How to Apply for Brazilian Residency Through Marriage at a Brazilian Consulate in the USA

If you are a U.S. resident married to a Brazilian citizen and wish to move to Brazil, you can apply for a family reunification visa (VITEM XI) at any Brazilian consulate in the United States. This process allows you to legally enter Brazil and, upon registration with the Federal Police, convert your temporary visa into permanent residency.

What is the VITEM XI Visa?

The VITEM XI visa is a temporary visa granted to foreign nationals who are family members of Brazilian citizens. For spouses, it provides a legal pathway to enter Brazil and secure permanent residency. Though issued as a temporary visa, it is convertible into permanent residency once you register in Brazil.

General Step-by-Step Guide for All Brazilian Consulates in the U.S.

1. Confirm Your Jurisdiction

• First, determine which Brazilian consulate serves your state at https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br/assuntos/portal-consular/reparticoes-consulares-do-brasil/regiao/estados-unidos/estados-unidos

2. Gather Required Documents While exact requirements can vary slightly by consulate, here are the standard items needed:

• Valid Passport (minimum 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)

• Completed Online Visa Application Form (via the consulate’s e-consular platform)

• Passport-Sized Photo (2x2 inch, white background)

• Proof of Legal U.S. Residency (if not a U.S. citizen)

• Birth Certificate (apostilled and translated into Portuguese by a sworn translator in Brazil)

• FBI Background Check (issued within the last 60 days, apostilled and translated; not needed for minors)

• Marriage Certificate (must be registered at a Brazilian consulate or transcribed in Brazil)

• Brazilian Spouse’s ID (e.g., passport, RG, or CRNM)

• Residence Declaration:

  • If your spouse resides in Brazil: proof of address (utility bill, lease, etc.)

  • If living abroad: a signed declaration of your joint intent to live in Brazil, with a future address if known

  • If residing with a third party: that person should provide a declaration, proof of address, and ID copy

• Travel Itinerary (flight reservation showing intent to enter Brazil)

• Visa Fee (typically paid by money order; check your consulate’s website for the exact amount and payment method)

3. Submit Through the e-Consular Portal

• Most consulates use the e-consular platform. Follow instructions carefully, upload required documents, and await review.

4. Schedule an Appointment

• Once your documents are approved online, you may be asked to attend an in-person appointment with originals.

5. Visa Issuance

• Processing times vary by consulate but generally take 2 to 4 weeks. Once approved, the visa is affixed to your passport.

After You Arrive in Brazil

• You must enter Brazil within 90 days of the visa issuance date.

• Upon arrival, register with the Federal Police within 90 days to obtain your CRNM (Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório).

• This registration converts your VITEM XI visa into permanent residency.

Final Tips

• Always verify requirements with your specific consulate, as procedures and document checklists can vary.

• Translate and apostille documents in advance to avoid delays.

• Keep digital and printed copies of everything you submit.