Things You'll Need:
- Temporary Visa (Based on your work or length of stay)
- Airline Ticket
- Portuguese Classes
- Shipping Service (For your belongings)
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Step 1
Assess your personal situation regarding your desire to move to Brazil. Consider if you have an employer who will send you to Brazil with the company or if you will be looking for a job once you arrive. Decide if you want to move to Brazil for a short time or an extended period.
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Step 2
Plan an initial trip to Brazil and explore the area where you are hoping to move. Keep in mind if you would like to live in an area with other expatriates. Larger cities such as Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte and Sao Paulo attract people from other countries, but some can also be found in places such as Curitiba and Porto Alegre. The smaller the city, the less likely you will be able to find fellow ex-pats.
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Step 3
Apply for a tourist visa with the Brazilian Embassy that has jurisdiction over your current area. You will need a passport, passport photos, a copy of your flight itinerary and a fee of US $130.
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Step 4
Sign up for Portuguese classes if you do not already speak the language. It is possible to find English speakers in larger cities, but overall it is much less common than in other non-English speaking countries. You will find it easier to get around and get things done if you have at least a basic knowledge of the Portuguese language.
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Step 5
Travel to Brazil and visit with real estate agents, called immobiliária, during your trip to search for available apartments or houses. Check out any job opportunities at this time if you are not moving with an employer. It is likely you will need to be fluent in Portuguese to get a job in the country.
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Step 6
Begin the application process for the appropriate temporary or permanent visa when you return from your initial visit. There are a variety of visa types and all are based on specific criteria. If you have plans to work in Brazil with an international company or have a work contract with an entity in Brazil you will need a Temporary V. If you are an exchange student you will need a Temporary I and if you plan to move to Brazil long term such as in retiring to the area you will eventually need to seek a Permanent visa.
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Step 7
Take as little as possible with you for your move. You may be able to ship goods through international shipping services; however, many items may be taxed heavily by the Brazilian government. Consider packing your necessary possessions within your airline baggage limits and purchase things such as furniture, home goods and other necessities once you arrive.
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Step 8
Register with the Federal Police once you get to Brazil. Fill out any additional paperwork and wait for the arrival of your CPF card and the assignment of your RNE number, which are forms of identification necessary for living in Brazil.
