How to move to Brazil via family reunification or marriage: This comprehensive guide explains the official pathways to live in Brazil through family ties. We cover spouse visas and family reunion processes – whether you are marrying a Brazilian or bringing foreign family members to Brazil – with step-by-step instructions, real-world examples, and up-to-date 2025 requirements.
How to move to Brazil via family reunification or marriage: This comprehensive guide explains the official pathways to live in Brazil through family ties. We cover spouse visas and family reunion processes – whether you are marrying a Brazilian or bringing foreign family members to Brazil – with step-by-step instructions, real-world examples, and up-to-date 2025 requirements. Learn how Brazil’s im Brazil’s Migration Law (Law No. 13.445/2017) facilitates family unity, what documents you need, how to apply (inside Brazil or via consulate), and how to avoid common pitfalls on your journey to reunite with loved ones in Brazil. (See: Immigration & Visas hub)
A couple embraces at São Paulo airport, representing a foreign spouse arriving in Brazil.
Family is paramount in Brazilian immigration policy, and the right to family reunification is protected by law. Brazil’s Migration Law (Law No. 13.445/2017) and related regulations ensure that foreigners with close family in Brazil can obtain legal residency in order to live with their loved ones. In practical terms, this means if you have a qualifying relationship to a Brazilian citizen or to a foreign resident in Brazil – for example a Brazilian spouse, parent, child, or dependent – there are clear legal pathways for you to move to Brazil via family reunification. (See: Immigration & Visas hub)
This guide is written for a global English-speaking audience interested in Brazilian family immigration visas. We will focus on official, legally valid pathways as of 2025, based on authoritative sources like the Brazilian government’s portal , Federal Police (Polícia Federal), and Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty). The information is fully up-to-date and reflects current laws and procedures. We’ll cover spouse visas, Family Reunion visa (VITEM XI), and dependent visas in detail – including eligibility criteria, required documents, application steps, processing timelines, and post-arrival requirements. Real-world case studies (e.g. an American marrying a Brazilian, a Ukrainian child reuniting with a parent, an Indian spouse joining a digital nomad) illustrate how these processes work in practice. (See: Immigration & Visas – Marriage/Family)
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Let’s begin by understanding what family reunification visas are and who qualifies, then move on to specific scenarios and procedures. (See: Immigration & Visas hub)
Family reunification visas (sometimes called family reunion visas or family-based residence permits) allow foreign nationals to reside in Brazil based on a family relationship with a Brazilian or with a foreigner who is a legal resident of Brazil. This aligns with Brazil’s commitment to human dignity and family unity. Crucially, Brazil recognizes not only traditional marriage, but also stable unions (common-law partnerships) and extended family dependencies for immigration purposes. (See: Immigration & Visas hub)
Under the Migration Law and its regulations, eligible family members include: spouses and domestic partners, minor children (including stepchildren) or adult children who are dependent, parents (if they need support), and in some cases other economically dependent relatives like siblings, grandchildren or grandparents. Same-sex marriages and partnerships have equal validity in Brazil (same-sex marriage has been legal in Brazil since 2013), so LGBTQ+ spouses/partners are fully eligible for family visas on the same terms.
Key features of Brazil’s family reunification policy: (See: Immigration & Visas hub)
Next, we’ll identify who can be a sponsor (“chamante”) and who can be sponsored (“chamado”) under Brazil’s family reunification rules, and summarize the types of visas available.
