Brazilian Permanent Residency for Foreign Citizens Through Marriage

Welcome to the comprehensive guide on acquiring Brazilian permanent residency through marriage. If you’re a foreign citizen married to a Brazilian or planning to tie the knot soon, this pathway offers a secure and efficient route to establishing a life together in this captivating country. You don’t need a permanent visa, or any visa for that matter. You can go straight for a permanent residency in Brazil. Our aim is to provide you with a clear understanding of the permanent residency process, its requirements, benefits, and the necessary steps to secure your permanent resident visa based on Brazil marriage.

➡️ Portuguese version for you to share with your Brazilian spouse.

Understanding Brazilian Permanent Residency by Marriage:

Brazil values family unity and recognizes the significance of relationships. As a result, the process for obtaining permanent residency through marriage is designed to facilitate and support spouses of Brazilian citizens.

Those living under the so-called “União Estável” (how Brazilians refer to common-law marriage meaning a de-facto marriage without having married formally) are also entitled to the same benefit. Special requirements may apply, but getting an “Escritura de União Estável” nowadays will pretty much work just like regular marriage paperwork!

We like to say that marriage-based residency is at the top of the Brazilian immigration framework. This will give you additional benefits later on as the highly-sought citizenship under the fast track!

Important: when entering Brazil, you may need an eVisa if you are a citizen of the US, Australia, or Canada.

No Need for a “Brazil Marriage Visa”

This program allows you and your partner to build a life together in Brazil without the complications of temporary visas, frequent visa renewals, or any marriage visa.

Let’s delve into the details of how you can achieve permanent residency in Brazil through marriage based on the Brazil immigration requirements.

Brazil Permanent Residency by Marriage
How To Get Started

[email protected]
(214) 432-8100
+55-21-2018-1225
Schedule your Consultation Now!

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for permanent residency through marriage (also known as “Brazil marriage visa requirements”), you must meet specific eligibility criteria from the Brazilian immigration:

1. Marriage: You must be legally married to a Brazilian citizen or in the process of becoming married. Well-documented common-law marriage (so-called “União Estável”) may also qualifyu

2. Relationship Documentation: Provide tangible evidence of your genuine marital relationship or your documented intent to marry. This may include photographs, correspondence, joint financial responsibilities, and other credible proof.

3. Financial Capacity: Demonstrate that both you and your spouse possess the financial capability to support yourselves while residing in Brazil.

4. Document Submissions: Submit all necessary documentation, which may encompass marriage certificates, shared property ownership, evidence of joint responsibilities, and other documents supporting the authenticity of your relationship.

5. Background Checks and Certificates: Undergo thorough background checks and furnish relevant certificates to establish a clean legal record.

6. Application Submission: Prepare and lodge your application for permanent residency through marriage with the Brazilian immigration authorities.

Important: Read until the end of this page to find our free downloadable checklist!

Such requirements are not always intuitive for applications, and securing a Brazilian immigration attorney is highly advisable.

Where to Apply

Let’s get this out of the way: there is no such a thing as applying for the permanent residency at a Brazilian consulate or embassy abroad.

You must be physically in Brazil to qualify and apply for such important immigration benefit. The point here is that Brazil is not giving you this benefit to avoid aggravation when arriving at the Brazilian customs at the airport (yes, we have heard that before in our consultations more than once). Instead, this is being provided so you can legally live in Brazil.

Being aware of the legendary and unfortunate “jeitinho brasileiro”, the Brazilian immigration has at least four major safeguards to help Brazilians and their foreign citizen partners refrain from attempting to apply from abroad: 

a) You must apply while physically in Brazil

While the documentation may be provided remotely, your application won’t move along until you show up in person (yes, both of you) at the Brazilian Federal Police in Brazil.

b) You must sign an affidavit under perjury of law

People nowadays can travel very easily across the world. Gone are the days when traveling abroad was a life-changing event. We have some clients who have traveled to Brazil over a hundred times, can you believe it?

The downside is that applicants may be tempted to lie that they are living in Brazil when, in fact, they are simply spending vacation.

