A Complete Guide to Brazil’s Retirement Visa (VITEM XIV)

Dreaming of spending your retirement in one of the most vibrant and sunny countries in the world? Brazil’s Retirement Visa, known as VITEM XIV, is your gateway to permanent residency, based on a stable retirement or pension income. This guide details everything you need to know to plan your move and navigate the visa required process for your Brazilian retirement adventure.

Quick Tip: All foreign documents must be apostilled (or legalized, if the country is not a signatory to the Hague Convention) and then translated by a sworn translator in Brazil. Don’t skip this step!

Eligibility: Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the Retirement Visa, you need to meet certain fundamental retirement visa requirements:

• Retirement Status: You must prove that you are retired according to the laws of your country of origin. While there’s no specific minimum age defined by Brazilian immigration law for this visa, your status as a retiree is what counts.
• Proven Monthly Income: You must demonstrate a monthly retirement or pension income equivalent to at least US$2,000.00 (two thousand US dollars).
  • Your income must be verifiable through official documents and must be transferable monthly to a Brazilian bank account.
  • A bank letter will be necessary to prove that you are able to make international transfers to Brazil.
• Clean Criminal Record: You’ll need to provide a police clearance certificate from your country of origin, proving the absence of any criminal history.
• Health Insurance: In some situations, especially if your application is made from abroad, proof of valid health insurance in Brazil may be requested. If the application is made in Brazil, you can use the public health care system.

The Application Process: Your Path to Brazil

The submission process for obtaining the Retirement Visa involves several important steps:

1. Gather Documents: The first step is to collect all necessary documentation, ensuring they are apostilled and translated as required.
2. Online Application/Consulate: Start your application by filling out the online visa form from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE). Afterward, physically submit your documentation at the Brazilian consular office in your country of residence. Alternatively, it’s possible to start the process while in Brazil on a tourist visa and request a status change with the Federal Police, but the consular route is more common for the initial visa application.
3. Application Analysis: The Consulate (or Ministry of Justice and Public Security) will thoroughly review your documents and information as part of Brazil’s immigration policy.
4. Visa Issuance: If your application is approved, the residence permit will be affixed in your passport, if the request is made at the consulate.
5. Registration with the Federal Police (Crucial): This is a vital step! Within 90 days of your arrival in Brazil (or approval if the status change is done in the country), you must register with the Federal Police in the city where you intend to reside to formalize your residence authorization and obtain your CRNM (Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório). If the application is made in Brazil, you will have 30 days.

Essential Documents (Apostilled & Translated)

Careful preparation of your documentation is key. Remember: all foreign documents must be apostilled (or legalized) and then translated by a sworn translator in Brazil, if the application is not made at the Brazilian consulate.

• Valid Passport: With at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay.
• Visa Form: Filled out online and signed.
• 3×4 Photos: Recent, colored, with a white background, passport style.
• Birth Certificate: Original or certified copy.
• Marriage Certificate: Original or certified copy, if applicable.
• Police Clearance: Issued within the last 60-90 days.
• Proof of Retirement/Pension: Official document from the originating institution detailing the monthly income amount, and a bank statement proving the funds.
• Proof of Residence: In your country of origin.
• Health Insurance: If requested.
• Proof of Visa Fee Payment: The amount may vary.
• Itinerary.

Fees & Processing Times

• Visa Processing Fee: Approx. US$290.00. (Additional fees may apply based on nationality.)
• Processing Time: 5-10 business days (via Consulate). May vary depending on the volume of applications.
• Initial Visa Validity: Generally, 1 year (or 2 years of residence if applied for in Brazil). This is considered a temporary visa.
• Path to Permanent Residence: Possible after 2 years of temporary residence.
• Path to Brazilian Citizenship: Possible after 4 years of permanent residence (Brazil allows dual citizenship). The process will be made as a naturalization.

Important Notes

• No Work Rights: The Retirement Visa in Brazil does not grant work rights. Your income must be exclusively passive, and not from an economic activity. After getting your permanent card, you may get your CTPS.
• Cost of Living and Location: The cost of living and safety vary significantly between cities and regions in Brazil. Research thoroughly to find the ideal location for you and based on the minimum investment opportunities.
• Portuguese: While not a mandatory requirement for the visa, learning Portuguese is highly recommended for your daily integration into Brazilian society and to fully enjoy the local cultural activities.
• Property Ownership: Foreigners can own properties in Brazil, but there are some exceptions in restricted areas (such as rural land and border regions).
• Family reunification visa: You can bring your legal depends (e.g. spouse, children)

With this guide, you’re better prepared to take the next steps toward your retirement in Brazil. Planning is key to a smooth and peaceful transition! Remember, seeking expert guidance can be invaluable when navigating the complexities of Brazilian immigration law and ensuring a successful application process.

Need more information, read the normative resolution online.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed immigration lawyer for guidance tailored to your situation.