or a valid visa
a prospective tourist to produce, in addition to passport
or document to return from Brazil to the United States or
and completed application form. It is thus always
to another country.
advisable to consult the consulate where the application

will be made. As a guide, the Brazilian Consulate in
Different consulates quote different turn-round times on
New York asks for:
tourist visa applications, and of course it can also vary with
seasonal work-loads. Some quote next-day service, others

specify two weeks or more. Check with the consulate to
which you are applying.
Note that the visa, once issued, must be used for the
first time within 90 days, if the applicants country of
nationality renders the same treatment to Brazilian
Nationals (reciprocity), even though the stamp on the
passport might say the validity is five years. If not so used,
the visa expires. In other words, the tourist must arrive
in Brazil not more than 90 days after receiving his visa.
This means that while the tourist planning to visit Brazil
must apply in advance for his visa, he cannot anticipate
the application too much or else he runs the risk of having
the visa expire before he travels.
which time the traveler will be held in a Federal Police

waiting area. Weekends and public holidays are liable
to complicate matters significantly.
The bottom line on conditional disembarkation is that
it is not a right and it is within the discretionary powers of
immigration officials to insist on compulsory departure
on the next available flight, irrespective of destination.
Therefore, travelers are strongly advised to take the
proper precautions beforehand.
FAMILY
irregularity, might sometimes be able to arrange for

emergency entry at the airport. However, this is not
guaranteed. The emergency entry procedure, known as
conditional disembarkation, requires the travelers
consulate in Brazil to contact the Brazilian Ministry of
External Relations in Braslia and request assistance,
The
ministry
may or may not look kindly on the request, there is

no prerogative. If the plea is accepted, the Ministry
members. All members of a family must apply for their

own visas. However, one member of the family can
deliver the visa applications for the whole family.
Minors The same general regulations and eligibilities
apply as for tourist visas for adults. However, the visa
application form must be signed by both parents, and
the application must be accompanied by the birth
certificate of the minor original document, which will
be returned, plus a photocopy. If the minor will travel
to Brazil without either parent, the visa application form
must be accompanied by a notarized letter of consent
days previously, or with some other minor technical
circumstance.
the best of times this will take 10 to 12 hours, during
Tourist visas are individual and cannot include family
Travelers arriving with a visa issued more than 90
extenuating
Justice which in turn instructs the Federal Police at

the airport to grant conditional disembarkation. At
USING A TOURIST VISA FOR THE FIRST

TIME
pleading
of External Relations then speaks to the Ministry of
signed by both parents. If the minor will travel with just
be reduced at the discretion of Federal Police immigration
one parent, then the visa application must be accompanied
officials. Also, an extension is permitted only once every 12
by a notarized letter of consent from the parent who will
months, counting from the first entry. Therefore, providing
not travel with him.
all other conditions are complied with, it is theoretically
VALIDITY
possible to spend almost six months of each 12 consecutive

months in Brazil as a tourist.
Tourist visas may be issued for up to five years, with
The traveler who overstays his permitted time in Brazil
multiple re-entries, for citizens from countries offering
without renewing his visa is liable to a daily fine, plus an
similar or longer periods to Brazilian citizens. However,
order to leave within eight days, coupled with the threat of
this refers to the validity of the visa stamp on the passport
deportation should he disobey such an order.
and not to the length of any permitted stay in Brazil.

When the tourist arrives at the airport or other point of
Visa extension can be handled at any Federal Police office,
entry he will normally receive permission to stay for up
it is not necessary to return to the airport or other port of
to 90 days.
entry where the original entry stamp was given. There

are Federal Police offices in all Brazilian state capitals
Extending the visit Tourist visas can normally be
and several major cities throughout the country. A full list
extended once for an additional period of up to 90
of offices is available on the Federal Police internet site:
days without leaving the country. To extend the length
http://www.dpf.gov.br.
of stay the tourist must apply to the Federal Police

before the initial period expires. The tourist seeking
The tourist requesting visa extension must do so by using
an extension of stay must hold a valid return ticket and
a form which can be obtained from a Federal Police office
demonstrate means of support for the subsequent 90
or downloaded from the Federal Police site at the following
days. When the total 180 days are up he must leave the
address: http://www.dpf.gov.br/servicos/estrangeiro/
country and may not re-enter as a tourist for at least
prorrogacao-de-prazo-de-estada-de-turista-e-viajante-
another six months.
a-negocios-temporario-ii-1/prorrogacao-de-prazo-de-
12
LAW
estada-de-turista-e-viajante-a-negocios-temporarioIt is important to note that while 90 days is the normal
ii/?searchterm=prorrogao visto. He must also pay a
period granted, the initial and/or extension periods may
renewal fee.
04.
THE TEMPORARY VISAS FOR BUSINESS AND WORK
GENERAL
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WORK AND

BUSINESS
Brazil provides various kinds of temporary visas for

businessmen, executives, company owners, technicians
Brazilian authorities have in recent years applied a much
and other professional people travelling as part of their
stricter distinction between a short-term business visit
work. Most frequently, the option will be one of two
and a short-term working visit. This is in part a reaction to
major categories:
increasing globalization and the practice of multinational

companies of sending staff from one country to another to
The 90-day temporary business visa; or
work on specific projects, install equipment or software,

resolve specific problems, train local staff, etc.
The temporary work visa (technically, a temporary

residence visa) which can be for up to two years.
Brazilian legislation does not define exactly what shall be
Some businessmen do in fact travel to and enter Brazil on
the traveler needs a business or work visa. Therefore, this
tourist visas, and while frequently this may go unnoticed,
section reflects the recent practices of Brazilian Federal
they are always running the risk that their visa status may be
Police and Brazilian Consulates. If in doubt, the prospective
questioned. A businessman entering Brazil with a wrongly-
traveler should contact his nearest Brazilian Consulate and
declared tourist visa risks being refused entry and required
explain the nature and purpose of his visit. Consular staff
to fly home on the next plane.
will be able to advise on the right type of visa to apply for.
classified as business for the purposes of deciding whether
05.
THE TEMPORARY BUSINESS VISA BUSINESS
TRIPS, FAIRS AND CONGRESSES
GENERAL
i.e., normal practice is a multiple re-entry visa valid for

up to five years, with individual visits limited to 90 days
The temporary business visa is appropriate for the
occasionally less, but never more with one extension
following purposes:
of stay allowed. As with the tourist visa, in no 12-month

period may a business traveler spend more than a total
Making business contacts, holding interviews, demonstrating

samples, negotiating sales and deals, etc; Evaluating markets;
Making preparatory contacts that may lead to establishing
a company in Brazil; Attending fairs, congresses, etc;
of 180 days in Brazil.
OBTAINING A TEMPORARY BUSINESS

VISA
Attending or speaking at congresses, seminars, etc; and

Equivalent activities.
Not all nationalities are required to obtain a temporary

business visa before travelling to Brazil. As with tourist
At no time may the temporary business visitor receive
visas, the position is essentially one of bilateral reciprocity.
remuneration in Brazil.
Those countries whose citizens are required to apply for

and obtain temporary business visas BEFORE travelling to
The validity of a temporary business visa varies
Brazil are listed on this booklet.
14
LAW
according to the nationality of the traveler. As a

general rule Brazil applies the principle of reciprocity,
Other travelers those who are not required to
granting such visas for the same length as time as
seek prior issue of a temporary business visa can
would be granted to Brazilian businessmen travelling
enter Brazil by showing a valid passport and noting
in the opposite direction under the same circumstances.
business on the Brazilian immigration landing card,
Conditions are essentially the same as for tourist visas,
which is normally handed out during international
flights to the country. Their passport will then be
EXTENSION
stamped with a permission to stay by the Brazilian

immigration official at their airport of entry, provided
The period of stay of a temporary business visa can
of course that all other conditions are met, for example
normally be extended once, for the same period as
with regard to proof of means of support during the
it was initially granted. An extension request should
visit, hotel reservations and possession of a valid
be made in Brazil to the Ministry of Justice through
return ticket.
the Federal Police before the original visa expires.

