Move to Brazil

Huge, joyful country of beaches, music and an irresistible social life

Brazil has a digital nomad visa (VITEM XIV) for people working remotely for foreign employers or clients, with modest requirements ($1,500 a month or $18,000 in savings). Retirees can get a residence visa by transferring at least $2,000 a month. From 1 September 2026, nationals who don't need a tourist visa get temporary visas electronically, without handing in a passport.

Routes we checked: 1
Digital nomad visa: Not in our data
Language: Portuguese
Currency: BRL
Last checked: 30 October 2026

Retirement visa

Ways to live in Brazil

These are the residence routes in Bordr's guide that we have checked against official sources. Each one links to the government page.

Programme details are shown in English.

Retirement visa Retirement visas →

Temporary visa for retirees and pensioners (VITEM XIV – aposentadoria)

For people with a retirement or survivor's pension who transfer at least $2,000 a month to Brazil.

What you need: Proof of a pension and a bank letter confirming at least $2,000 a month can be transferred to Brazil (other regular income can top it up). You also need a criminal record certificate, a birth or marriage certificate and health insurance valid in Brazil.
Income: from about $2,000 a month
How long: Visa valid 1 year; register with the Federal Police within 90 days of arrival to get your residence card
Renewable: Yes
Cost: Consular visa fee (varies by consulate and nationality)
Processing time: From 15 working days at some consulates
How to apply: At a Brazilian consulate abroad, or via the e-visa system for visa-exempt nationals from 1 Sept 2026
Family: Family members can come with you
Path to permanent residence: Residence is granted after arrival, when you register with the Federal Police.

Official page

Cost of living

Monthly amounts in US dollars.

One-bedroom flat	$240
Two-bedroom flat	$470
Bills	$50
Typical local salary	$530

Cities to consider

Climate by month, neighbourhoods and costs for each city are in the Bordr guide.

What life is like

Programme details are shown in English.

Why people move

Brazil offers Atlantic beaches, rainforest, waterfalls and cities with a strong pulse. Life is social, with street food, samba and long weekends by the sea. Expats often choose Florianópolis, Rio, São Paulo or the northeast coast.

Day to day

Distances are vast, so domestic flights and overnight buses are standard. Public healthcare is free but stretched, and private plans are common. Instant bank transfers are used everywhere, internet is good, and Portuguese is a must.

Trade-offs

Street crime is a real concern in big cities, and neighbourhood choice matters. Bureaucracy is notoriously complex, and imported goods and electronics are expensive.

Before you move: visa-free entry

Most people arrive as visitors first, then apply from inside the country or come back with the right visa. How long you can stay as a visitor depends on your passport:

Visa rules for every passport

Questions

Does Brazil have a digital nomad visa?

Not among the routes we have checked. Remote workers usually come as visitors within the visa-free limit or use one of the other routes on this page.

How can I move to Brazil?

The routes we have checked are: Retirement visa.

Can I retire in Brazil?

Yes, through: Temporary visa for retirees and pensioners (VITEM XIV – aposentadoria).

When was this information checked?

The residence routes for Brazil were last checked against official sources on 30 October 2026.

Sources and last check

Residence routes for Brazil were last checked against official sources on 30 October 2026.

This page is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Requirements change; confirm with the official government page or a licensed adviser before you apply.