Family reunion visa (VITEM XI) and residence authorisation
Brazil grants a temporary family reunion visa (VITEM XI) abroad, or a residence authorisation inside Brazil, to close relatives of Brazilians and of immigrants who hold a residence authorisation. Holders may do any activity in Brazil, including paid work, on equal terms with nationals. The relative's residence ends when the sponsor's does if the sponsor has fixed-term residence, and is indefinite if the sponsor's is indefinite.
Life in Brazil
Money
3
Currency
Brazilian Real
BRL
Brazilian Real
Cost of living
46
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
7.5–27.5%
Income tax (national)
From 2026 a monthly reduction makes taxable income up to BRL 5,000/month effectively exempt (phased out up to BRL 7,350); 27.5% applies above BRL 4,664.68/month on the base table.
Living
1
Happiness
#30 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Your edge here Premium
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Who it’s for
Spouses or partners (without discrimination), children, parents of Brazilian or resident children, grandparents and grandchildren, siblings, and people who have a Brazilian under their guardianship, of a Brazilian citizen or of an immigrant with a residence authorisation.
Eligibility
Family link
Spouse or partner; child; person with a Brazilian or resident child; ascendant or descendant up to the second degree; sibling; or person with a Brazilian under their guardianship, custody or curatorship.
Adult siblingsSiblings
A sibling aged over 18 must prove economic dependence on the sponsor.
Sponsor's status
The sponsor must already hold a residence authorisation (or be Brazilian). It is not granted if the sponsor's own residence is based on family reunion or is a provisional residence authorisation.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Document checklist
- Fees
- Steps to apply
The full requirements are for members
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- 10 documents
- 3 fees
- 3 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Places to visit in Brazil
Attractions picked for you, based on your profile and interests.
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Official sources
Other routes to Brazil
- Visit & tourismVisitor visa (VIVIS) for tourism, including the e-Visa for US, Canadian and Australian citizens
- StudyTemporary Study Visa (VITEM IV) and residence for study
- Work permitsResidence authorisation for work with an employment contract
- 3 more routes with Premium