Extension of the business visa can be handled at any
There is no charge for the permission to stay issued on
Federal Police office, it is not necessary to return to the
arrival at Brazilian ports and airports.
airport or other port of entry where the original entry

stamp was given.
Procedures for obtaining a temporary business visa prior

to departure are essentially the same as for obtaining a
There are Federal Police offices in all Brazilian state
tourist visa, with the additional requirement that the
capitals and several major cities throughout the country.
travelers home company must attach a letter on its
A full list of offices is available on the Federal Police
headed paper explaining the nature and purpose of the
internet site: http://www.dpf.gov.br.
trip. This letter should specify the duration of the trip

and include a declaration that no paid activity will be
The following documents, among others, must be
undertaken by the individual in Brazil. If the applicant
submitted when requesting extension: the applicants
is self-employed, an additional letter may be required
travel document (passport, identity card, laissez-passer
from his bank, containing financial references.
or other); evidence of means of support; and proof of
Some Brazilian Consulates still ask applicants to supply

an official declaration that they have no criminal record.
FAMILY
Different consulates quote different turn-round times
The temporary business visa is analogous to the tourist
on temporary business visa applications, and of course
visa and as such cannot include family members. There
it can also vary with seasonal work-loads. Some quote
is no restriction on family members accompanying a
next-day service, others specify two weeks or more.
businessman during a short-stay visit but they must apply
Check with the consulate to which you are applying.
individually for tourist visas.
reasons for requesting the extension.
06.
THE TEMPORARY WORK VISA
GENERAL
rather than business (see Difference between work

and business).
The temporary work visa is effectively a category of

temporary residence visa, even if it is issued for a period
Temporary residence visas are issued for different durations
of 90 days or less. Note that residence for visa purposes
(see Length of stay ahead) but they have certain features
does not necessarily imply residence for Brazilian tax
in common. Obtaining the visa involves significantly more
liability this will depend amongst other things on the
bureaucracy than the simple tourist or short-stay business visas.
length of time for which the traveler is temporarily resident
Temporary residence visas are issued for a specific activity and
in Brazil in any fiscal year. It is recomended to take advice
limit the holders ability to change activity once in the country.
on potential tax liability from an appropriate professional.

The principal situations in which a foreigner may apply for
Brazil issues seven categories of temporary residence visas
one of the seven categories of temporary residence visa are:
16
LAW
to meet various circumstances, and within one category there

may be several different practices for different situations.

As a business executive, scientist, teacher,
Thus, two people in different situations may be issued a visa
technician or other professionally qualified person,
in the same category but for different lengths of time, and
under contract or rendering services to a company in
after complying with different application requirements.
Brazil or to the Brazilian government;
It is not uncommon for a businessman, particularly
To supply technical assistance or services
one with technical qualifications and/or working in a
to a Brazilian company, without a formal
technical area, to find that under Brazilian law he must
employment relationship;
apply for a temporary work visa rather than the temporary

business visa described above. This happens when his
As the overseas employee of a multinational
activities in Brazil, albeit temporary, are classed as work
company that has its headquarters in Brazil, when
coming to Brazil for training and/or familiarization
Crew member of a tourist vessel; and
with the groups business and management culture

(including technical and administrative operations);
As a teacher, researcher or scientist;
Technician on offshore oil platform.

Some situations are effectively special cases that fall
within the scope of the regular temporary work visa.
For a cultural trip or study mission;
These include supplying services to the Brazilian

government, working on a fishing vessel rented or owned
As a professional artist, entertainer or sportsman;
by a Brazilian, and serving as a trainee in a Brazilian

company. Other situations are covered by their own
As a welfare worker;
specific temporary visa categories, for example foreign

press and TV correspondents, missionaries and visiting
As a student;
professional artists and sportsmen. These categories are

not dealt extensively with in this booklet.
As a trainee, seeking professional experience

within a university course;
THE 90-DAY, ONE YEAR AND TWO-YEAR

WORK VISAS
To receive professional training;

The first two cases listed above business executives,
As a foreign correspondent for a newspaper,
scientists, technicians under contract or supplying
magazine, radio, television or news agency;
technical assistance or services even without a formal
As a minister of religion, member of a consecrated
Visa Category V, known as the temporary work visa.
order or equivalent;
For business and professional travelers, the broad distinction is:
To work in an international cooperation project;
Remuneration with contract to a Brazilian
For sports training;
company two years;
Crew member of a fishing vessel;
No remuneration 90 days or one year.
employment relationship are covered by the Temporary
While these are all temporary work visas issued under the
in Braslia and from there to the Brazilian Consulate within
same visa class Category V they are commonly referred
the jurisdiction of the residence of the foreigner, where the
to as the 90-day work visa, the one-year work visa and the
visa candidate will complete the remaining bureaucratic
two-year work visa.
steps of the process.
OBTAINING A TEMPORARY WORK VISA
Applicants who will be formally employed in Brazil

The company making the application will be required
The logic behind the temporary work visa is fundamentally
to demonstrate that the potential candidate has suitable
different from that relating to the temporary business
educational and/or professional qualifications and/or
visa. For this reason, the two visas have totally different
work experience. The Brazilian government practices
application procedures. For the temporary business visa, it
a visa issuance policy based upon protecting Brazilian
is the intending traveler who makes the request and explains
professionals and workers. Therefore, in order for a
what he plans to do in Brazil. For the temporary work visa,
visa to be issued by the Immigration Coordinator of
it is the potential employing company in Brazil (or company
the Labor Ministry, the company must demonstrate
that will receive the services, even without contract or
that the potential foreign workers qualifications are
payment) that must first seek permission from the Brazilian
different from or superior to those held by a Brazilian
government to bring in a temporary foreign worker. Thus,
professional who would occupy the same position,
for the temporary business visa, the process starts at the
and are relevant to the function the applicant will
Brazilian consulate abroad, while for the temporary work
perform in Brazil. Where the applicant holds a degree
visa, it starts at the Labor Ministry in Brazil.
from a recognized university, he will be required to
18
LAW
present his diploma and proof of one years relevant

The Brazilian company initiates the visa application
work experience. Where the applicant does not hold a
procedure by applying to the Immigration Coordinator of
degree, he must demonstrate at least nine years formal
the Labor Ministry in Brazil. Application may be made to a
education and two years relevant work experience.
regional office of the Labor Ministry, but the process will be
Where the applicant holds a Masters or Doctorate
forwarded to Braslia anyway and is likely to be processed
degree, which the course had a duration of at least
faster if the application is made directly in the federal capital.
360 hours, no proof of professional experience is

required. These requirements (professional experience
If the application is approved the documents are forwarded
and education) are not needed for those holders of a
by the Labor Ministry to the Ministry of External Relations
nationality of any country of South America.
Note that Article 352 of Brazils Consolidated Labor Laws
foreign worker will continue to receive his salary from
provides that all industrial or commercial corporations with
the subsidiary outside of Brazil and will have no formal
three or more employees must maintain a minimum of two-
labor relationship with the company in Brazil.
thirds of Brazilian employees in their work force. The same

applies to the total payroll the salary paid to foreigners
In all cases The application made by the Brazilian
may not exceed 1/3 of the total payroll. Exceptions are
company will be backed up by documents supplied by
(a) foreigners who have lived in Brazil for more than 10
the foreign worker. At least, these will include personal
years with a permanent visa and have a Brazilian spouse or
details, a professional resume, a photocopy of the passport,
offspring, and (b) Portuguese citizens.
and proof of education and professional experience.
Applicants who will not be formally employed
DURATION OF VISA
Companies seeking for example to bring in one or more

workers to install equipment, or train local users of such
The temporary work visa can be issued for up to two
equipment, or who will be otherwise providing a contractual
years, it might be renewable once or changed into a
or non-contractual service, without remuneration in
permanent visa after two years, but in all cases the length
Brazil, must provide suitable documentary evidence of
will depend on the legal provisions for specific visa
the relationship between the applicant company and the
categories and situations.
Agreement, proof of purchase and importation of
A business executive, scientist, teacher, technician or
equipment, and/or a Technology Transfer Agreement. In
other professionally qualified person, under contract or
such cases, the visa applicant must offer proof of at least
rendering paid services to a company in Brazil, or to the
three years relevant professional experience.
Brazilian government, will normally be issued a visa

for two years. On the other hand someone coming into
Where the applicant is the overseas employee of a
the country to supply technical assistance or services
multinational company that has its headquarters in Brazil,
to a Brazilian company, without a formal employment
and is coming to Brazil for training and/or familiarization
relationship, will be issued a visa valid for 30 days, 90
with the groups business and management culture
days or up to one year, depending on the requirement. In
(including technical and administrative operations), the
such cases, it is important that the documents supplied in
visa will be granted for two years, renewable once, without
support of the visa application explain the length of time
the possibility of being changed for a permanent visa. The
that will be necessary to complete the relevant tasks.
foreign worker. This might for example be a Cooperation
Note that the duration counts from the moment the visa
several months to process. While the request is under
holder enters Brazil, not from when the visa is issued. A
consideration, the applicant will be issued with a temporary
foreigner entering Brazil to take up temporary residence
document showing the process number assigned to his
should bring with him the original copy of the form granting
application. This document is known as a protocolo
his visa and present this to immigration officials on arrival
literally, a protocol. Legally, it has the same standing as the
at the airport or port.
residence document that is under renewal. However, see

Leaving the country below.
Extension and Change of Status A temporary work visa

can be extended only once, if the first visa was granted for
LEAVING THE COUNTRY
one year, for the same period as it was initially granted.

