Brazil Researcher Visa Specialists: Support for Research Assignments

Understanding the research and academic visa route

The Science, Research, and Academic Visa allows residence authorization for foreign professionals engaged in research or academic activities in Brazil. It applies to scientists, researchers, professors, and other foreign professionals who intend to stay in Brazil for more than 90 days for academic or research purposes. This authorization can be requested either from abroad directly to the consular authority or, if already in Brazil, through the Coordenação-Geral de Imigração Laboral. The residence period under this resolution can be up to two years.

Visa Scope

Brazil, with its diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic academic environment, offers a wealth of opportunities for scientists, researchers, and professors under the appropriate visa category. Here are ten areas where professionals from these fields, particularly from developed countries, could significantly contribute and collaborate:

1. Tropical Ecology and Conservation: Scientists and researchers can engage in studies related to the Amazon rainforest, Pantanal wetlands, and other unique ecosystems, focusing on biodiversity, conservation strategies, and climate change impacts.

2. Public Health Research: Researchers and public health experts could collaborate on studies related to infectious diseases prevalent in Brazil, community health initiatives, or health policy development.

3. Engineering and Technology: Involvement in research and development projects in collaboration with Brazilian universities or tech companies, especially in areas like renewable energy, bioengineering, and IT.

4. Agricultural Sciences: Researchers in agronomy, crop science, and sustainable agriculture can contribute to projects aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in Brazil’s varied climates.

5. Marine Biology and Oceanography: Engaging in research on Brazil’s extensive coastline and marine ecosystems, focusing on marine biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable use of marine resources.

6. Social Sciences and Humanities: Professors and researchers can collaborate on studies related to Brazil’s rich cultural heritage, social dynamics, economic development, or political systems.

7. Astronomy and Space Sciences: Collaborations with Brazilian institutions on space research projects, astronomical observations, and related scientific endeavors.

8. Environmental Policy and Management: Experts in this field can work on projects related to environmental governance, policy-making, and sustainable resource management.

9. Mathematics and Physics: Engaging in academic collaborations, research projects, and teaching in these fundamental sciences at Brazilian universities or research institutes.

10. Medical Research and Teaching: Medical professionals and researchers can participate in clinical research, teaching, and exchange programs with Brazilian medical schools and research hospitals.

These opportunities not only contribute to the advancement of knowledge and science but also foster international collaboration and academic exchange between Brazil and other countries.

Scientist and Researcher Work Visa in Brazil

• For foreign scientists and researchers looking to engage in scientific and technological cooperation activities in Brazil, there are specific visa types that need to be obtained. According to Brazilian regulations, these visas are mainly categorized into two types: Visit Visa (Type I) and Temporary Visa (Type II).

  1. Visit Visa (Type I): This visa is suitable for those planning to participate in conferences, seminars, congresses, meetings, or conduct research, teaching, or academic extension activities for a period of up to 90 days. It is governed by the provisions of Art. 29 and §2º of Decree No. 9,199/2017, in addition to the provisions of Art. 9º of Normative Resolution No. 20/2017 of the National Immigration Council – CNig.

  2. Temporary Visa (Type II): This visa is intended for the development of research, teaching, or academic extension activities for periods longer than 90 days. The validity of the Temporary Visa (Type II) is two years, as established by Art. 7º of Normative Resolution No. 20/2017 of the CNig.

  To apply for either of these visas, the foreign researcher must present to the Brazilian consular authority in their home country the required documents as per consular regulations, and a copy of the CNPq Ordinance published in the Official Gazette (DOU). If staying in Brazil, it is necessary to regularize the status through the General Coordination of Labor Immigration using the Immigration Management and Control System and register with the Federal Police.

  It’s important to note that it is not possible to change the type of visa after arriving in Brazil. Therefore, choosing and applying for the correct visa should be based on the activities to be performed and the planned duration of stay in the country.

Purpose of this Visa

The Resolução Normativa Nº 20 visa is specifically designed to facilitate the entry and residence of foreign professionals in the fields of science, research, and academia who wish to conduct activities in Brazil. It targets scientists, researchers, and professors looking to contribute to academic and scientific advancement within the country. This visa allows these professionals to engage in research projects, collaborate with Brazilian institutions, and participate in academic exchanges, enriching both their personal expertise and the Brazilian scientific community.

Eligibility Criteria

This visa is intended for foreign scientists, researchers, and professors who plan to engage in research or academic activities in Brazil. Eligible applicants must be involved in projects or collaborations that contribute to scientific or academic fields. They should have formal invitations or arrangements with Brazilian research or academic institutions. The visa is applicable for activities exceeding 90 days, aimed at professionals seeking to contribute their expertise to Brazil’s academic and scientific community.

Visa Application

The application process for this visa involves several steps. Firstly, the applicant must secure a formal invitation or arrangement with a Brazilian institution. Then, the application can be initiated either from abroad via the Brazilian Consulate or within Brazil through the Coordenação-Geral de Imigração Laboral. The applicant needs to submit all the required documentation, which will be reviewed by Brazilian immigration authorities. Once approved, the applicant must visit the designated consulate to receive the visa.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit several key documents for the visa application. These include:

• proof of professional qualifications
• evidence of the project or activity to be undertaken in Brazil
• a formal invitation from the Brazilian host institution
• personal identification documents
• criminal background check

Other documents apply and the exact document list may vary based on the specific nature of the applicant’s intended activities in Brazil.

Additional Support Services

Support services for foreign scientists and researchers visiting Brazil under a Resolução Normativa 20 immigration visa encompass a variety of aspects, each crucial for a successful and compliant stay in the country. Here are five key areas of support:

1. Document Preparation: This involves guiding the applicants through the preparation and organization of all necessary documentation for the visa application. It includes ensuring that forms are correctly filled out, personal and professional documents are properly collated, and all submissions comply with Brazilian immigration regulations.

2. Apostille Services: For documents issued outside Brazil, the apostille process is essential for legal recognition within Brazil. Support services assist in obtaining apostilles for foreign documents, ensuring they are authenticated according to the Hague Apostille Convention.

3. Sworn Translation: Brazilian authorities require official translations of all non-Portuguese documents. Support services include providing access to certified sworn translators for accurate translation of documents, which is vital for the application process.

4. Legal Advisory: This encompasses legal advice on Brazilian immigration laws, helping applicants understand their rights and obligations while in Brazil. It also includes assistance with any legal challenges that may arise during the stay, including visa extensions or changes in status.

5. Strategic Advisory: Beyond legal aspects, strategic advice helps applicants adapt to Brazil’s scientific and academic environment. This includes cultural integration, understanding local research and academic practices, and strategies for successful professional engagement in Brazil.

These services aim to ensure a smooth transition and successful professional experience for scientists and researchers coming to Brazil under the Resolução Normativa 20 visa.