3 paths for long-term residency in Brazil require up to $2,000 monthly income

How the VITEM XIV pathways work

Brazil maintains three main residence routes for foreigners planning long stays: the digital nomad track, the retirement and pensioner track and family reunion. The digital nomad framework was formally regulated in January 2022 under Resolution 45 and remains in force, with consular pages through 2026 listing the same financial thresholds.

Applicants on the VITEM XIV digital nomad route must show either $1,500 in monthly income or $18,000 in savings, plus proof that the work is remote for a foreign employer or client. Retirees applying under the pensioner track must demonstrate a monthly transfer to Brazil of at least $2,000. Visas are issued for up to one year, with residence periods extendable up to two years.

Who each track covers

• Remote workers with foreign-sourced income qualify under the digital nomad category if they meet the income or savings floor.
• Retirees and death-pension beneficiaries use the pensioner route, provided the $2,000 monthly transfer is verifiable.
• Spouses, partners, children, parents, siblings, grandparents and grandchildren of Brazilian citizens or lawful foreign residents qualify under family reunion.
• Tourists and business visitors remain on short-stay visitor rules. Paid employment inside Brazil isn't permitted on a visitor visa.

Documents, fees and post-arrival steps

Digital nomad and retiree applications both require a passport, completed visa form, photo, proof of income or pension, health insurance and a criminal-record check. Family reunion applicants must add proof of the qualifying relationship, the sponsor's ID and residence documents and a sponsor declaration.

Fees vary by consulate. The foreign ministry's family reunion page states the applicant will be told the exact amount by the embassy handling the case. Applications generally start online, with document upload followed by a consular appointment.

After arrival, long-stay visa holders typically register with the Federal Police within 90 days. The registration step finalizes the residence record and triggers issuance of the foreigner ID used for banking, leases and tax filings.

Read our full Brazil guide for the complete picture or browse more nomad news on long-stay residence routes.