Your Complete Guide to Extended Stays in Brazil: Visas for Foreigners

Brazil is no longer just a vacation destination for Americans. With its warm climate, lower cost of living, vibrant cities, and increasingly accessible immigration pathways, Brazil has become a serious contender for remote workers, retirees, investors, and students looking to base themselves in South America. But navigating Brazilian immigration law is not always straightforward, and recent changes, including a new eVisa requirement for U.S. citizens, make it more important than ever to understand the rules before you book your flight.

Immigration rules change — always confirm current requirements with the official Brazilian consulate or the Ministry of Justice and Public Security (gov.br) before applying.

New eVisa Requirement for U.S., Canadian, and Australian Citizens

Before discussing longer-stay visas, a critical update for American travelers: as of April 10, 2025, U.S., Canadian, and Australian citizens are now required to obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) before entering Brazil, even for short tourist stays. This ended decades of visa-free access under a reciprocity policy. The eVisa costs approximately $80.90 USD and is applied for online through the Brazilian government's official portal before travel. Recent requirements may also request proof of at least US $2,000 in a bank account and a return ticket. EU citizens and many other nationalities can still enter Brazil visa-free for up to 90 days.

The Tourist/Visitor Visa (VIVIS): Your Starting Point

Most foreigners begin their journey in Brazil on a tourist or visitor visa, classified as VIVIS. For nationalities that qualify for visa-free entry, this permits a stay of up to 90 days, which may be extended to 180 days within a 12-month period. For U.S. citizens, the eVisa grants the same 90-day entry. The tourist visa does not permit you to work in Brazil, including remote work for foreign employers, which requires the digital nomad visa described below.

The Digital Nomad Visa (VITEM XIV)

Brazil's Digital Nomad Visa, formally categorized under VITEM XIV, was introduced in early 2022 and has been one of the most popular nomad visa programs in Latin America. It is specifically designed for remote workers who are employed by or provide services to companies located outside of Brazil. If you work for a Brazilian company, this visa does not apply — you would need a standard work visa.

Income and Financial Requirements

To qualify, you must demonstrate one of the following:

• A minimum monthly income of $1,500 USD from foreign employment or freelance clients

• OR a bank balance of at least $18,000 USD

This is one of the lowest income thresholds among major digital nomad visa programs globally, making Brazil accessible to a wide range of remote workers. If you are applying with dependents, expect to show additional income — typically around $500 USD per month per dependent, though you should verify current figures with an immigration attorney.

Additional Requirements

• Proof of employment or service contract with a foreign employer or foreign clients

• Private health insurance valid in Brazil

• A criminal background check from your country of residence

• Valid passport (for at least a year from your expected entry)

Duration and Renewal

The digital nomad visa is initially valid for one year and can be renewed for a second year, for a maximum of two consecutive years under this status. Importantly, time spent on the digital nomad visa does not count toward permanent residency in Brazil. If you wish to stay longer or pursue residency, you would need to transition to a different visa category — such as an investor visa or work visa — before or after your two years.

How to Apply

You can apply either at a Brazilian consulate abroad before traveling, or from within Brazil after entering on a tourist eVisa. Processing typically takes about 30 days, with expedited options available for an additional fee. All applications are processed through the Ministry of Justice and Public Security's MigranteWeb platform. Upon approval, you must register with the Federal Police in Brazil to receive your CRNM (national immigration registry card), as required of all temporary visa holders.

The Student Visa (VITEM IV – Estudante)

If you plan to study in Brazil for longer than 90 days, whether in a university degree program, a language school, an academic exchange program, or a research fellowship, you will need a student visa, categorized as VITEM IV (Estudante). This covers non-remunerated academic activities, meaning you are generally not permitted to hold paid employment in Brazil while on this visa, though limited exceptions may exist for certain internships. Verify current work restrictions with your institution and an immigration attorney.