By asking applicants to sign such an affidavit, Brazilian immigration (hopefully) reduces the burning desire of some to lie about living in Brazil.

c) Proof of residence

One of the requirements for you to apply for permanent residency through marriage is to present a valid proof of residence in Brazil. While a utility bill is the preferred way to prove you have a fixed address in Brazil, some alternatives exist for those who do not have such type of evidence.

d) The Brazilian immigration will * secret *

Ok, this one is probably the most efficient way for Brazilian immigration to catch those trying to cheat the “must be living in Brazil!” requirement. But, while we do not disclose this clever strategy of the Brazilian immigration here, we do disclose this information on page 6 of our ebook!

Benefits of Brazilian Permanent Residency by Marriage

Gaining Brazilian permanent residency (aka “Brazil marriage permanent visa”) through marriage extends numerous benefits to you and your spouse:

• Sustaining Family Unity: This program allows you both to live, work, and thrive together in Brazil without the stress of frequent visa renewals.

• No need for any type of visa: while countries such as the US will require visas for a spouse of a US citizen, Brazil will give spouses of Brazilian nationals an option to apply for permanent residency without any prior visas.

• Work and Study: Enjoy the freedom to work and study within Brazil without the need for additional permits.

• Access to Services: Benefit from access to healthcare, education, and other essential social services.

• Travel Flexibility: The permanent resident visa Brazil marriage allows you to enter and exit Brazil at your convenience, ensuring you can visit your home country and return effortlessly.

• Path to Citizenship: As time progresses, the option to apply for Brazilian citizenship becomes available, further solidifying your ties to this vibrant nation.

Brazil Permanent Residency by Marriage
How To Get Started

[email protected]
(214) 432-8100
+55-21-2018-1225
Schedule your Consultation Now!

Begin Your Journey to Brazilian Permanent Residency

Embracing the journey to Brazilian permanent residency through marriage is an exciting endeavor. Our experienced legal team at Oliveira Lawyers is dedicated to making this process smooth and efficient for you and your spouse. Our consultations are easily accessible via Skype, Zoom, or WhatsApp, enabling you to receive expert advice regardless of your location.

>> Schedule your Consultation Now <<

By signing up for a consultation, you’re taking the first step toward a promising future together in Brazil. Remember, permanent residency Brazil through marriage is not just a legal status; it’s the foundation of a shared life of opportunities and experiences in this remarkable country.

Brazil Permanent Residency by Marriage
How To Get Started

[email protected]
(214) 432-8100
+55-21-2018-1225
Schedule your Consultation Now!

Document Checklist

This document checklist is a great point to get started in your journey. You should secure legal representation, granted, but by just reviewing this checklist you will have a better idea about what the basic documents required for the marriage-based permanent residency are.

Download a PDF version of our world-famous checklist.

Our YouTube Videos

Our YouTube videos address the key elements of a marriage-based permanent residency in Brazil. Waste no time! Here are our videos packed with helpful resources for your journey:

MUCH MORE HERE IN OUR YOUTUBE PLAYLIST!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Brazilian Permanent Residency by Marriage Program?

   The Brazilian Permanent Residency by Marriage program enables foreign citizens married to Brazilian citizens or with planned marriages to obtain permanent residency, allowing them to live and build a life together in Brazil.

2. How can I qualify for Permanent Residency Brazil Through Marriage?

   To qualify, you need to be legally married to a Brazilian citizen or in the process of marrying. You must provide evidence of your relationship, financial capacity, undergo background checks, and submit necessary documentation.

3. Do I need to prove my Relationship’s Authenticity?

   Yes, providing proof of a genuine marital relationship or intent to marry is crucial. This might include photographs, joint financial responsibilities, shared property ownership, and other substantial evidence.

4. Can I apply if my Marriage is in the Future?

   Getting to the point of applying for residency can easily take a few months. Therefore, if you start early on – even before marrying – you can have a head start and apply shortly after the actual marriage. Some of our clients retain our services well before marrying so they can get the proper documentation upon marrying and avoid unnecessary delays in securing Brazilian residency for the foreign spouse.