Not all family relationships qualify for reunification, but Brazil’s definition is relatively generous. The sponsor (the family member in Brazil, called “chamante”) can be either a Brazilian citizen or a foreign national with legal residency in Brazil (either temporary or permanent). The person seeking to join the family (the applicant, called “chamado”) is the foreign relative abroad or in Brazil. Below is a breakdown of relationships that qualify, along with any important conditions:
Eligible Relationships for Family Reunification in Brazil:
| Sponsor in Brazil | Eligible Foreign Family Members | Key Conditions / Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Brazilian Citizen (or Permanent Resident) |
- Spouse (husband/wife) or domestic partner (stable union companion)<br>- Child (son or daughter) under 18; or up to 24 if a student; or any age if disabled.<br>- Stepchild under 18 (or up to 24 if studying, or disabled).<br>- Parent (mother or father) of the sponsor, if the parent is in need of support/financially dependent.<br>- Grandparent (of sponsor) who is economically dependent.<br>- Grandchild (sponsor’s) under 18 (or up to 24 if studying, etc.)<br>- Sibling of sponsor, if under 18 (or up to 24 and studying, or any age if disabled and dependent).<br>- Other legal dependents under sponsor’s guardianship (e.g. a minor under legal custody, or an adult under curatorship). |
Must demonstrate the family tie with official documents (e.g. marriage or birth certificate). Marriage or stable union must be legally recognized (marriage certificate or court-recognized union). For extended relatives (siblings, etc.), proof of economic dependence on the sponsor is required. A Brazilian sponsoring a foreign spouse must have any foreign marriage registered with a Brazilian consulate or cartório (details in next section). |
|
Foreign National with Temporary or Permanent Residence in Brazil (e.g. work visa holder, student, investor, refugee, etc.) |
- Spouse or stable partner (same criteria as above).<br>- Child/stepchild (same age conditions as above).<br>- Parent of the foreign resident, if lacking means of support.<br>- Grandparent, grandchild, sibling of the foreign resident, under similar conditions (minor or dependent) – though in practice, these cases may need to show strong dependency grounds.<br>- Someone who has a Brazilian child in common with the foreign resident (e.g. foreign father of a Brazilian baby) – special consideration to keep the family together. |
The sponsor (foreign resident) must have a valid residence permit in Brazil (temporary or permanent). The foreign sponsor needs to show their RNE/RNM ID card as proof of status. The foreign family members can only get residency for the duration not exceeding the sponsor’s authorized stay if the sponsor is temporary. For example, if a work visa holder has 1 year left on his visa, the spouse’s residence will typically be granted for 1 year (renewable if the main visa is renewed). Once the sponsor qualifies for permanent residence, the dependents can also adjust to permanent. All relationships must be proven with official docs, and economic dependence proof is required for non-immediate relatives. |
|
Special Case: Humanitarian Visa Holders (e.g. refugees, asylees) |
- Largely the same set of family (spouse/partner, children, parents, siblings etc.), including some extended kin, as defined in Interministerial Ordinance No. 12/2018 (Family Reunification) for Refugee family reunion (UNHCR/ACNUR guidance) and Portaria 38/2023 for certain humanitarian cases (e.g. Haitian residents). |
Brazil allows recognized refugees to bring family via a family reunification visa for refugees. The process involves the refugee (“chamante”) applying through Brazil’s refugee agency (CONARE) to facilitate the visa for relatives. Eligible relatives for refugees can include more extended family (e.g. siblings, in-laws) if economically dependent. There are specific procedures for these cases (covered briefly later). |
Source: The above categories are drawn from Brazilian government definitions and law firm analyses. In summary, spouses/partners and minor children are the most common family reunion cases, but Brazil’s law extends to other dependent relatives as well. Each applicant must prove the family relationship with official documents (and financial dependency when applicable).
It’s important to note that fiancés or unmarried boyfriends/girlfriends do not qualify for a family reunification visa unless you formalize the union. Brazil doesn’t have a “fiancé visa” akin to some countries. You would need to either get married or register a stable union to be eligible as partners. We will discuss how to marry or register a union in Brazil shortly.
One of the most common ways foreigners settle in Brazil is by marrying a Brazilian citizen (or a Brazilian permanent resident). Marriage to a Brazilian (or a formally recognized união estável, i.e. stable union partnership) gives the foreign spouse the right to apply for residency in Brazil. Here’s what you need to know about this process: (See: Immigration & Visas – Marriage/Family)
Marriage vs. Stable Union: Brazil recognizes both civil marriage and stable union (a non-marital cohabitation partnership) for immigration. A stable union (união estável) can be heterosexual or same-sex, and for immigration it is treated equivalent to marriage, provided it is documented officially. To use a stable union as basis, you must show evidence like a civil union registration or a court declaration of the union. (A simple notarized union declaration is not sufficient alone; Brazilian authorities prefer a judicial or government-issued recognition of the partnership.)
Married in Brazil vs. Married Abroad:
Procedure to Marry in Brazil (for reference): If you plan to marry your Brazilian partner in Brazil, you’ll need to gather some documents like your birth certificate, a certificate of single status (or divorce decree if applicable), all apostilled and translated to Portuguese, and file an intention to marry at a Cartório. There is a waiting period (around 30 days) and then a civil ceremony. Many foreigners marry in Brazil on a tourist visa (Brazil allows that), and then apply for residency. Marrying in Brazil gives you that Brazilian marriage certificate which simplifies the residency application.
Rights after Marriage: A foreign spouse of a Brazilian can live and work in Brazil once residency is granted. Additionally, after obtaining permanent residency, the foreign spouse becomes eligible for Brazilian citizenship after 1 year of residency, if the marriage is still in effect. (Law 13.445/2017 reduced the naturalization residence requirement to 1 year for those with a Brazilian spouse or Brazilian child, down from 4 years normally. So, marriage can be a fast-track to citizenship, though you must demonstrate a continued marital bond and basic Portuguese proficiency when applying for naturalization.) (See: Immigration & Visas – Marriage/Family)
Common-Law Union (União Estável): Many couples choose this route if they aren’t
formally married. To use a stable union for immigration, you should either:
- Register a stable
union at a Cartório in Brazil (Escritura Pública de União
Estável). Note: by itself the notarized stable union deed may not be sufficient for the
visa – Federal Police often ask for additional proof or a court declaration if using this route. OR,
-
Obtain a court judgment declaring the union (Sentença Declaratória de
União Estável), which is stronger proof. Some couples file a petition in a Brazilian family
court to get this declaration. If the stable union was formalized abroad, an equivalent document from that
country’s authorities (e.g. civil partnership certificate) can be used, with apostille and translation.
