Since 2022, Brazil has offered a specific visa for digital nomads. It allows foreign professionals to live in Brazil while working remotely for companies or clients based outside the country. If you want to enjoy Brazilian life without breaking immigration rules, this is probably the visa you should look at first.

This guide is not a substitute for legal advice, but it will help you understand the basics before you talk to a consulate or an immigration professional.

1. Who the Brazil digital nomad visa is for

The Brazilian digital nomad visa is designed for people who:

• Work remotely using a computer and the internet;
• Receive their income from a foreign employer or foreign clients;
• Do not sign a local Brazilian employment contract;
• Can prove a stable income or savings at the level required by the current rules.

In simple terms: if you are a remote worker, freelancer or business owner serving clients abroad and want to live in Brazil for more than a short tourist stay, this visa category is probably the right path.

2. Basic requirements (what consulates usually check)

Exact documents can vary slightly between consulates, but most of them look for the same elements:

• Valid passport for the whole period you plan to stay;
• Proof of remote work – an employment contract, service agreement or company documents showing that you work for a foreign entity and can work from anywhere;
• Proof of income or savings – usually showing at least a specific minimum income per month from foreign sources, or a minimum amount in savings (often mentioned around USD 1,500/month or USD 18,000 in savings in public guidance);
• Health insurance valid in Brazil for the duration of your stay;
• Clean criminal record certificate from your country of residence;
• Completed visa application form and payment of the consular fee.

Always check your local Brazilian consulate’s website before applying, because details and document formats can change over time.

3. Where and how you can apply

There are generally two ways to start your Brazil digital nomad visa process:

1. Apply from abroad at a Brazilian consulate in your country of residence. You submit all documents, wait for approval and then travel with the visa in your passport.
2. Apply from inside Brazil, if your situation and nationality allow it, using the official online system and then finalizing the process with the Federal Police. This is usually for people who are already in the country on another status and decide to change to the digital nomad category.

Processing times can vary between consulates. It is a good idea to apply well before your planned travel date and keep copies of every document you submit.

4. Length of stay and renewals

The digital nomad visa is generally granted for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal for another year if you still meet the requirements. In many cases, this means you can stay legally in Brazil for up to two years as a digital nomad.

Renewals normally require updated documents proving that you continue to work remotely for foreign entities and still meet the financial and insurance conditions.

5. Everyday life in Brazil as a digital nomad

Once you arrive with your digital nomad visa, your daily life in Brazil will be similar to any remote worker who lives here long term. Some practical aspects to keep in mind:

• Address registration: you may need to register your address and immigration details with the Federal Police;
• Banking & payments: many nomads keep their international accounts and cards, and complement them with local digital bank accounts for easier payments;
• Housing: you can use mid-term rentals, coliving, or normal local contracts depending on how long you want to stay in each city;
• Language: English is used in some professional and tourist environments, but learning basic Portuguese will transform your experience and make everyday life much smoother;
• Community: you will find growing digital nomad and expat communities in cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Florianópolis, Salvador and Recife.

6. Taxes and legal considerations

Immigration rules and tax rules are not exactly the same thing. Even with a digital nomad visa, spending many months per year in Brazil may create tax residency depending on your situation.

Because tax law is complex and very personal, it is wise to talk to a qualified professional before making long-term decisions that affect your company structure or personal taxes.

7. Practical checklist before you apply

Before starting your Brazil digital nomad visa application, make sure you:

1. Confirm your eligibility on the official website of the Brazilian consulate responsible for your place of residence;
2. Prepare contracts, bank statements and letters that clearly prove your remote work and income;
3. Buy international health insurance that explicitly covers Brazil;
4. Request your criminal record certificate with enough time in advance;
5. Decide which city you will use as your first base once you arrive.

Need help navigating the Brazil digital nomad visa?

If you prefer not to deal with all the complexity alone, our team at Nomad Visa Brazil can guide you through the process, help you organize your documents, and share practical insights about everyday life in your chosen city.

Contact us here or send us a message on WhatsApp and we will be happy to review your situation and suggest the best next steps.