If the initial visa was granted for two years, the change to
The temporary resident may exit and re-enter Brazil
permanent visa must be filed upon the expiration of the
without restriction during the validity of his visa. However,
first two years. Note that his permanent visa might remain
the total length of stay will always be counted from first
restricted for another two years, as per discretionary decision
entry into Brazilian territory and periods absent from the
of the Brazilian Government. If such is the case, the foreigner
country are not added to the total visa duration.
must apply to the local federal police to change his identity

card, attesting that his original employment relationship
It should be noted that there may be complications for
was maintained. Visa extension or change of status must be
international travel during the period when the temporary
requested directly to the Ministry of Justice or via Federal
resident is applying for renewal of his visa, and is
Police office that has jurisdiction for the temporary residents
carrying a protocolo and his expired ID. The temporary
address in Brazil. The Ministry of Justice will hear the Labor
resident should be able to fly out of and back into Brazil
Ministry before granting the request, which must be made
by showing his protocolo and expired ID, but in practice
before the original visa expires.
some airline companies have been reluctant to accept it as
20
LAW
an international travel document for Brazil-bound flights.

The following documents, among others, must be submitted:
In such cases the temporary resident must fly out simply
a notarized copy of the applicants travel document (passport,
receiving an exit stamp on his passport, and must return
identity card or laissez-passer); proof of temporary
on a tourist visa. This can be done without prejudice to the
registration with the Federal Police; evidence of means of
ongoing application for renewal of the temporary residence
support; and proof of the motives for the requested extension.
visa. However, for those people who must apply in advance
Requests for visa extension or change of status can take
for tourist visa, it implies a certain additional bureaucracy.
allows his visa to expire while out of Brazil, and without
residence or change the status to a permanent visa cannot
having applied for extension as described above, he is back
be made outside of Brazil. Thus, if the temporary resident
to square one and must re-apply for a temporary work visa.
Note that application for extension of the temporary
07.
OTHER TYPES OF TEMPORARY RESIDENCE VISA
For cases other than the temporary worker visa
permanent visas. Concession requires that the person
aforementioned, a temporary residence visa may be
be contracted by an entity in Brazil. Application must
obtained in one of the following manners:
be made to the Brazilian Consulate with jurisdiction

for the applicants place of residence;
Teacher, researcher or scientist of high

standing Application to the Brazilian Labor
Student Application is made by the
Ministry in Braslia;
individual to the Brazilian Consulate with
22
LAW
jurisdiction for his place of residence. Student

Cultural trip or a study mission Application
visa applications require a document that
to the Brazilian Ministry of External Relations, via
identifies the foreigner as the beneficiary of
the Brazilian Consulate with jurisdiction for the
a scholarship at a specific institution for a
applicants normal place of residence. Applicants
specific time, possibly but not necessarily under
must produce a written invitation or equivalent
a cultural agreement previously approved by the
from a private or official cultural or scientific entity,
Brazilian government. Otherwise the candidate
justifying the trip and specifying the length of stay
must demonstrate sufficient resources to support
as well as demonstrating means of support;
himself during his stay;
Professional artist, entertainer or sportsman
Trainee,
Concession of this visa requires that the person will
within a university course Application is made
render services to an entity in Brazil. Application to
to the Brazilian Ministry of External Relations,
the Labor Ministry in Brazil, by the Brazilian entity;
via the Brazilian Consulate with jurisdiction
seeking
professional
experience
for the applicants normal place of residence.

Welfare worker Foreigners working for social
The applicant must be enrolled at a recognized
assistance organizations may receive temporary or
university or equivalent entity;
Professional training Application to the Brazilian
Crew member of a tourist vessel Application
Labor Ministry. The applicant must be formally
to the Brazilian Labor Ministry;
contracted by a company outside of Brazil or receive

a scholarship. Holders of this visa are prohibited from
Technician on an offshore oil platform
exercising paid employment in Brazil;
Application to the Brazilian Labor Ministry;
Foreign correspondent for a newspaper, magazine,
Trainee application to the Brazilian Labor Ministry.
radio, television or news agency Application is

made to the Brazilian Consulate with jurisdiction for
LENGTH OF STAY
the applicants normal place of residence;

Temporary residence visas have different validations and
Minister of religion, member of a consecrated
conditions, depending on the reasons for which they are
order or equivalent Application is made to
requested and issued. Maximum durations are:
the Brazilian Consulate with jurisdiction for the

applicants normal place of residence. Applicants
As a teacher, researcher or scientist of high standing two
require a document from a religious entity in Brazil
years; For a cultural trip or study mission two years; As a
assuming financial and contractual responsibility for
professional artist or entertainer 90 days; As a professional
their stay in and departure from the country;
sportsman one year; As a welfare worker two years;
Work in a project of international cooperation
experience within a university course one year, with no
Application to the Brazilian Ministry of External
renewal; For professional training one year, with no renewal;
Relations, via the Brazilian Consulate nearest the
As a foreign correspondent for a newspaper, magazine, radio,
applicants normal place of residence;
television or news agency up to four years; As a minister of

religion, member of a consecrated order or equivalent one
Sports training Application to the Brazilian Ministry
year; To work in a project of international cooperation two
of External Relations, via the Brazilian Consulate nearest
years, with no renewal; For sports training one year, with
the applicants normal place of residence;
no renewal; Crew member of a fishing vessel two years,

with no renewal; Crew member of a tourist vessel 180 days,
Crew member of a fishing vessel Application to
with no renewal; Technician on an offshore oil platform two
the Brazilian Labor Ministry;
years; Trainee one year, with no renewal.
As a student one year; As a trainee, seeking professional
08.
THE PERMANENT RESIDENCE VISA
WHAT IS A PERMANENT RESIDENCE
VISA?
WHAT CASES ARE COVERED BY THE

PERMANENT RESIDENCE VISA?
The holder of a permanent residence visa may remain in
The cases in which a foreigner can obtain a permanent
Brazil indefinitely, provided he does not break the law.
visa are:
Unlike the tourist, business and temporary working visas

the permanent visa does not expire, and it is quite common
The foreigner senior manager:
for non-Brazilians to spend many decades in the country
A person who will occupy a senior managerial
on this visa.
or administrative position in an established

Brazilian company, typically an administrator,
Although the permanent visa does not expire it is subject to
manager or director.
24
LAW
periodic re-issue, currently at nine-year intervals. Re-issue

is automatic and there is no question of re-application,
The foreign investor:
re-assessment or re-qualification, but the process can be
A foreigner who will invest at least R$ 150,000.00
bureaucratic and time-consuming.
(one hundred and fifty thousand reais) in a company.
While the permanent resident may live out his life in Brazil,
A researcher or high-level specialist:
marry, raise a family, work, pay taxes and change jobs like
Professors, technicians and senior researchers who
Brazilian citizens, it should be noted that permanent residence
wish to reside in Brazil to undertake research work
status is not the same as citizenship. The permanent resident
at an institution of higher education or one that
may not vote and certain occupations, for example in the
conducts research in science and technology.
public sector and the communications media, will not be

open to him. Summary information about naturalization is
The director, manager or administrator of a
provided towards the end of this booklet.
private non-profit organization:
This must be a foreign organization with offices or
Business applicants will normally fall into one of the two
branches in Brazil or a Brazilian organization that
first categories: senior manager or investor.
has international operations. It must act in a range of

approved fields including education, social welfare,
Note that legally speaking, the permanent residence visa
culture and environmental protection.
is not granted by a Brazilian Embassy or Consulate. It

is granted by the Ministry of Justice after consultation
A retired foreigner who wishes to reside in Brazil:
with the Ministry of Labor, or in some cases directly by
An officially retired person, irrespective of age,
either the Ministry of Justice or the Ministry of Labor, in
accompanied by up to two dependents and able to
accordance with requirements established by the National
transfer, in accordance with the laws of the country
Immigration Council. It is then delivered to the applicant
of origin, a monthly amount equivalent to at least
normally via a designated embassy or consulate.
R$ 6,000 (six thousand reais). In the case of more

