Residence and Naturalization

To find out more about the types of residence permits and the application process, click here.

Under Brazilian law, an individual can apply for ordinary naturalization if they meet the following conditions:

1. Has civil capacity under Brazilian law
2. R esides  in Brazil for an indefinite period of at least  04  (four) years;  
3. T in ability to communicate in Portuguese;  and
4. He has no criminal conviction  or is rehabilitated, under the terms of the law.

The requirement of residence for an indefinite period for at least 04 (four) years will be reduced to 01 (one) year if the naturalized person fulfills one of the following requirements: 

            I –  have  a Brazilian born or naturalized child, except for provisional naturalization ; or 

            II –  has a Brazilian  spouse or partner and is not legally or de facto separated from him/her at the time the  naturalization is granted.  

The requirement of residence for an indefinite period for at least 04 (four) years will be reduced to 02 (two) years if the naturalized person fulfills one of the following requirements: 

           I – has  provided or is able to provide a relevant service to the Country; or 

           II – if already  recommended for their professional, scientific or artistic capacity.

For immigrants from Portuguese-speaking countries, only: 

          I – residence  for an indefinite period  in the country for one uninterrupted year; and 

          II – moral suitability. 

How can I apply for Naturalization in Brazil?

Step 1 – Access the “ Naturalize yourself ” platform, fill out the form and upload the necessary documents;

Step 2 – After analyzing and approving the documentation, it will be necessary to schedule a day and time to go to a Federal Police unit. To make an appointment, click here;

Step 3 – After processing by the Federal Police, the process will be forwarded to the Migration Department for a decision. At this stage, the Migration Department may notify the applicant, if necessary, to complement the documentation presented;

Step 4 – The decision on the Naturalization application will be published in the Federal Official Gazette.

If the request is  granted , the naturalized person must deliver the National Immigration Registration Card to the Federal Police unit.

If the application is  rejected , the naturalizing person may file an appeal within 10 (ten) days from the date of receipt of the notification.

For more information, visit the Federal Police website.

The residency process is the same for all types, but documentation may vary depending on nationality. To find out more about other types of residence in Brazil, visit here .

To learn more about other types of naturalization, visit here.