The Family Reunion Visa (VITEM XI) is a temporary visa designed for foreign family members of Brazilian citizens or residents. Notably, it is renewable each year and can lead directly to permanent residency. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a close family relationship with a Brazilian citizen or legal resident. Eligible family members include spouses or partners, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, and grandchildren.
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To qualify, applicants must have a close family relationship with a Brazilian citizen or legal resident (spouse, partner, parent, or child).
In some cases, proof that the Brazilian relative can provide support if needed
Additionally, same-sex partnerships have been recognized (since 2013)
| Category | Eligible Applicant | Legal Basis / Condition | Observations |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Spouse or de facto partner | Legally recognized spouse or stable partner of Brazilian citizen, VITEM holder, or residence permit holder, under Brazilian legislation. | No discrimination applied under Brazilian migration law. |
| II | Child of sponsor | Child of Brazilian citizen, VITEM holder, or residence permit holder. | Proof of parent-child relationship required. |
| III | Parent of Brazilian child | Applicant must have a Brazilian national child. | Birth certificate required. |
| IV | Parent of foreign child with residence permit | Applicant must have a child holding valid Brazilian residence permit. | Supporting residency documentation required. |
| V | Ascendants (up to second degree) | Parents or grandparents of Brazilian citizen or residence/VITEM holder. | Documentary proof of lineage required. |
| VI | Descendants (up to second degree) | Children or grandchildren of Brazilian citizen or residence/VITEM holder. | Proof of family relationship required. |
| VII | Siblings | Must be under 18 years of age; if over 18, proof of financial dependence is mandatory. | Dependency must be formally demonstrated. |
| VIII | Legal guardian / ward relationship | Applicant must hold legal guardianship or tutelage over a Brazilian minor. | Court or legal documentation required. |
| General Provision: The Temporary Visa XI (Family Reunion) may be issued subject to nationality-specific requirements. In certain cases, prior authorization from the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE) may be required. | |||
Applicants must provide:
Valid Passport
Marriage Certificate (for spouses) or Partnership Certificate (recognized unions)
Birth Certificate (for children or parents)
Proof of a Brazilian relative’s citizenship or legal residency
(If applicable) Financial support documentation from the Brazilian relative
Note that all foreign documents must be apostilled & translated in Brazil
Importantly, the Family Reunion Visa is designed to unite families in Brazil. As a result, it offers legal residency, yearly renewals, and a direct path to permanent residency, allowing family members to live, work, and study in Brazil with confidence.
The application process typically begins at the Brazilian consulate in the applicant’s home country, though some steps may also be completed in Brazil. Processing times can vary depending on the consulate and the completeness of the documentation. It is recommended that applicants ensure all documents are up-to-date and correctly apostilled to avoid delays. Once granted, holders of the VITEM XI visa have the right to reside legally in Brazil, and after meeting the necessary residency requirements, they may be eligible to apply for permanent residency or eventual Brazilian naturalization.