than two dependents, the applicant must transfer an
Note also that in the case of the senior manager or
additional R$ 2,000 (two thousand reais) for each
investor, the application for a permanent residence visa
additional dependent.
is initiated by the company in which the foreigner will
A close family member of a Brazilian citizen
for the sake of convenience and custom, this booklet
or resident:
often refers to the person who will receive the visa as
The spouse or minor dependent of Brazilian citizen
the applicant, legally speaking in the case of the senior
or of a permanent resident of Brazil. A foreigner who
manager or investor it is the company in Brazil which
has dependent Brazilian offspring.
makes the application to the Brazilian government.
For the purposes of uniting a family:
Obtaining a permanent residence visa requires the
Ascendants of a Brazilian national or of a
presentation of an extensive list of documents. The process
permanent resident of Brazil. Siblings of a
is bureaucratically complex and lengthy, and many of the
Brazilian citizen or of a permanent resident of
declarations or documents must be presented in a specific,
Brazil, if orphan, single and under 18 years of
legally-approved manner and notarized by specific agents or
age. Minor children, grandchildren or great-
government departments. Most applicants find they can save
grandchildren of a Brazilian citizen or of a
time and money by seeking the advice and help of a Brazilian
permanent resident of Brazil.
specialist to prepare and accompany the application.
be a manager or partner, and not by the individual. While
Companies that can apply for visas: Remembering that
c) Brazilian company with 100% Brazilian capital
for the purposes of Brazilian law, the term Brazilian
and one or more subsidiaries outside of Brazil may
company means one constituted in Brazil under Brazilian
request a permanent visa for a foreign manager,
law, irrespective of the composition or origin of its capital,
subject to the conditions detailed ahead;
the follow situations are possible:

d) Brazilian company with 100% Brazilian capital
a) Brazilian company with 100% foreign capital in
and no subsidiary outside of Brazil may not request
its ownership structure may request a permanent
a permanent visa for a foreign manager or investor.
visa for a foreign manager or foreign investor,

subject to the conditions detailed ahead;
However, such a company may request a temporary work

visa for a specialist.
26
LAW
b) Brazilian company with mixed capital, foreign and

Brazilian, in its ownership structure may request
Note that when a company is held totally or partially by
a permanent visa for a foreign manager or foreign
other companies, rather than just by private individuals, the
investor, subject to the conditions detailed ahead;
term ownership structure includes all layers of ownership.
09.
THE FOREIGN SENIOR MANAGER
The following procedures and documents apply to visas for
thousand reais) and will create during the next
a foreign senior manager or director:
two years at least 10 new jobs in the country for
WHICH COMPANIES MAY APPLY FOR

A PERMANENT VISA FOR A FOREIGN
SENIOR MANAGER?
BRAZILIAN COMPANY WITH TOTAL
OR PARTIAL FOREIGN CAPITAL IN ITS
OWNERSHIP STRUCTURE (CASES A AND
B OF PREVIOUS TOPIC):
Brazilian workers.
Note that the investment and job creation
requirements apply per individual visa applicant.
Thus, the company wishing to bring in three
managers would be required to show triple the
investment or job creation, and so on. However,
the investment need not necessarily be in cash.
It may be totally or partially in the form of
capital goods.
total or partial foreign capital will be allowed to
Companies must also comply with other relevant
bring in a foreign manager or director. One key
bureaucratic procedures detailed below.
requirement is that the applicant company must be

able to demonstrate:
That it has received from its foreign owners an
investment in Brazil that is the equivalent of at least
BRAZILIAN COMPANY WITH 100%

BRAZILIAN CAPITAL AND ONE OR MORE
FOREIGN SUBSIDIARIES (CASE C OF
PREVIOUS TOPIC):
R$ 600,000.00 (six hundred thousand reais); or

Companies in this situation are exempted from
That it has invested in Brazil the equivalent of
the need to demonstrate foreign investment or job
at least R$ 150,000.00 (one hundred and fifty
creation in Brazil. However, they must comply
Not every established Brazilian company with
procedures
detailed ahead.
ADMINISTRATOR, MANAGER OR DIRECTOR

OF MORE THAN ONE COMPANY IN BRAZIL
Assuming the company where the businessman will
The foreign businessman who holds this category of visa will
work meets the above conditions, the company initiates
not be allowed to simultaneously manage any other company
the visa process by applying to the Immigration
in Brazil, unless it is a member of the same economic group.
Coordinator of the Labor Ministry in Brazil. Application
Where the foreign businessman will administer more than one
may be made to a regional office of the Labor Ministry,
company in Brazil belonging to the same economic group, he
but the process will be forwarded to Braslia anyway and
must request an authorization to extend the functions for which
is likely to be processed faster if the application is made
the visa was originally issued. There is no additional investment
directly in the federal capital.
or job creation requirement for these additional companies.
with
other
relevant
bureaucratic
28
LAW
Note that the businessman does not receive multiple visas,

Note that the application process is NOT initiated by
but rather an authorization to carry out additional functions.
the potential recipient of the visa; it must always start
He cannot assume these additional functions before receiving
with the potential employing company in Brazil.
authorization from the Ministry of Labor.
10.
THE FOREIGN INVESTOR
This visa category covers the incoming foreign investor
The process might be directed to the National Immigration
and is initially tied to the company he invests in. By
Council in case it, due to the number of foreign investors,
definition, therefore, this visa category is not available
will generate substantially positive economical or social
for the Brazilian company that has and will continue
impact to the country.
to have 100% Brazilian capital. It is available only to

existing or new Brazilian companies that have or will
While the petition is being considered, the main object
have at least part of their capital composed of foreign
to be analyzed will be the social interest, which is
direct investment.
defined by the generation of jobs and income in Brazil,

by the increase on the productivity, the assimilation of
Essentially, the visa can only be granted to a foreigner
technology and the growth of resources to a specific
who brings foreign funds into Brazil and invests
sector of the economy. Such information should be
them in productive activities, and who plans to
demonstrated through a business plan developed by
remain indefinitely in Brazil to directly manage his
the company.
private investment, for example to buy a house, land or
In the case of an investment lower than the amount
stocks, does not qualify.
of R$ 150,000.00 (one hundred fifty thousand reais)

the National Immigration Council may authorize the
The investment must involve an initial transfer of foreign
granting of the permanent visa through the examination
capital equivalent to at least R$ 150,000.00 (one hundred
of the following criteria:
and fifty thousand reais). The National Immigration Council

(CNI) will examine visa requests for foreign investors who
Number of jobs generated in Brazil;
will bring in a smaller amount of foreign currency provided

they can demonstrate that their investment project will
Value of the investment and region of the country
create at least 10 (ten) new jobs in Brazil within five years.
where it will be applied;
investment. Note that bringing capital into Brazil for
Economic sector to benefit from the investment
Copy of the last deduction of the FGTS (fundo de
and contribution to the growth on productivity or
garantia por tempo de servio) containing the list of
assimilation of technology.
all employees.
investigational visit to the company location.
DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO APPLY FOR A

FOREIGN INVESTORS VISA
While deliberating, the National Immigration Council will
Note that the application for the visa is made by the
take special consideration to investments coming from
company receiving the investment, and NOT by the
South American nationals.
foreign investor himself. Thus, where the investor is
The General Immigration Coordination may request an
setting up a new company in Brazil, he must do this

The ID card (RNE) of the Private Investor will be valid for
before applying for the visa.
3 (three) years and must be renewed before its expiration

date, or the permanent visa will be canceled.
Only when the company has been formally established

and the investment received, it will be able to apply for a
In order to have the ID card renewed, the following
visa for its incoming shareholder. The application is made
documents should be presented:
to the Immigration Coordinator of the Labor Ministry in

