Brazil eases visa regulations for Portuguese-speaking countries. The Lula government has released new favorable rules for temporary visas and residency.
Justice Minister Flavio Dino and Foreign Affairs Minister Mauro Vieira made the announcement on September 5, 2023.
These rules come from a pact among the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP).
Nine countries are in the CPLP: Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor-Leste.
Brazilians in Portugal can now regularize their stay through this agreement. In Brazil, certain professionals can get a two-year temporary visa.
The list includes teachers, researchers, skilled technicians, entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, and exchange students.
People must apply for visas in their home countries at Brazilian Embassies or Consulates. They need to show they can support themselves while in Brazil.
Foreigners already in Brazil can apply for residency, no matter how they entered.
These people must also apply at Federal Police units, show financial proof, and have a clean criminal record.
The rules will start on October 2.
CPLP
The CPLP was founded in 1996 to foster closer ties between Portuguese-speaking countries. Brazil, being the most populous member, has a key role in the organization.
For years, many Brazilians have moved to Portugal and other CPLP nations. Now, this new visa rule aims to reciprocate that flow.
Portugal has been popular among Brazilians for its cultural familiarity and job opportunities.
Meanwhile, Brazil has been attracting professionals and students from CPLP countries. The visa move can benefit both sides by encouraging skilled migration.
Before this change, visa processes varied greatly among these countries. Some demanded stringent requirements, making it hard for people to move.
With these new rules, Brazil hopes to make it easier for qualified individuals to contribute.