Requirements

• Formal acceptance letter or enrollment documentation from an accredited Brazilian educational institution

• Proof of financial means to support yourself during your studies

• Valid passport

• Criminal background check

• Application submitted through the Brazilian consulate or, in some cases, through the institution

The student visa is typically issued for the duration of your academic program and is tied to your enrollment. If you withdraw or transfer, your visa status may be affected. Confirm current policies with the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty) or a local immigration attorney.

The Investor Visa (VITEM IX / VIPER Program)

Brazil's investor visa, categorized as VITEM IX under the broader VIPER (Visto de Investidor, Permanente, Especial de Residente) program, is designed for foreign nationals who wish to make a qualifying capital investment in Brazil. Unlike many investment visa programs worldwide, Brazil's investor visa provides a direct pathway to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship, making it one of the more consequential immigration options available.

Investment Minimums

The required investment amount depends on the type and location of the investment. Based on information available as of mid-2026 — note that these figures are denominated in Brazilian reais and their USD equivalent fluctuates with exchange rates:

• Standard business investment (establishing or investing in a Brazilian company): approximately R$500,000 BRL (roughly $100,000 USD at mid-2026 exchange rates, though you should verify current rates)

• Technology or innovation sector startup with an approved business plan: approximately R$150,000 BRL (roughly $30,000 USD — verify current rate)

• Real estate investment: ranges vary by region (R$700,000–R$1,000,000 for standard urban real estate); urban areas generally require higher minimums— verify current requirements with a local immigration attorney

Key Features

• Grants a temporary residence authorization initially valid for two years, renewable indefinitely while the investment remains active

• After four consecutive years with the investment active and maintained, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency

• After permanent residency is established, citizenship eligibility follows after an additional period (Portuguese proficiency and a clean criminal record are required)

• Brazil allows dual citizenship, so American investors do not have to renounce their

  
  

Investors must demonstrate that the investment is not passive, and a viable business plan showing potential for job creation or economic contribution is typically required

Application Process

The investor visa is a two-stage process. First, you must obtain authorization from the Ministry of Justice and Public Security before a Brazilian consulate can process your application. This pre-authorization stage can add two to four months to the total timeline. Applications are processed through the MigranteWeb digital platform. Given the complexity, working with a qualified Brazilian immigration attorney is strongly recommended.

The Retirement Visa (VIPER – Retirado)

Brazil's retirement visa, also designated under the VIPER program, is designed for foreign nationals who can demonstrate a stable, passive income regardless of age. Despite its name, there is no minimum age requirement. You simply need to prove sufficient regular income from pensions, social security, investments, or other passive sources.

As of information available in 2026, one source cited a minimum monthly income threshold of approximately R$6,000 BRL per month (verify current requirements, as this can change). The retirement visa is initially valid for two years and is renewable. It provides a clear and relatively straightforward pathway to long-term residence in Brazil for financially self-sufficient foreigners.

The Family Reunion Visa

Foreigners who are married to, in a stable union with, or have minor children with a Brazilian citizen may apply for a Family Reunion Visa. In many cases, this visa grants immediate permanent residency. If you have Brazilian family ties, this is often the fastest and simplest pathway to legal long-term residence in Brazil. This is a path that is common for foreign parents who give birth to a childen born in Brazil who is automatically a Brazilian citizen.

The Work Visa (VITEM V)

For foreigners who will be employed by a Brazilian company rather than working remotely for a foreign employer, the standard work visa (VITEM V) is required. This visa requires sponsorship from a Brazilian employer and approval from the Ministry of Labor. The employer must generally demonstrate that no qualified local candidate is available for the role. This is a more complex visa with longer processing times and is typically initiated by the Brazilian employer rather than the individual.

After You Arrive: Registering with the Federal Police

All temporary visa holders, including digital nomads and students, are required to register with the Brazilian Federal Police upon arrival. This registration process issues your CRNM (Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório), your official Brazilian immigration identity card. Failure to register can result in fines or complications. The registration must be completed within a specific timeframe after arrival. Confirm the current deadline with your consulate or immigration attorney.

For official, up-to-date requirements, visit the Brazilian consulate website or portaldeimigracao.mj.gov.br.