Brazil. Application may be made to a regional office of
Copy of the document RAIS (relao anual de
the Labor Ministry, but the process will be forwarded to
informaes sociais) referent to the last two years,
Braslia anyway and is likely to be processed faster if the
demonstrating that the investment plan proposed by
application is made directly in the federal capital.
the company concerning the creation of employment
30
LAW
is being followed; and
11.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR SENIOR MANAGERS
AND INVESTORS
VALIDITY OF VISA AND CHANGING
EMPLOYMENT
During the period when his permanent residence visa

is restricted to administering or directing the applicant
company, the holder may apply to move to a company
The visa issued to the foreign investor and senior
which does not form part of the same economic group.
businessman with executive responsibility is a permanent
In this case, he must apply to the Brazilian Ministry of
residence visa but it is initially tied to the company which
Justice, which will consult the Ministry of Labor. One
made the original application. After five years it will be
necessary condition is that the company which originally
substituted by the Brazilian Federal Police for an unrestricted
requested the visa provides a written declaration to the
permanent residence visa, effectively liberating the holder
effect that it does not oppose the move.
to remain indefinitely in Brazil and change employers

or move his investments as he may choose (subject to
Neither the five-year substitution nor the request
normal legal and professional restrictions). To effect the
to move to a non-associated company requires the
substitution, however, the businessman must show that, up
visa holder to leave Brazil.
to that moment, he remains as a director or administrator in
the company which originally requested the visa.
12.
OTHER RESIDENCE VISA SITUATIONS
FAMILY
Brazil. For example, a self-sufficient foreign adult brother

or sister would not normally be able to receive a residence
A temporary or permanent work visa can normally be
visa under this category.
issued to include dependent relatives specifically a

spouse and unmarried children under 24 provided these
The most common and recommended form of uniting a
are named at the time of the original application. The
foreign family is to include all dependents in the applicants
normal practice is that dependent relatives receive the same
original visa submission. If this is not possible, separate
visa type and duration as the head of the family. However,
application may be made later.
applicants should be aware that family members may not

receive permission to work in Brazil, unless a separate
Separate application will typically include the case of a
application is filed, after their arrival in Brazil. The work
foreign family where dependent relatives decide to move to
visa for family member will have the same validity of the
Brazil some time after the head of the family has received
visa of the main holder. People issued with a temporary
a permanent or temporary residence visa, but could also
or permanent work visa are entitled to bring in household
include other situations, for example non-Brazilian
items. If the foreigner is a holder of a temporary visa, these
dependents of a Brazilian citizen.
must be shipped out again on departure.
32
LAW
UNITING FAMILIES
The following categories of dependents may normally

be considered:
The Brazilian government will normally give favorable
Unmarried and student children under 24 years of
consideration to permanent or temporary residence visa
age, or older if they are supported by parents;
requests for the purpose of allowing families to live

together. However, this is basically limited to economic

Brothers,
sisters,
grandchildren
and
great-
dependents of the family member who is already resident in
grandchildren if orphaned, single and under 21, or of
any age if proven to require the economic support of
See notes ahead: Documents of foreign origin
the visa applicant;
on notarization of non-Brazilian documents; also

Receipt of the visa detailing how to collect the
Parents or other direct antecedents who are proven
visa, once it has been approved.
to require the economic support of the visa applicant;

Same-sex union and life partnerships Brazil
Spouse or partner of a Brazilian citizen; and
has recently recognized same-sex marriage and it

does recognize stable relationships between adults,
Spouse or partner of a foreigner who is temporarily
independent of sex. To this end, since 2003 it has been
or permanently resident in Brazil.
possible for a same-sex or different-sex companion to

be included as family on a temporary or permanent
Note Brazil recognizes common-law and same-sex
work visa thru an application at the National Counsel of
relationships. See ahead.
Immigration and since 2011, it is possible to apply for

a family reunion for same-sex married couples at the
It is important to note that incoming family
Federal Police.
members, if approved, will normally receive a visa

of the same status and duration as their resident
Procedures are essentially the same as for inclusion of
sponsor. This means that if the sponsor is a Brazilian
other family members, with the important exception
or has a permanent residence visa, the incoming
that the applicant will be required to submit proof
family member will normally receive a permanent
of stable relationship and various other documents.
residence visa.
Cases are considered individually on the strength of
Application can be made in Brazil, at an office of the
the following two items:
Federal Police, or to the Brazilian Consulate which has

jurisdiction for the place of normal residence of the
Certificate attesting to stable union issued by
applicant outside of Brazil if the applicant is filling for
the relevant governmental organ in the applicants
a permanent visa. If application is for temporary visa,
country of origin; or
it will have to be filed and collected at the Brazilian

Consulate from the jurisdiction from where the
Proof of stable union issued by a Brazilian judge
candidate resides.
or a corresponding foreign authority.
the evidence provided, which should include one of
Failing which, the applicant may offer:
Note that items (b) to (f) must demonstrate at least one year
of stable union.
Certificate or similar document attesting to stable

union issued by a Brazilian registry office, or an
The applicant must also present:
equivalent body abroad;

A formal statement describing the history of the
A sworn declaration of stable union, registered in
stable union;
a Brazilian registry office, made by the two people

concerned; plus at least two of the following documents:
A formal undertaking by the sponsor assuming

responsibility for the incoming partner during his stay,
a) Proof of dependency issued by fiscal
for his keep and for his departure from Brazil, should
authorities or an official body equivalent to
this become necessary. This must be in the form of a
Brazilian federal income tax authorities;
sworn statement registered in the civil registry office;
b) Certificate of marriage issued by a
Formal documentary proof of ability to provide
religious entity;
financial support for both members of the stable union.

This may include proof of earnings or other income
c) Formal witness statements testifying
sources in Brazil or abroad, for either of the partners;
to the relationship;
Certified copy of the ID card of the Brazilian
d) Life insurance policy naming one of
citizen or resident;
the parties as the insured and the other as

the beneficiary;
Certified copy of the complete passport of

the applicant;
LAW
e) Deed of property purchase, duly registered

in the official property registry, naming the
A police statement of good conduct from the
two parties as co-owners, or a rental agreement
applicants country of origin or residence; and
in which both appear as co-renters; or

A sworn declaration of the applicants civil status
34
f) Proof of a joint bank account.
in his country of origin.
Note that the Brazilian citizen or resident may be requested
it will always be forwarded to the Ministry of External
to provide other documents; that the National Immigration
Affairs in Braslia.
Council may ask the Ministry of Justice to conduct

additional investigations; and that the application process
When the applicant is already living in Brazil,
normally takes upward of six months.
immigration officials will make enquiries that

may include a surprise visit to the couples home
Applicants should note that the application by the partner can
to make sure that the relationship is not a marriage
be made only after the holder of the temporary or permanent
of convenience that has the principal purpose of
work visa has arrived in Brazil. Thus, in practice, the partner has
fraudulently obtaining a residence visa. Supporting
one of two options accompany the temporary or permanent
documents such as marriage certificates may be subject
worker on a tourist visa, and then apply for inclusion in the
to verification of authenticity.
temporary or permanent work visa, or remain abroad and

apply for inclusion. The visa is granted for the purposes of
Application may be made in Brazil, at an office of the
reuniting a family. Should the partner opt to come to Brazil
Federal Police, or to the Brazilian Consulate which has
on a tourist visa while applying, he will have to leave Brazil to
jurisdiction for the place of normal residence of the
collect the visa, once granted, at a Brazilian Consulate abroad.
applicant outside of Brazil.
If the same-sex couple is able to produce a marriage
See notes ahead: Documents of foreign origin on
certificate, the procedure will follow the described below
notarization of non-Brazilian documents; also Receipt
marriage to a Brazilian citizen or permanent resident.
of the visa detailing how to collect the visa, once it has
FOREIGNER WITH BRAZILIAN CHILDREN
A permanent residence visa will normally be granted to
A permanent visa will normally be granted to the foreign
foreigners who marry Brazilian citizens or permanent
parent or parents of a Brazilian child. Application is
residents. Application is made to the Brazilian Ministry of
made to the Brazilian Ministry of Justice via regional
Justice, either via regional Federal Police offices in Brazil
Federal Police offices in Brazil. The offspring must be
or via a Brazilian consulate abroad. However, even when
economically dependent on the foreign mother or father
the application is lodged at a Brazilian Consulate abroad,
and be under the guardianship of the applicant.
MARRIAGE TO A BRAZILIAN CITIZEN OR