In practice, many foreign partners opt to marry legally because it’s a clearer status for immigration. But stable unions are equally recognized if documented properly. Same-sex partners especially have used stable unions historically (before marriage was available), but since Brazil legalized same-sex marriage, either route is fine.
Marriage Fraud Safeguards: Because marriage is a common immigration route, Brazilian authorities remain vigilant about marriage fraud. During the process, you and your Brazilian spouse/partner might be interviewed together by the Federal Police to establish that your relationship is legitimate (they have the right to do so). Additionally, as mentioned, the initial residence is usually temporary (2 years). If a couple divorces before the foreigner has permanent residence or citizenship, the foreigner’s residency may be cancelled upon review, unless there are other grounds (like a Brazilian child). However, if the relationship was bona fide, the process is straightforward. (See: Immigration & Visas – Permanent Residency)
In summary, marrying a Brazilian (or proving a stable union) gives a direct path to residency. Just ensure all marriage/union documents are properly registered or legalized. Now, let’s look at other family members, like children and parents, and how their visas work. (See: Immigration & Visas – Marriage/Family)
Family reunification isn’t just for spouses. Brazilians and foreign residents can also bring in their children, parents, and other dependents under the family reunion provisions. Here’s how these categories generally work:
Important: In all cases above, documentation and evidence are key. Brazil will not just take your word that someone is your dependent; you must present the proper certificates and legal documents. And any document from outside Brazil must be apostilled (or consular legalized) and translated by a sworn translator into Portuguese. This is a common stumbling block – failing to legalize or translate foreign documents is one of the biggest causes of delays or rejections. We’ll provide a full document checklist in the next section.
Now that we’ve identified who can apply, let’s see what visa or residency options these family members actually get, and then dive into the application process.
When dealing with family immigration, you might encounter the terms VITEM XI and VIPER: (See: Immigration & Visas – Family Reunion)
To clarify, here are typical outcomes for common scenarios:
Think of it this way: If your sponsor has an indefinite right to live in Brazil (citizen or permanent resident), you’ll likely get a path to permanent residency. If your sponsor’s right is temporary, yours will initially be temporary. The goal is to not give a longer status to the dependent than the main sponsor’s status (except when sponsor is Brazilian, which is the maximum). (See: Immigration & Visas – Permanent Residency)
Residence Cards (CRNM): When you obtain residency (temporary or permanent), you will be issued a CRNM – Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório (formerly known as RNE). This is an ID card for foreigners. If you have temporary residency, the card will have an expiration date. If you have permanent, it may be valid for 9 years but legally is indefinite (you just renew the physical card every nine years). As a family reunification resident, your ID card will indicate your category (e.g. “Res. Reunião Familiar”). (See: Immigration & Visas – Residency Permits)
One crucial rule: register within 90 days of arrival in Brazil with a VITEM XI. Those arriving on a family visa must go to the Federal Police and register/fingerprinting, or they risk fines or losing status. (See: Immigration & Visas – Family Reunion)
We will detail the step-by-step application process both for applying at a consulate (getting the visa) and for applying inside Brazil (if you came without the visa). Before that, let’s compile the document checklist you’ll typically need, as this is a major part of the preparation.
Applying for a family reunification visa/residence involves a fair amount of paperwork. Below is a comprehensive list of documents commonly required, with notes:
Tip: Organize your documents in the order listed by the consulate or PF. Make copies of everything (some consulates require that every original document be accompanied by a copy; likewise, Federal Police will keep copies of key documents and might want to see originals). If documents are not in English, Portuguese, Spanish, or French, translation is mandatory. Actually, by law Portuguese translation is required for anything to be used in Brazil, but consulates can accept English/Spanish documents for visa issuance.
For your convenience, we have prepared a Downloadable PDF Checklist of all required documents for Family Reunion/Marriage visa applications, which you can use to track your preparation (link: [Download Checklist]). ✔️📑 (See: Immigration & Visas – Marriage/Family)
Now that you have your documents ready, let’s walk through the application process step by step, first for those applying from outside Brazil (visa at consulate) and then for those applying inside Brazil (residence request).
