This is a post about ways of moving to Brazil.
I don’t know about you but I’ve been obsessed with watching videos of gringos living in Brazil! As a Brazilian who’s always wanted to leave and move abroad, it’s actually so exciting to me to see so many people not only wanting to live iin Brazil but also loving it!
I’ve also been seeing so many travellers fall in love with Brazil and wanting to stay there! So I thought I’d put together this guide to visa types you can get to move to Brazil. Most recently we’ve added a digital nomad visa which is perfect for so many of you as it doesn’t require that much (well… cash! But way less than other countries).
Brazil offers a range of visa options for individuals seeking to live, work, study or retire in the country. Which one are you applying for?
Visitor Visa (VIVIS)
Short-term stays for tourism, business, transit, or cultural activist.
Up to 90 days per visit, with the possibility of extension for another 90 days not exceeding 180 days within a 12-month period.
Requirements:
- Valid passport with at least one blank page.
- Proof of sufficient funds (ie. recent bank statement).
- Return or onward ticket.
- Letter of intent detailing the purpose of the visit.
- Visa fee payment
*Note: As of April 10, 2025, citizens from the U.S., Canada and Australia require a visa to enter Brazil. Applications can be submitted online through the e-visa system.
Read more: 10 Interesting Facts About Brazil
Temporary Visas (VITE)
Temporary visas are designed for individuals intending to stay in Brazil for extended periods for specific purposes.
VITEM I: Research, Teaching, or Academic Activities
- Engage in research, academic projects, or teaching.
- Up to 2 years, renewable or convertible to permanent residency.
Requirements: - Invitation or contract from a Brazilian institution.
- Proof of qualifications and experience.
VITEM IV: Student Visa
- Enroll in educational programs at recognised institutions.
- Typically 1 year, renewable.
Requirements: - Proof of enrolment.
- Financial means to support oneself.
VITEM V: Work Visa
- Employment under a Brazilian contract.
- Up to 2 years, renewable or convertible to permanent residency.
Requirements: - Job offer from a Brazilian employer.
- Approval from the Ministry of Labor.
VITEM VI: Working Holiday Visa
- Combine tourism with short-term work.
- Up to 1 year.
- For citizens aged 18-30 from countries with bilateral agreements (ie. Australia, France, Germany, New Zealand).
VITEM VIII: Volunteer Work
- Engage in unpaid volunteer activities.
- Up to 1 year, renewable.
Requirements: - Affiliation with a recognised organisaton.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
VITEM IX: Investment Visa
- Invest in Brazilian businesses or real estate.
Requirements: - Minimum investment of R$500,000 in a Brazilian company or R$700,000 in real estate (amounts may vary by region).
- Business plan and proof of investment.
- Permanent residency granted upon approval.
VITEM XI: Family Reunification
- Join family members residing in Brazil.
- For spouses, children, parents and other dependents of Brazilian citizens or residents.
- Duration aligned with the sponsoring family member’s status; potential for permanent residency after a specified period.
VITEM XIV: Digital Nomad and Retirement
- Digital Nomad:
- Work remotely for foreign employers while residing in Brazil.
- Requirements:
- Proof of remote employment.
- Minimum monthly income of US$1,500 or bank balance of US$18,000.
- 1 year, renewable
- Retirement:
- Retire in Brazil with a stable pension.
- Requirements:
- Monthly income of at least US$2,000 from a pension or retirement fund.
- *Residency: Initial 2-year residency with the possibility of permanent residency thereafter.
Read more: Brazilian Street Food: the Ultimate Guide
Permanent Residency
Permanent residency can be obtained through various pathways:
- Family Tie: Marriage to a Brazilian citizen or parenthood.
- Investment: Significant financial investment in Brazil.
- Long-Term Residency: Continuous residence in Brazil under a temporary visa.
- Humanitarian Ground: For individuals from countries experiencing conflict or instability.
Usually after 4 years of permanent residency you can apply for Brazilian citizenship! And yes, you’ll need to be able to speak Portuguese for that. (here are some tips for learning languages on your own btw!)
Permanent residents enjoy rights similar to Brazilian citizens, including access to healthcare and education. (public healthcare in Brazil is free and a great reference worldwide! They’re currently working with the UK government to improve the NHS)
Are you thinking about moving to Brazil? Let me know in the comments, I’d love to know and chat some more!
This was a post about ways of moving to Brazil.