PERMANENT RESIDENT
been approved.
Application must be made in Brazil, at an office of the
Note that the applicant must be formally retired under the
Federal Police.
laws of his country of origin or residence, and in receipt of

a public pension paid by that countrys official pensions
agency. Receipt of a private pension will not be considered
sufficient proof of retired status.
of the visa detailing how to collect the visa, once it has

been approved.
RETIREE
The applicant must prove he is receiving and will transfer

to Brazil a pension of at least R$ 6,000 (six thousand
reais) a month. This will entitle him to visas for himself
and up to two dependents. The applicant must demonstrate
Brazil allows retired foreigners and their dependents
an additional R$ 2,000 (two thousand reais) a month for
to move to and settle in the country, provided they
each additional dependent, over and above the two already
can demonstrate adequate means of support. There is
mentioned. The specified values may be composed of one
no requirement to prove relationship to any Brazilian
or more public and private pensions, added together, but at
citizen or resident. Successful applicants will not receive
least one must be an official public pension as described
authorization to work in Brazil.
above. There is no upper or lower age limit, and the official

public pension may have been granted for any reason
The retired person must apply to the Brazilian Consulate
including age, years of contribution or disability.
nearest his place of normal residence outside of Brazil, and the

application is forward to the Ministry of External Relations
for decision. There is no limit to the number of dependents
who may be included on the visa request, but the applicant
of the visa detailing how to collect the visa, once it
must provide proof that they are genuine dependent relatives.
has been approved.
People who may potentially be classed as dependents are
36
LAW
listed in the section Uniting families on the previous topic.
13.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ALL RESIDENCE VISAS
RECEIPT OF THE VISA
document has already been supplied by the Brazilian

government. To make his application, the businessman
Temporary or Permanent residence visas must normally
must therefore send to or deliver his application to
be collected at the place where the application is made,
the appropriate Brazilian Consulate.
either a Brazilian Consulate abroad usually the one

that has jurisdiction for the applicants normal place of
The exact documents required may vary from consulate
residence prior to moving to Brazil or a Federal Police
to consulate, but will always include passport and
office in Brazil. In every case, the visa may be collected
application form. The Brazilian Consulates in Miami and
only after it has been granted by the Ministry of Justice
New York, for example, require the following documents:
and the decision published in the Official Gazette (Dirio

Oficial da Unio).
Visa application form completed on line at https://

scedv.serpro.gov.br/ and signed in duplicate;
or temporary work visas, once the application made by
Passport valid for a minimum of six months
the Brazilian company has been approved by the Labor
from the date of intended arrival in Brazil, with at
Ministry in Braslia, it will be forwarded internally
least one blank page available;
to the Ministry of External Relations and hence to

the Brazilian Consulate that has jurisdiction for the
Two recent 2x2 passport-type photos, front
place of residence of the businessman. When the visa
view, white background. Computer print-outs are
authorization arrives in the consulate, the businessman
not accepted;
must then formally apply to the consulate to receive

it. Note that at this moment, the businessman is
A police report issued within the last three
effectively making a formal visa application, with the
months, certifying absence of criminal record (in
essential difference being that the essential supporting
New York, an FBI report);
In the case of the foreign senior manager or investor
Proof of residence within the consular jurisdiction
application must be notarized in its country of origin and
for the past 12 months. This could be a driver
then presented to the Brazilian Consulate in that country
license or phone bill; and
for legalization (with the exception of passports, which do

not need to be notarized by the issuing government). Where
Copies of birth and marriage certificates, as
the visa application is being made in Brazil, documents so
applicable, legalized by the Brazilian Consulate that
notarized and legalized must be forwarded to Brazil for
has jurisdiction for their place of issue.
translation into Portuguese by a sworn translator before

being included in the application.
See Documents of foreign origin below on notarization

of non-Brazilian documents.
Note that Brazilian Consulates in different countries

have different processes for legalization of non-Brazilian
Applicants who are resident outside of their country
documents. In Germany, for example, the consulates maintain
of origin will normally be able to apply for and receive
a central list of public notaries and will accept a document
a Brazilian visa at the Brazilian Consulate which has
from them, while in the United States consulates require that
jurisdiction for their current place of residence, but this
a document which has been stamped by a public notary be
application can be made at any Brazilian Consulate that
subsequently notarized by the appropriate county clerk or
does not require the jurisdiction criteria, for all cases.
state secretary, for example the secretary of education in the

case of a school diploma. This is because the country is too
Important note In all cases, a person who receives a permanent
big for the consulate to maintain a list of all public notaries.
or temporary work visa at a Brazilian Consulate must use it
The visa applicant should therefore check with the Brazilian
to enter Brazil within 90 days, if the applicants country of
Consulate where he makes his application to determine their
nationality renders the same treatment to Brazilian Nationals
notarization and legalization requirements. In all cases, a
(reciprocity), otherwise the visa authorization will become void.
consular fee will be charged for legalization of a notarized
One 90-day extension of this deadline may normally be granted,
document. See Fees ahead.
although this must be requested during the original 90-day period
LAW
and will involve paying consular fees for a second time.
DOCUMENTS OF FOREIGN ORIGIN
notarized and legalized in the manner described above.

Two countries are exceptions to the general requirements
Any non-Brazilian document offered in support of a visa

38
Documents required to receive a visa must also be
on notarization and legalization:
France: Under the terms of a bilateral
Notarization and legalization fees charged
agreement, Brazilian authorities accept French
when documents receive such services at a
documents
Brazilian Consulate. Normally in the range of
without
being
legalized
at
Brazilian Consulate. Documents should simply
US$ 5 US$ 20 per document;
be notarized a French chamber of commerce,

public notary or mayors office, after which
Handling fee for example, to return a passport
they will be accepted by the Brazilian Labor
by approved mail or courier service.
Ministry, Ministry of External Relations or

other public entity;
Consulates normally publish their fees on their website.
Argentina: Documents must be notarized by
CHANGING A VISA CATEGORY
a public notary, then by the national association

of notaries, the Colgio de Escribanos, and then
The general principal under Brazilian law is that a visa
by the Argentine Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
category may not be changed. Therefore, the holder
FEES
of, say, a tourist, business or temporary work visa who

wishes to apply for a permanent residence visa must
initiate a new visa application process, following the
Various fees are associated with a visa application, and
procedures detailed in this publication.
may vary from consulate to consulate. Essentially, they

are of four kinds:
The following categories are an exception to the

general rule:
This may be significant, for example US$ 200 in
Scientists,
teachers,
technicians
or
other
New York and Miami;
qualified professionals under contract or rendering

services to the Brazilian Government;
Reciprocity fee Brazil operates a policy of

reciprocal charging. This means that US citizens
Members of religious institutions or orders; and
face an additional fee of US$ 100 (or more) which

matches a fee charged by Brazilians seeking a visa
Relatives joining a family member (see Uniting
for the United States;
families on the previous topic).
Consular fees the basic fee for issuing a visa.
These groups may apply to convert a temporary residence
returns after the temporary visa has expired and before
visa into a permanent visa during their stay in Brazil.
his permanent residence application is approved, he must
The change will be granted only if the applicant satisfies
enter the country as a tourist, but without prejudice to his
the conditions for the concession of a permanent visa, as
ongoing application for permanent residence.
detailed on the previous topic.
40
LAW
In such cases, it is essential to bear in mind that citizens of

The application should be submitted to the Federal
some countries must obtain a tourist visa before travelling to
Police office nearest the foreigners place of temporary
Brazil. This will apply even in the situation discussed here.
residence in Brazil, at least 30 days before the expiration
A list of those nationalities who must obtain a tourist visa
of the temporary visa. If the foreigner leaves Brazil and
before travelling is shown in this booklet.
14.
ON ARRIVAL IN BRAZIL
AT IMMIGRATION
residence in Brazil. There are Federal Police offices

in all Brazilian state capitals and several major cities
The person coming to Brazil to take up residence under a visa
throughout the country. A full list of offices is available
issued at a Brazilian Consulate abroad should obviously be
on the Federal Police internet site: http://www.dpf.gov.br.
prepared to present his passport and visa application form

to Brazilian immigration officials on arrival. Additionally,
Note that Brazilians frequently call the ID card an RG,
it is a wise precaution for him to carry in his hand luggage
which stands of Registro Geral or General Register.
any paperwork relating to the visa application, including
Identity cards for foreigners carry a different prefix on the
documents relating to the occupation for which the visa
serial number: RNE which stands for Registro Nacional
has been granted, or addresses and contact details of family
de Estrangeiros (National Register of Foreigners).
members with whom he will be staying.
However, outside of specialized government agencies,
ID CARDS REGISTERING WITH THE

FEDERAL POLICE
both identity cards are normally referred to as RG.

