Brazil is one of the most sought-after destinations for foreigners looking to start a business or invest capital in a dynamic market full of opportunities. With a diversified economy and great growth potential in sectors such as agribusiness, technology, energy, and infrastructure, the country offers legal mechanisms to attract international investors and allow them to settle here with legal certainty. Among these possibilities stands out the foreign investor visa, an instrument provided for in the Migration Law¹ and regulated by Normative Resolution No. 118/2015 of the National Immigration Council², which guarantees residence to foreigners who bring productive capital to Brazil.
What is the foreign investor visa?
The foreign investor visa is granted to foreign citizens who make an investment in a Brazilian legal entity with their own capital, aiming at the development of productive activities in the country. This visa facilitates the investor’s legal entry and stay in Brazil, without depending on naturalization or recognition of another nationality. Currently, the minimum amount required for the visa to be granted is R$ 500,000.00 invested directly in the company, which may be reduced to R$ 150,000.00 when the investment demonstrably creates jobs or targets strategic areas of the national economy. Initially, the visa is temporary, usually granted for two years, and may be renewed or converted into permanent residence as long as the investment conditions are maintained and proven.
What are the requirements to apply for the foreign investor visa?
To apply for the visa, it is necessary to prove the minimum capital contribution in Brazil, present a detailed business plan that demonstrates the economic and social viability of the enterprise, register the company with the CNPJ (Brazilian Taxpayer Registry) with a compatible corporate purpose, and be up to date with the tax and legal obligations of the invested company, both in the country of origin and in Brazil. In addition, proof of the investor’s good standing is required by presenting criminal record certificates in Brazil and in the countries where they have resided. All documents issued outside Brazil must be duly legalized at a Brazilian consulate or apostilled under the Hague Convention and translated by a sworn translator in Brazil.
What is the process like and what is the average time for completion?
The process combines electronic and in-person steps. The application is initially filed digitally through the system of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, where the data and scanned documents are submitted. After the initial review and approval, the investor is summoned to appear in person at a Federal Police unit for verification of original documents, fingerprint collection, and issuance of the National Migratory Registration Card (CRNM). The average time for completing the process ranges from 30 to 90 days, depending on the complexity of the case and the Federal Police unit responsible. Therefore, it is essential for the investor to prepare a consistent business plan in advance and organize all documentation before starting the procedure, ensuring greater speed and security.
Conclusion
The foreign investor visa is an excellent alternative for those who wish to expand their business and live legally in Brazil, contributing to the local economy and taking advantage of the opportunities the country offers. For a smooth and successful process, it is advisable to count on the support of a specialized team that can guide the investor from structuring the investment to migratory regularization. Our firm has extensive experience in immigration and corporate law, with expertise in the field for over a decade, offering comprehensive assistance to foreign investors who wish to reside and do business in Brazil. Our team takes care of all stages of the process with efficiency and security, ensuring that your investment is formalized in compliance with Brazilian law. Contact us to schedule your personalized consultation and take the first step to investing with confidence in Brazil!
André L. C. Delziovo
¹ https://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2015-2018/2017/lei/l13445.htm
² https://portaldeimigracao.mj.gov.br/pt/component/k2/item/11252-resolucao-normativa-n-118-de-21-de-outubro-de-2015