If you (the foreign family member) are not in Brazil, you will likely apply for a VITEM XI family reunification visa at a Brazilian embassy or consulate in your country. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of that process:
- Tip: Dress neatly and be prepared for a brief interview. While usually consular staff just review paperwork, they might ask you some basic questions about your application (e.g. “When did you marry your spouse?”). Have your answers consistent with the documents.
- Biometrics: Many consulates will take your fingerprints digitally and maybe a photo during your appointment (some now share data with Federal Police). Bring any additional photos as specified regardless.
That covers the consular route. Now, what if you didn’t get the visa abroad and instead traveled to Brazil first (perhaps visa-free or on a tourist visa) and want to apply directly there? That’s our next section.
Brazil’s Migration Law is friendly in that it allows status changes in-country. This means if you are already in Brazil (even as a tourist or visitor), you can apply for a Residence Authorization for Family Reunification (Polícia Federal) at the Federal Police, without having to leave Brazil. Many people take advantage of this – for instance, visa-exempt nationals might come to Brazil to marry and then file for residency.
Here’s the in-country application process, step by step:
The officer will check the paperwork. They might ask a few questions informally, like verifying your address in Brazil, how long you’ve been married, etc. If everything is in order, they will process your request. They will take your fingerprints and a digital photo for the record.
One more thing: if you applied as the spouse of a Brazilian and got a 2-year temporary card, mark your calendar. A few months before it expires, you will need to apply for permanent residency conversion. The conversion (sometimes called “transformação em permanente”) is simpler – you basically show that you’re still married (they’ll ask for an updated statement that you remain together). After that, you get an unlimited permanent card. If, however, the marriage ended before conversion, they may not grant permanent (unless you have a Brazilian child, in which case you could get permanent through the child). (See: Immigration & Visas – Permanent Residency)
We’ve now gone through initial application processes. Next, let’s discuss what happens after you have your visa or temporary residence – what to do upon arriving in Brazil, and some obligations like registration and renewal. (See: Immigration & Visas – Residency Permits)
Once your family reunion visa is approved and you arrive in Brazil (or once your in-country application is approved), there are a few post-arrival steps and responsibilities to keep in mind:
At registration, the officer will take your fingerprints and photo, and then issue a temporary ID protocol. The actual CRNM card might be mailed or picked up later. By registering, you “activate” your residence permit. Failing to register timely can lead to fines and an irregular status.
Let’s illustrate some of these processes with real-world examples, which can help make it clearer.
To provide a practical perspective, here are a few hypothetical but typical scenarios of family reunification in Brazil, based on common situations:
Case 1: American Husband & Brazilian Wife (Spouse Visa)
John, a U.S. citizen, met
Ana, a Brazilian, in the U.S. and they married in New York. They decide to move to Brazil to be near
Ana’s family. First, Ana registers their New York marriage at the Brazilian Consulate in Washington, DC,
obtaining a Brazilian marriage certificate (transcription). John applies for a VITEM XI visa at the
consulate: he fills the form, provides his FBI background check and New York police clearance (apostilled), their
marriage certificate (consular certified), Ana’s Brazilian documents (RG, CPF), and the rest of the paperwork.
After three weeks, John’s visa is approved. He enters Brazil and within a month, John and Ana go to the
Federal Police in São Paulo. The officer asks a few simple questions (how long they’ve been together,
etc.) and verifies the documents. John receives a two-year temporary residence as a spouse of a
Brazilian. After two years of happily living in Brazil, John and Ana return to PF with an updated joint declaration
of union to convert John’s visa to permanent. John now has an unlimited residence. At that
point (and because he’s been resident over 1 year), John can apply for Brazilian citizenship.
He studies Portuguese, passes the language/basic history test, and gets naturalized in his third year in Brazil.
This allows John to hold dual citizenship (the U.S. and Brazil) since both countries permit it. (See: Immigration & Visas – Residency
Permits)
Key takeaways: Register foreign marriage, expect initial temporary residency, need to convert to permanent, citizenship in ~1-2 years after that, process is smooth if docs are in order. (See: Documents & Citizenship hub)
Case 2: Ukrainian Child Reuniting with Mother (Parent & Child)
Oksana is a
10-year-old Ukrainian girl whose mother Viktoria has been living in Brazil. Viktoria originally moved to
Brazil as a skilled worker and obtained permanent residency after a few years. With the war situation, they decide
to bring Oksana to Brazil. Viktoria, now a permanent resident in Brazil, acts as sponsor for her daughter’s
family reunion visa. She obtains Oksana’s birth certificate from Ukraine, has it apostilled
and translated, showing Viktoria as the mother. Because Oksana’s father isn’t coming, they needed the
father’s notarized consent for the child to immigrate (translated to Portuguese). They apply at the Brazilian
Embassy in Warsaw (as they are displaced in Poland): Oksana’s visa is processed as a dependent child of a
permanent resident. After arrival in Brazil, they register Oksana with Federal Police. Because Viktoria is a
permanent resident, the child is granted permanent residency as well. Oksana enrolls in school in
Brazil and adapts, eventually becoming fluent in Portuguese. Down the line, after 1 year, Viktoria could apply for
Brazilian nationality and include Oksana (minors can derive citizenship in some cases). Alternatively, Oksana can
wait until 18 and apply herself if she wants. (See: Documents &
Citizenship hub)
Key takeaways: Minor children of legal residents can be reunited; need consent from the non-accompanying parent; child usually gets same status (in this case permanent); ensure guardianship paperwork is correct.