After registering, the temporary or permanent resident will
All Brazilian citizens and foreign residents (other than

diplomats) are obliged by law to have and carry a federal
REGISTERING AT THE CONSULATE
ID card. This document is obtained from the Federal Police

and must be requested within 30 days of arrival in Brazil.
Foreign residents are advised to register with the consulate
This ID card is the foreigners principal document and
of their country of nationality, informing them of their
will be the basis for obtaining other Brazilian documents.
new address in Brazil and any subsequent change. This

procedure is not obligatory but may facilitate matters if
The new temporary or permanent resident must register
ever the visitor needs a document issued or notarized by
at the Federal Police station nearest to his new place of
his consular authorities.
be issued an identity document to be used during his stay.
All countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Brazil

have an embassy or representative office in the federal
capital of Brazil, Braslia. The United States, the United
Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Japan and many other
countries have consulates in major cities. Some selected
consulates and addresses:
So Paulo
LAW
Rio de Janeiro
American Consulate
Av. Presidente Wilson, 147 Centro
Tel: (21) 2292-7117
American Consulate
Rua Henri Dunant, 500 Chcara Santo Antonio
Tel: (11) 5186-7000
Argentinean Consulate
Praia de Botafogo 228 Sobreloja 201
Tel: (21) 2553-1646/1459/1568/1569
Argentinean Consulate
Av. Paulista, 2313 sobreloja Tel: (11) 3897-9522
British Consulate
Praia do Flamengo, 284 2 andar
Tel: +55 (21) 2555-9600
British Consulate
Rua Ferreira de Arajo, 741 2 andar
Tel: (11) 3094-2700
42
Mexican Consulate
Rua Holanda 274 Jardim Europa
Tel: (11) 3576-5400
French Consulate
Avenida Presidente Antonio Carlos, 58 6 andar
Tel: (21) 3974-6699
French Consulate
Avenida Paulista, 1842 Torre Norte 14 andar
Tel : (11) 3371-54 00
German Consulate
Rua Presidente Carlos de Campos, 417 Laranjeiras
Tel: (21) 2554-0004
German Consulate
Av. Brig. Faria Lima, 2092 12 andar
Tel: (11) 3097-6644
Japanese Consulate
Praia do Flamengo, 200 10 andar Flamengo
Tel.: (21) 3461-9595
Japanese Consulate
Avenida Paulista, 854 3 andar Bela Vista
Tel: (11) 3254-0100
Mexican Consulate
Praia de Botafogo, n 242/301 3 andar Botafogo
Tel.: (21) 3262-3200
WORK CARD
open a bank account must register with federal income

tax authorities, and receive a tax number. The tax
All workers are required to have a Carteira de Trabalho
register is known as the Cadastro de Pessoas Fsicas
e Previdncia Social or Working and Social Security
or Register of Individual Taxpayers. The person no
Document. This is normally referred to as a Carteira
longer receives a plastic card but can print from the
Profissional or Professional Card, although in fact it
Revenue Service website a card, carrying his name and
is a small blue booklet. No company may legally hire a
tax registration number. This card is generally known
worker without such a document. All foreigners who wish
as the CPF. The document and its number are also
to work in Brazil and whose visa grants them that option
frequently referred to by their previous acronym, CIC.
must obtain this document from the closest regional office

of the Ministry of Labor. The Carteira Profissional can
DRIVER LICENSE
only be issued to a person who is already in possession of

a federal ID card (see on the previous topic).
INCOME TAX
This is known as the Carteira Nacional de Habilitao,

or colloquially, the Carteira de Motorista. Foreign
residents may use their national licenses in Brazil for
As a general rule, foreign residents in Brazil will normally
with their resident visa. After this period, if the
face the same tax liabilities as Brazilian citizens.
foreigner has a drivers license issued in a Country
However, individual circumstance should be checked
that participates of the Vienna Convention of the
with a professional who specializes in the tax area. Any
Reciprocity Agreement, he will be able to obtain a
person wishing to be formally employed in Brazil or to
Brazilian Drivers License.

up to 180 days from their first arrival in the country
15.
APPENDIX A
44
LAW
DO YOU NEED A VISA BEFORE

TRAVELLING TO BRAZIL?
WILL YOU MUST ENTER IN BRAZIL
WITHIN 90 DAY OF YOU VISA
ISSUANCE?
Notes:
LP Laissez-Passer
1 China: passport holders must produce copy of last three months bank statement.
2 Venezuela: tourist permission to stay for 60 days maximum.
46
LAW
(90) visa is valid to enter Brazil the first time for a maximum of 90 days from the issuance date of the visa.
16.
APPENDIX B
BRAZILIAN CONSULATES SELECTED
ADDRESSES
AUSTRALIA
Vancouver - Brazilian Consulate-General 666 Burrard St,

suite 2020, V6C2X8 Vancouver, BC, Tel: (604) 696-5311
CHINA
Canberra - Brazilian Embassy, Consular Service 19,
Beijing - Brazilian Embassy, Consular Service
Forster Crescent, Yarralumla Canberra, ACT 2600
27 Guanghua Lu Chaoyang District Beijing 100.600
Tel: (02) 6273-2372, Site: www.brazil.org.au
Tel: (8610) 6532 2881, Site: www.brazil.org.cn
Sidney - Brazilian Consulate-General, Level 6/45, Clarence
JAPAN
St., Sydney, NSW 2000 - Tel: (02) 9267-4414,
Tokyo - Brazilian Embassy, Consular Service
Site: www.brazilsydney.org
COI Gotanda Building, 2F; 1-13-12 Higashi Gotanda;

Shinagawa Ku; Tokyo 141-0022,
Square, Suite 1700, Montreal, Quebec, H3Z 2P9,

Tel: (514) 499-0968, Site: www.consbrasmontreal.org
CANADA
Tel: (813) 5488-5451, Site: www.consbrasil.org
MEXICO
Mexico City - Brazilian Consulate Paseo de ls Palmas,
215, 4 floor, sute 405, Colnia Lomas de Chapultepec
Ottawa - Brazilian Embassy, Consular Service 450
Delegacin Miguel Hidalgo Mxico D.F.,
Wilbrod St. Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 6M8,
Tel: (52) 55 4160-3953, Site: www.brasil.org.mx
Tel: (613) 237-1090; 755-5160, Site: www.brasembottawa.org
RUSSIA
Toronto - Brazilian Consulate-General 77, Bloor St.
Moscow - Brazilian Embassy, Consular Service Ulitsa
West, Suite 1109, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1M2,
Bolshaia Nikitskaia, 54, Moscow 121069,
Tel: (416) 922-2503, Site: www.consbrastoronto.org
Tel: (7-495) 363-0369, Site: www.brasemb.ru
Montreal - Brazilian Consulate-General 1, Westmount
USA
Los Angeles - Brazilian Consulate-General 8484 Wilshire
Atlanta - Brazilian Consulate-General 3500 Lenox Road,
Boulevard, Suite 300, Beverly Hills CA 90211,
suite 800, Atlanta GA 30326, Tel: (404) 949-2400
Tel: (323) 651-2664, Site: www.brazilian-consulate.org
e-mail (provisional): consuladoatlanta@gmail.com

Miami - Brazilian Consulate-General 80 SW 8th Street,
Boston - Brazilian Consulate-General 20 Park Plaza,
26th floor Miami, FL 33130, Tel: (305) 285-6200
Suite 1420, Boston MA 02116,
Site: www.brazilmiami.org
Tel: (617) 542-4000, Site: www.consulatebrazil.org

New York - Brazilian Consulate-General 1185 Americas
Chicago - Brazilian Consulate General 401 North
Avenue 21st floor New York NY - 10036-2601,
Michigan Av, Suite 1850, Chicago IL 60611,
Tel: (917) 777-7777, Site: www.brazilny.org
Tel: (312) 464-0244, Site: www.brazilconsulatechicago.org

San Francisco - Brazilian Consulate-General 300
Hartford - Brazilian Consulate-General One Constitution
Montgomery St, Suite 300, San Francisco CA 94104,
Plaza, Ground Floor Hartford, CT 06103, Tel. (860) 760.3100
Tel: (415) 981-8170, Site: www.brazilsf.org
Houston - Brazilian Consulate-General 1233 West Loop
Washington - Brazilian Embassy, Consular Service 1030
South Park Tower North, Suite 1150 - Houston TX 77027
15th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20005
Tel. (281) 384-4966, Site: www.brazilhouston.org
Tel: (202) 461-3000, Site: www.brasilemb.org
Notes:
LAW
1 This list does not include countries whose citizens do not need to apply in advance for a tourist visa.
2 A full list can be found on the Internet site of the Brazilian Ministry of External Relations: http://www.itamaraty.gov.
48
br/o-ministerio/o-brasil-no-exterior.
17.
ABOUT OUR SPONSOR
CONSULTING AND LEGAL SERVICES
FOR IMMIGRATION
Application for Brazilian identity cards,

driver licenses, work documents and social
security cards;
Atene Assessoria Tcnica S/S Ltda., a legal advisory and
Business and tourists visas at all Embassies

and Consulates;
consultancy firm, established in 1989, has developed a

comprehensive service for Brazilian and multinational
companies and individuals providing legal and consulting
services on immigration rights and issues including
applications for temporary and/or permanent visas for
Legalization of documents at all Embassies

and Consulates.
executives and their families.
Atene advises clients with respect to the appropriate
Specific services include:
provides legal guidance for companies Human
type of visa for a foreigners stay in Brazil, and

Resources staff with respect to pre-employment and
dismissal procedures of foreigners. All work has on-
Temporary visas;
line follow-up via SisAtene, a computerized system
Permanent visas;
process, so assuring speed, efficiency and reliability.
Extension of temporary visas;

Transformation
permanent visas;
of
temporary
visas
into
Permanent visas for foreigners married to a

Brazilian spouse or with a Brazilian offspring;
Uniting families (including stable union partnerships);
Since November 2012, Atene is a CIBT Groups company.

