Basic Concepts

Work Permit

The concession of work permits to foreigners, is the sole authority of the Ministry of Labor as required by Brazilian consular authorities, in conformity with current legislation referring to the concession of permanent and/or temporary visas to foreigners who wish to remain and work in Brazil.

Visa

Is, an administrative act under the authority of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs which results in a consular authorization registered in the passport of foreigners and which allows them to enter and remain in Brazil, if immigration law requirements are met.

Temporary Visa

Is the authorization, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through Brazilian consulates abroad, issued to foreigners who wish to travel to Brazil:

I - cultural trip or study mission;
II - business trip;
III - as an artist or sportsman/sportswoman
IV - as a student
V - as a scientist, professor, technician or professional of other area, under contract or in the service of the Brazilian Government;
VI - as a news correspondent for a newspaper, magazine, radio, television or foreign news agency;
VII - as a religious minister, a member of a sacred institution and/or congregation or of a religious order.

For points III and V, a temporary visa requires also a Work Permit. Consult Administrative Procedure for further information.

Permanent Visa

Is, the authorization issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the foreigner who wishes to settle down in Brazil. In the cases of high level scientists or specialists, investor (juridical person) or administrator, manager or director of a commercial or civil firm, the concession of this type of visa also requires a Work Permit issued by the Ministry of Labor.

Reception Units

Are, the administrative units of the Ministry of Labor, Regional Departments and Sub-Departments and the Secretariat of the Ministers Office, with competence to act upon the Application of Work Permit for Foreigners documentation.

The Secretariat of Labor Relations - General Immigration Coordination

Is the administrative department with the power of decision on Applications for Work Permit for Foreigners.

Firm

Is the juridical person, established in Brazil.