Case 3: Indian Spouse of a Digital Nomad (Dependent of Temporary Resident)
Rahul, from
India, obtains a new Brazilian Digital Nomad Visa (a temporary visa that lets remote workers stay
in Brazil for 1 year). Rahul moves to Brazil. Six months later, he wants his wife Priya to join him.
Rahul’s visa is temporary (not permanent), but Brazilian law allows him to bring immediate family as
dependents. Priya could not apply at the same time from India because the digital nomad visa was individual, but now
Rahul has residency. Rahul contacts the Brazilian consulate in Mumbai to arrange a VITEM XI for Priya as
spouse of a temporary resident. They provide Rahul’s RNE card copy, their marriage certificate
(apostilled & translated), Priya’s police clearances, etc. The consulate issues Priya a VITEM XI. Priya
flies to Brazil and they register at PF. Priya is given a temporary residence tied to Rahul’s visa
expiration date (so roughly 1 year validity). This status allows Priya to live and even work in Brazil.
When Rahul extends his digital nomad visa for another year, Priya simultaneously extends her residency (showing
proof Rahul’s stay was extended). The second year, Rahul finds a Brazilian employer to sponsor a permanent
work visa, and he becomes a permanent resident. Priya then applies to change her status to
permanent based on now being spouse of a permanent resident (or she could continue as dependent until
renewal and then convert via the PF process code 286). Throughout, their marriage remained the basis of her stay.
(See: Immigration & Visas – Digital
Nomad)
Key takeaways: Dependents of temporary visa holders get matching temporary visas; must renew in tandem with the main holder; once main holder gets permanence, dependents can also get permanent. The process involves multiple renewals if the main visa is extended.
Case 4: Brazilian sponsoring Elderly Parent from Portugal (Parent Visa)
Marcos is a
40-year-old naturalized Brazilian originally from Portugal. His 70-year-old mother Fernanda, a widow, is
alone in Portugal with little income. Marcos decides to bring her to live with him in Brazil. Because Fernanda is a
parent of a Brazilian, she qualifies for family reunification. They apply at the Brazilian consulate in Lisbon.
Fernanda provides a Portuguese police certificate, and Marcos provides proof that Fernanda is financially dependent
(he shows he’s been sending money monthly, and a letter explaining her pension is very low). The consulate
issues Fernanda a VITEM XI visa. On arrival and registration, Fernanda is granted permanent
residency as the ascendant of a Brazilian (the PF treats it as indefinite due to age/dependence).
Fernanda settles in Brazil. Later, she even obtains access to Brazil’s public healthcare (SUS) as a resident
senior. She doesn’t plan to work or naturalize, but if she did, after 4 years of residency she could apply for
citizenship (language might be a barrier though). (See: Documents
& Citizenship hub)
Key takeaways: Parents of Brazilians can get permanent residence; need to document the support relationship; this is an important option for those caring for aging parents.
These cases highlight different facets: spouse of citizen, child of resident, spouse of temporary resident, and parent of citizen. Each follows the general rules we’ve outlined, with slight variations in documentation and outcome (temporary vs permanent).
Next, let’s cover some frequently asked questions (FAQ) and common issues/mistakes to avoid.
Q: Do I need a lawyer to handle a family reunification application?
A:
It’s not required. The process is designed to be done by individuals, and many successfully do it themselves
by following official guidelines. However, if you have an unusual case (e.g., complicated dependency proof, criminal
record issues, etc.) or if you’re not confident with Portuguese and bureaucracy, a lawyer or experienced
immigration consultant can help ensure forms are correct. But for straightforward cases, save money by doing it
yourself with careful attention to detail.
Q: Can I work in Brazil while my family reunion application is in process?
A:
If you applied at a consulate and entered Brazil with the visa, yes – once you register, you can work. If you
applied inside Brazil (without a consular visa), technically you should wait until you at least have the
protocol from the Federal Police. The protocol is proof of legal temporary status. Brazilian law
allows immigrants with pending residence authorization to work, but some employers prefer the actual work permit or
residency approved. The new Migration Law ended the need for a separate work permit for residents. So basically,
as soon as you are a temporary resident (even during those first 2 years), you can work legally.
