Brazil
Business visit visa / Work visa
The immigration laws of Brazil provide many options to employers of foreign nationals. Requirements, processing times, employment eligibility, and benefits for accompanying family members vary by visa classification.
A business entry authorization is required for any business activities in Brazil. Visa-waived nationals may receive the business entry authorization upon arrival, while visa nationals must obtain a Visitor Visa from a Brazilian consular post.
Foreign nationals who intend to work in Brazil must secure work authorization through one of the two main categories:
- Temporary Visas: Suitable for various categories of workers, technicians, and investors. Temporary visa applicants file their visa requests at a Brazilian consular post once they have secured approval from the Ministry of Justice. Visa validity is granted based on the visa type.
- Residence Authorization: Suitable for various categories of workers and investors who are in Brazil and wish to change their status to a resident permit in country. Depending on the residence type, the application can be filed with the Ministry of Justice or with the Federal Police. Validity is granted based on the residence type.
Some of the most common visa and residence types are:
- Work Contract Visa – for foreign nationals under a local work contract with a Brazilian company, valid for up to two years (when a previous residence authorization is held).
- Technical Assistance Visa – for foreign nationals providing technical assistance, valid for up to one year.
- Technical Urgency Visa - for foreign nationals providing urgent technical assistance, valid for up to 180 days.
- Transfer of Technology Visa – for foreign nationals transferring technology by training Brazilian nationals, valid for up to one year.
- Statutory Director Visa - for foreign nationals joining a Brazilian companys Board of Directors, valid indefinitely (when a previous residence authorization is held) or for up to three years in the case of incorporated companies.
- Mercosur Residence – for nationals of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.