With nearly 50 years experience, CIBT and its subsidiary Visa
Central is the worlds largest processor of international travel
visas and passports. CIBT provides services to individual
travellers, multinational corporations, tour operators, and
cruise lines. CIBT employees are highly trained travel visa
especially developed to verify the progress of each
and passport specialists who offer personalised attention and
For further information, please contact:
responsive customer service. CIBT provides services through

a network of over 31 offices in 11 countries. The CIBT global
team of travel visa and passport experts is committed to
providing our customers and clients with the highest level of
personal attention and professional service. Our experts are
accustomed to meeting tight deadlines and understand the
urgency of last minute trips. CIBT is committed to remaining
the fastest, easiest, and most secure way to obtain travel visas
and passports. Our goal is to provide our customers with
Atene Assessoria Tcnica S/S Ltda
exceptional service each time they use CIBT.
Al. Santos, 2441, 4th floor.
ATENES MISSION
So Paulo - SP - Brazil CEP: 01419-002, Brazil.

Telephone: (55 11) 3065-0655
50
LAW
Fax: (55 11) 3068-0799

Provide immigration consulting services based on ethics,
E-mail: info@atene.com.br
personalization and confidentiality, adding value for clients.
Website: www.atene.com.br
bElo horiZontE
Rua da Paisagem, 220

34000-000 Nova Lima, MG
Tel.: (55 31) 2126-9750 Fax: (55 31) 2126-9772
amcham.belohorizonte@amchambrasil.com.br
braSlia
SHIS QI 5, Comrcio Local - Bloco C 1 andar - Lago Sul

71615-530 Braslia, DF
Tel.: (55 61) 3704-8017 Fax: (55 61) 3704-8037
amcham.brasilia@amchambrasil.com.br
CaMPinaS
Rua Dr. Jos Bonifcio Coutinho Nogueira, 150

Edf. Galleria Plaza 7 andar, sala 701
13091-611 Campinas, SP
Tel./Fax: (55 19) 2104-1250 / 2104-1275
amcham.campinas@amchambrasil.com.br
CaMPo GrandE
Rua Hlio Yoshiaki Ikieziri, 34

Ed. Evidence Prime Office Sala 206 Royal Park
79100-000 Campo Grande, MS
Tel.: (55 67) 3211-0906
amcham.campogrande@amchambrasil.com.br
CUritiba
Rua Joo Marchesini, 139 Prado Velho

80215-060 Curitiba, PR
Tel.: (55 41) 2104-9350
amcham.curitiba@amchambrasil.com.br
Goinia
Avenida T-63, Qd. 145 Lt. 08/09

Edf. New World, sala 105 Setor Bueno
74230-100 Goinia, GO
Tel.: (62)3275-6010 Fax.: (62)4006-1172
amcham.goiania@amchambrasil.com.br
JoinVillE
Rua Dr. Placido Gomes, 610

Edf. Dona Tereza Sala 202 Anita Garibaldi
89202-050 Joinville, SC
Tel.: (55 47) 3028-1239
amcham.joinville@amchambrasil.com.br
Porto alEGrE
Av. Dom Pedro II, 861 8 andar

Prdio do CIEE
90550-142 Porto Alegre, RS
Tel.: (55 51) 2118-3700 Fax: (55 51) 2118-3738
amcham.portoalegre@amchambrasil.com.br
rECifE
Av. Eng. Antnio de Ges, 742

51110-000 - Recife, PE
Tel.: (55 81) 3205-1850
Fax: (55 81) 3205-1865
amcham.recife@amchambrasil.com.br
ribEiro PrEto
Avenida Wladimir Meirelles Ferreira, 1525

Ufficio Commerciale San Paolo, salas 1 e 2
14021-630 Ribeiro Preto, SP
Tel.: (55 16) 2132-4599 Fax: (55 16) 2132-4563
amcham.ribeiraopreto@amchambrasil.com.br
SalVador
Avenida Tancredo Neves, 1632

Edf. Salvador Trade Center
Torre Norte, sala 1307 Caminho das rvores
41820-020 Salvador, BA
Tel.: (55 71) 3480-3481
amcham.salvador@amchambrasil.com.br
So PaUlo
Rua da Paz, 1431 Chcara Santo Antnio

04713-001 So Paulo, SP
Tel.: (55 11) 4688-4102 Fax: (55 11) 5180-3777
ombudsman@amchambrasil.com.br
UbErlndia
Rua Santos Dumont, 46 Santa Mnica

38400-060 Uberlndia, MG
Tel.: (55 34) 2101-4100 Fax: (55 34) 2101-4107
amcham.uberlandia@amchambrasil.com.br
ViSit thE how to wEbSitE:

www.amcham.com.br/howto

How To Obtain Visas For Brazil

Încărcat de

Informații document

Titlu original

Drepturi de autor

Formate disponibile

Partajați acest document

Partajați sau inserați document

Opțiuni de partajare

Vi se pare util acest document?

Este necorespunzător acest conținut?

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

How To Obtain Visas For Brazil

Încărcat de

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

4th Edition

American Chamber of Commerce for Brazil - AMCHAM

Ziara Abud - CEO, Atene Assessoria Tcnica

01 OVERVIEW AND TYPES OF VISA

02 THE TRANSIT VISA

03 THE TOURIST VISA

04 TEMPORARY VISAS FOR BUSINESS AND WORK

05 TEMPORARY BUSINESS VISA BUSINESS TRIP, FAIRS AND

06 THE TEMPORARY WORK VISA

07 OTHER TYPES OF TEMPORARY RESIDENCE VISA

08 THE PERMANENT RESIDENCE VISA

09 THE FOREIGN SENIOR MANAGER

10 THE FOREIGN INVESTOR

11 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR SENIOR MANAGERS AND

12 OTHER RESIDENCE VISA SITUATIONS

13 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ALL RESIDENCE VISAS

15 APPENDIX A - DO YOU NEED A VISA BEFORE TRAVELLING TO BRAZIL? 44

17 ABOUT OUR SPONSOR

Where to start: The first step, before even thinking of

Once you have decided to visit Brazil for pleasure or

your authorized entry into Brazil.

a business trip, or seek to extend an existing visa to

Tourist and transit visas are normally easy to obtain.

amount of bureaucracy. However, procedures are fairly

However, temporary and permanent residence visas require

straightforward if steps are taken in the right order and at

an extensive list of documents. It is always wise to have

the correct time.

a professional specialized in such matters to accompany

Documentation required to obtain a visa can vary from

involved and the constant changes in legislation.

the simple presentation of a passport on arrival in Brazil

Types of visa - Brazil issues seven principal types of visa: Transit;

such as an educational record, certificate of good

Tourist; Temporary; Permanent; Courtesy; Official; Diplomatic.

standing, etc. for foreigners who wish to reside and/or

This publication covers procedures for obtaining the first

It should be noted that this publication is based on legislation

the majority of travelers and businessmen.

and procedures in effect in January 2013, and is therefore

Courtesy, official and diplomatic visas are not dealt within

subsequently by the Brazilian Government.

When a trip to a third country is interrupted in Brazil for

third country, need to pass through Brazilian territory. This

reasons beyond the control of the traveler, the transport

situation typically occurs in flight connections where the

company must communicate this fact to the Federal

passenger has to change planes at separate airports to proceed

Police. They will authorize the foreigners stay for the

on his trip, or in journeys that involve different modes of

period strictly necessary to proceed with the trip. Expenses

transport. Obtaining this type of visa is usually very simple

during the stay are transport company responsability.

basically a case of going to the nearest Brazilian Consulate

07 HOW TO OBTAIN VISAS FOR BRAZIL

and presenting your passport and connection flight ticket.

countries whose citizens need or need not to apply for a

The tourist visa is granted to people who wish to enter

subject to change, it is advisable to check with a Brazilian

Brazil temporarily for tourism, to visit friends or relatives,

Consulate before travelling. Note that the determining

to participate without payment in an amateur sports

factor is the nationality of the applicant, as determined by