Prior to getting the residence protocol (say you’re on a tourist visa that hasn’t been converted yet),
you are not allowed to work. (See: Work
& Business hub)
Q: What if I enter Brazil without a visa (visa-free entry) – can I really apply
there?
A: Yes. Many nationalities (EU citizens, Americans, etc. as of 2025 need
visas again? Actually note: Brazil announced reinstating tourist visa requirements for US, Canada, Australia, Japan
from Jan 2024). But if you enter on any legal basis (tourist, business, etc.), you can apply for residency during
your stay. Your status switches from visitor to resident once approved. Do not overstay your visa waiver or visa
expecting automatic conversion; you need to formally apply and get the protocol. If you did overstay, they might
forgive it if you have a strong case (especially for immediate family of Brazilians, they often waive penalties
except the fine). It’s best to initiate the process while in status to avoid complications.
Q: Does Brazil have a fiancé visa, or can I bring my boyfriend/girlfriend before
marriage?
A:No fiancé visa in Brazil. The closest is to
come on a tourist visa, get married or register a stable union in Brazil, then apply for residency. There is also no
“pacsed” or common-law visa unless you have the stable union officially recognized. So, you either marry
or formalize the union to qualify. Another approach some take: if the Brazilian partner can’t leave Brazil
easily and you want time together before marriage, the foreign partner can use tourism to spend time in Brazil (max
90 or 180 days/year depending on nationality) but for a long-term move, marriage/union is necessary.
Q: My marriage is not working out and I only have temporary residency – what happens if we
separate?
A: If you separate or divorce before your status is
permanent, you should notify the Federal Police. By law, the basis of your residency ended, so they
could cancel your residency. In practice, if you have a compassionate reason (for instance, if there was
abuse, you can petition to retain residency on humanitarian grounds). If you have a Brazilian child from the
marriage, you can apply for residency as the parent of a Brazilian which would be independent of your spouse. If you
are already a permanent resident when you divorce, you generally keep your residency, but if the authorities suspect
the marriage was fraudulent from the start, they could investigate and potentially revoke it. Each case is
individual. The 2-year temporary period acts as a “good faith” test. (See: Documents & Citizenship –
Parents’ Residency)
Q: Do same-sex partners get equal treatment in family visas?
A: Yes,
absolutely. Same-sex marriage and stable unions are recognized in Brazil. The immigration process is identical. The
key is having the official marriage certificate or stable union document. A gay foreign spouse of a Brazilian goes
through the same reunification visa, with no additional requirements. Brazil has granted many residency visas to
same-sex spouses/partners since legalizing these unions.
Q: What are common mistakes that lead to delays or denials?
A: Some pitfalls
to avoid: - Not legalizing documents: Forgetting to apostille or legalize a foreign marriage/birth
certificate is a top mistake. Without an apostille, the document is not valid to Brazilian authorities. - No
translation: Submitting documents in your language without an official Portuguese translation (when
required). Brazil requires sworn translations for documents like birth, marriage, police certs unless exempted. -
Missing registration deadline: If you got the visa but didn’t register in 90 days,
you’ll incur fines and risk having to start over. - Inconsistent info: Names not matching on
documents (e.g., someone’s name changed after marriage but passport is not updated). Always explain and
provide supporting docs (e.g., marriage cert showing name change). - No proof of dependence for extended
family: People try to bring, say, a 22-year-old sibling without showing they’re a student or
dependent – this will be denied without solid proof. Or sponsoring a parent who still has a job and income
– that might not be approved because they’re not dependent. - Application in wrong
jurisdiction: You must apply where you legally reside. If you send your application to a consulate
where you have no jurisdiction, they’ll reject it. - Criminal issues: Not disclosing past
convictions (which will show up in police checks) – it’s better to be upfront by providing all
documents; minor offenses might be overlooked, but lying is grounds for denial. - Expired
documents: Some consulates require that documents like police certs be issued within 90 days. If yours
is older, get a new one. - Sponsor not present (in Brazil): If the sponsor is not in Brazil at all,
technically they should at least express intention to go with the applicant. If a Brazilian citizen is living abroad
and sending the spouse ahead alone, that can raise questions. At minimum they need that declaration they plan to
live in Brazil too. - Forgetting to update PF on changes: After getting residency, if you change
your address or renew your passport, you need to update the Federal Police. Also, if you get a new passport, carry
the old one with the visa until you update your RNM.
Q: How long do I have to live in Brazil to not lose my residence?
A: As
mentioned, avoid staying outside Brazil for more than two consecutive years (for permanent
residents) or beyond the validity for temporary. Temporary residents shouldn’t exceed their allowed absence
(some temporary visas require you not be out of Brazil more than 180 days per year, check the specific resolution).
