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Brazil

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At a glance

Living index rating
Affordable
Monthly rent
R$1,000 – R$2,000 shared room; São Paulo and Rio R$1,500 – R$3,500
Monthly food
R$800 – R$1,500
Other monthly expenses
R$500 – R$1,000 (transport, utilities, phone, health plan, personal)
Visa processing time
About 2 – 6 weeks, depending on the consulate
Family allowed for students
Yes

Visa requirements

  • Temporary student visa (VITEM IV / VITEM-ESTUDO) from a Brazilian consulate, for courses at institutions recognised by the Ministry of Education
  • Acceptance letter from the institution
  • Proof of funds (consulates commonly ask for about US$400 – US$500 a month), scholarship or sponsorship
  • Criminal record certificate and passport
  • Register with the Federal Police within 90 days of arriving to get your national migration registration card (CRNM)
  • Paid work is allowed if it's compatible with your course hours; curricular internships (estágio) are permitted

Work permit after studies

  • Since September 2024, graduates of Brazilian institutions with a job offer can get a 2-year residence permit to work
  • Other options include employer-sponsored work residence permits

Citizenship route

  • Permanent residence can follow 2 years on a work residence permit or through family ties
  • Ordinary naturalisation after 4 years of residence (reduced to 1 – 2 years in some cases, e.g. a Brazilian spouse or child), with Portuguese language skills
  • Dual citizenship is allowed

Family details

  • A spouse/partner and dependent children can apply for family reunion visas linked to your residence
  • You must show you can support them
  • Family members with a family reunion residence can work

Universities in Brazil

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (575), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.