5. What Documents are Required for Submission?

   Required documents may include marriage certificates, evidence of shared responsibilities, background checks, financial documentation, and more. Consult with our bilingual attorneys for a comprehensive list.

6. How long does the Application Process Take?

   The application process duration can vary from one to a few months. It involves preparing and gathering the needed documents, paying the immigration fees, filing your documents with the immigration processing system, answering questions that may arise, and attending one or more interviews at the Brazilian Federal Police (which handles immigration in Brazil). Consult with our bilingual attorneys for an accurate time estimate based on your specific situation.

7. Are there Financial Requirements for Both Partners?

   Yes, you and your Brazilian spouse need to demonstrate financial capacity to support yourselves in Brazil.

8. Can I Work and Study in Brazil with Permanent Residency by Marriage?

   Absolutely. The program grants you the right to work and study in Brazil without the need for additional permits.

9. What Benefits Does Brazilian Permanent Residency Offer?

   The benefits include family unity, the freedom to work and study, access to essential services, travel flexibility, and a potential path to Brazilian citizenship.

10. How can Oliveira Lawyers Assist me?

    Oliveira Lawyers is experienced in immigration matters. We offer consultations via Skype, Zoom, or WhatsApp to guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth transition to permanent residency in Brazil.

11. What if my Brazilian spouse and I don’t have a joint bank account?

    While a joint bank account might be helpful, other forms of shared financial responsibility can also be considered as evidence of your relationship. Consult with our bilingual attorneys for guidance on alternative proofs.

12. Can same-sex couples apply for Permanent Residency Brazil Through Marriage?

    Yes, although some people often address the “gay marriage visa Brasil”, same-sex couples are eligible and welcome to apply under the same program. The Brazilian government recognizes and respects relationships of all orientations.

13. Can I travel freely outside Brazil with Permanent Residency by Marriage?

    Yes, you can travel in and out of Brazil without limitations. The permanent resident visa based on marriage provides travel flexibility for you and your spouse.

14. Do I need to speak Portuguese to apply for Permanent Residency by Marriage?

    While Portuguese language skills are beneficial for daily life in Brazil, they are not a requirement for this program. However, being able to communicate in Portuguese can enhance your overall experience and will be a requirement for Brazilian citizenship if you decide to pursue one.

15. Can I apply for Brazilian citizenship immediately after obtaining Permanent Residency by Marriage?

    Brazilian citizenship typically requires a specific residency period as a permanent resident before you can apply. Consult with our bilingual attorneys to understand the naturalization process and its requirements.

16. Are there any restrictions on the type of marriages that qualify?

    Until recently only civil marriages would qualify. Nowadays, it is possible to apply for this benefit based on common-law marriage as well (meaning “União Estável” as we say in Portuguese). However, there is a need for solid documentation supporting the existence of such common-law marriage. It’s essential to consult with our bilingual lawyers to ensure your marriage arrangement meets the program’s criteria.

17. Can I bring my children to Brazil under the Permanent Residency Brazil Through Marriage program?

    Children of the Brazilian spouse will automatically be considered Brazilian citizens. Children of the foreign spouse that are not children of the Brazilian spouse might be eligible to accompany you to Brazil based on the family reunion visa. Discuss family immigration options with our bilingual attorneys to ensure a comprehensive plan.

18. Is there an age requirement for the Brazilian Permanent Residency Through Marriage program?

    While age isn’t a specific eligibility factor, all applicants must meet the program’s criteria, including having a genuine marital relationship or planned marriage with a Brazilian citizen.

19. Can I apply for the Brazilian Permanent Residency by Marriage program if I’m already in Brazil on a different visa?

    Depending on your current visa status, you might be able to apply for a change of status to the permanent residency program. Consult with our bilingual attorneys to explore this option based on your circumstances.

20. Can I apply for the Brazilian Permanent Residency by Marriage program if I’m already in Brazil on a different visa?

    Depending on your current visa status, you might be able to apply for a change of status to the permanent residency program. Consult with our bilingual attorneys to explore this option based on your circumstances.