Permanent residents are safe up to 2 years out; beyond that, PF can cancel your registration (this is in Decree
9.199/2017 (regulation
of the Migration Law), Art. 135). If you need to stay away longer, there’s a process to ask PF for an
exception (rarely used).
Q: I’m the spouse of a foreigner who is not Brazilian but has residency; do I have to renew my visa if
my spouse renews his?
A: Yes, your status as a dependent is linked. Example: if
your spouse is on a 2-year work visa, you also got 2 years. When they renew for another 2 years, you must apply to
renew your dependent residence for that period as well. This usually is easier – you show that the
principal’s visa was extended and that your marriage is still ongoing (sometimes just a form). Eventually,
when the principal gets permanent residence (after say 4 years of work visa), you can then apply for permanent as
well (or automatically get if part of the same process). Keep track of both of your expiration dates.
Q: Are there any quota or financial requirements for family
visas?
A:No quotas – any number of family visas can be
issued. No explicit income requirement – unlike some countries, Brazil doesn’t mandate
the sponsor have a certain salary. However, the consulate or PF does require signing a term of responsibility and
will refuse the visa if it’s obvious the sponsor cannot support the immigrant at all (the law expects the
sponsor to provide for the dependant). In practice, you aren’t asked to show pay stubs (except maybe if
sponsoring extended dependents to prove you can support them). So officially there’s no minimum income rule,
just the general principle of support.
Q: My spouse and I are both foreigners moving to Brazil, one on a job, one as dependent – what if the
principal applicant loses their job or visa?
A: If the principal visa (say a work
visa) ends (e.g., job contract terminated), the dependents’ visas also become subject to cancellation, because
the basis (the principal’s authorization) is gone. There is usually a grace period to leave or find another
basis (in the new law, if a temporary resident loses status, dependents also lose). However, if the dependent finds
their own reason to stay (like gets a job themselves, or has a Brazilian baby), they could apply for a different
category. But generally, the family’s status is tied to the main status. This is why permanent residency (or
citizenship) for the principal is desirable for family stability. (See: Documents & Citizenship hub)
Those cover many frequent questions. If you have specific doubts, Brazil’s Polícia Federal FAQ and the Itamaraty visa FAQ can be useful, and don’t hesitate to contact the consulate or PF offices – they are quite helpful in guiding family-based applicants.
Finally, below is a recap in flowchart form of the family reunification process for a typical case (spouse of a Brazilian), which can help visualize the steps:
Flowchart: Process of obtaining a family reunification visa for Brazil (spouse case). It starts from
gathering documents, applying at consulate or in Brazil, to obtaining the visa, traveling, and registering with
Federal Police.
(The above flowchart illustrates the sequence: Relationship proof → Visa application or direct PF application → Approval → Travel → Federal Police registration → Temporary residence → (after 2 years) Permanent residence → (if desired) Naturalization.)
Below is an additional FAQ section marked up for structured data, answering common queries on this topic:
Each family member must have their own visa or residence application. However, you submit them together. For example, a foreign worker moving to Brazil will apply for their work visa, and their spouse/children each apply for VITEM XI visas referencing the principal’s application. If applying inside Brazil, each dependent files a separate request, but the cases are linked as family. There isn’t a single “family visa” covering everyone under one application – it’s multiple applications handled concurrently.
Congratulations – your child is Brazilian by birth. As a parent of a Brazilian, you become eligible to convert your status to permanent residency immediately. You don’t even need to wait for your original temporary visa to run its course. You would apply for an “authorization of residence for having a Brazilian child” at the Federal Police. This is a straightforward process and effectively grants you permanency to ensure you can care for your Brazilian child. (See: Documents & Citizenship – Parents’ Residency)
Brazil recognizes same-sex marriage regardless of foreign country laws. If you married in a country where it’s legal, it’s valid for Brazil. If your home country doesn’t allow it, you could marry in Brazil or a third country. Stable unions can also be used. Brazilian consulates will process same-sex spouse visas the same way. There is no discrimination in Brazilian immigration based on gender of the spouses.
Generally no medical exam is required for family visas. Brazil doesn’t mandate health checks for family reunion applicants (unlike some countries that require medicals for immigrants). During COVID, vaccination or tests were travel requirements, but not part of visa issuance. As of 2025, there’s no routine medical exam or X-ray required. However, certain countries’ nationals might need yellow fever vaccination proof when entering Brazil, and if you are adjusting status in Brazil and have lived in places with certain diseases, occasionally health clearance might be asked (rarely). Always check current health/travel advisories.
You must use a “tradutor juramentado”, which is a sworn public translator in Brazil. These are certified translators appointed in each state. You can find lists on junta commercial websites. The translation must be done in Brazil to be officially accepted (in practice, consulates sometimes accept local translations for visa stage, but for PF stage, they want Brazilian translations). Plan to translate key documents (marriage cert, birth cert, police records) as soon as you arrive if you didn’t before. The translator will give you stamped hard copies which you include in your application.
If the worst happens and the Brazilian sponsor (citizen or permanent resident) dies, Brazilian law allows the foreign family member to retain their residency. The residence permit would not be automatically cancelled; on the contrary, you may be eligible for permanent residence on humanitarian/family grounds if you weren’t already permanent. This prevents double tragedy of losing status after losing a family member. You would need to inform the Federal Police and likely they will convert your status to a permanent one on the basis of having had that bond.
For example, if you came on a student visa and then married a Brazilian, you can apply to change to residence by family reunification from within Brazil. Or if you had a work visa and now prefer to be a dependent of your spouse, you can change status at the Federal Police (though usually it’s not necessary to “switch” – you can just let your new family-based residency supersede when approved). The key is you can hold only one principal residency status at a time. Switching is allowed as Brazil doesn’t force you to exit to change status.
If a family reunification visa is denied, you typically get a reason. Common reasons might be insufficient proof of relationship or inadmissibility due to serious criminal history. Minor paperwork issues usually result in a request for more info rather than outright denial. If denied, you can appeal via the consulate or Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or simply fix the issue and apply anew. For in-country denials, you can file an administrative appeal with the Ministry of Justice. Given family unity is a right, outright denials are uncommon except for fraud or security issues. Most problems can be remedied by providing the missing document or clarification.
There isn’t a formal interview like in some countries (no Stokes interview or such). The consular officer or PF agent may ask simple questions about the relationship to verify it’s not fake. For example, “How did you meet your spouse?”, “When was the wedding?”, “Do you have children together?”, “When did your sponsor move to Brazil?” etc. It’s usually casual. They might also ask about your plans in Brazil (where will you live, what do you plan to do). The tone is generally welcoming; they just need to document due diligence. As long as you answer truthfully and consistently with your documents, there’s nothing to worry about.
We’ve covered a lot! The process can seem daunting, but once you break it down, it’s quite manageable, and Brazilian authorities are generally cooperative in reuniting families.
Brazil’s immigration system strongly favors keeping families together. Whether you are marrying a Brazilian, joining a parent or child in Brazil, or accompanying a spouse who got a job in Brazil, the Family Reunion and Marriage visas provide a clear path to residency and eventually citizenship.
In this guide, we’ve provided an encyclopedic overview – from the big-picture legal rights down to the fine details of which form to fill and where to get a photo. The key takeaways are: know your eligibility, prepare your documents diligently, follow the official steps, and respect the timelines. By doing so, you can avoid most pitfalls and experience a smooth immigration journey. Remember that maintaining honesty and providing thorough evidence of your family ties is crucial – Brazilian authorities will support you if your relationship is genuine and the paperwork is in order.
Living in Brazil as a family can be a rewarding experience – you’ll enjoy the rich culture, warm people, and the comfort of having your loved ones by your side. With your new residency, you’ll be able to work, study, open businesses, and fully integrate into Brazilian life. Over time, you might choose to become a Brazilian citizen, further cementing your place in this nation.
We hope this comprehensive guide has demystified the process of obtaining Family Reunion & Marriage Visas for Brazil. From the first idea of “maybe I can move to Brazil” to the day you receive your CRNM card, the journey requires patience and preparation, but it is very achievable. Thousands of families successfully reunite in Brazil every year – you can be one of them, now armed with the knowledge to do it the right way.
Safe travels and best of luck on your move to Brazil! 🇧🇷
For further reference and official information, please consult:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
(Itamaraty) visa instructions – e.g. Family Reunion (VITEM XI) page.
- Polícia
Federal guidelines on Residence Authorization for Family Reunion and their FAQ.
- Brazil’s
Migration Law (Lei 13.445/2017) and Decree 9.199/2017 (which provide the legal framework for everything
discussed).
- Your nearest Brazilian Consulate’s website, which often has specific checklists
and local instructions.
Obrigado! Thank you for reading. Boa sorte with your family reunification process in Brazil!
With over 14 years of experience in obstetrics, including a wide range of care from prenatal monitoring to labor and postpartum recovery.
An obstetrician in Brazil – providing professional support for expectant mothers. My name is Diego Di Marco, and I am an obstetrician with over 14 years of experience and more than 2,000 successful deliveries. I place a special emphasis on providing quality care for expectant mothers at every stage of pregnancy, from prenatal care to childbirth.
How to move to Brazil via family reunification or marriage: This comprehensive guide explains the official pathways to live in Brazil through family ties. We cover spouse visas and family reunion processes – whether you are marrying a Brazilian or bringing foreign family members to Brazil – with step-by-step instructions, real-world examples, and up-to-date 2025 requirements.
