Residency opportunities in much of the world used to be limited for anyone born in a country with a weak passport ranking. However, thanks to the growing popularity of global citizenship and residency-by-investment programs, anyone with the means can now broaden their horizon by securing access to a secure, stable and prosperous home from home.
When looking for the program that’s right for you, you’ll need to consider many factors, from timescales and eligibility to investment levels and potential benefits. If you’re looking for a base in South America, the Brazil Permanent Residency Investor Visa (VIPER) is well worth your consideration.
Offering a low cost of living, an excellent climate, access to a large and growing economy, and a potential path to full citizenship, Brazil’s VIPER is fast becoming one of the most popular programs in the region.
Eligibility criteria
As a Brazilian Permanent Residency Investor Visa holder, you and your family are free to live, work, study, and retire in this beautiful South American country. However, you’ll need to check your eligibility before you apply.
In short, you must pass a criminal background check, provide a Certificate of Good Health and not owe any money to the Brazilian tax authorities.
If you meet this criteria, you will then need to invest at least BRL 500,000 (USD 98,000) into a Brazilian business or BRL 700,000 (USD 137,000) into Brazilian real estate.
You must also satisfy immigration authorities that you have the means to support yourself and your family during your stay and that none of you will become a burden on state services.
After four years of residency, you are eligible for full Brazilian citizenship. You must not be absent from the country for more than six consecutive months during this time.
Investment options
To qualify for Brazilian residency by investment via the VIPER programme, you must EITHER:
Invest at least BRL 500,000 (USD 98,000) into a Brazilian business
AND
Invest BRL 150,000 (USD 29,000) into innovative activities that stimulate the local economy and create at least ten jobs.
Any business plan must be approved by the Brazilian National Council of Immigration prior to investment. Businesses must be in good standing and still employing Brazilian nationals to be eligible for visa renewal.
OR
Invest at least BRL 700,000 (USD 137,000) into real estate in the north or northeast regions of Brazil or BRL 1m (USD 195,000) in real estate in other regions.
You must maintain your investment for as long as you wish to be a resident of Brazil.
The Application process
When you work with Knightsbridge to obtain your Permanent Residency Investor Visa, our expert team will guide you through the following five-step process:
Step 1: Due diligence and eligibility checks
Your Knightsbridge contact will check that you are eligible for the program and ensure that your documents are in order for a fast and smooth application process. This will include a review of your proof of funds, police and health checks and AML requirements.
Step 2: Investment
Once we are sure you are eligible for the VIPER programme, you should make your investment into a Brazilian business or Brazilian real estate. Once again, your Knightsbridge contact will guide you through this process.
Step 3: Residency application
At this stage, you will need to submit your residency application along with proof of your investment, proof of funds, and supporting documentation such as your health certificate and criminal record check.
Step 4: Visa stamping
Once your application is successful, your temporary residency permit will be affixed to your passport by the immigration authorities.
Step 5: Citizenship
After four years of continuous residence in Brazil, you are eligible to apply for full citizenship. While there is no formal citizenship test, you will need to demonstrate your ability to communicate in Portuguese as part of this process. Citizenship rights are also extended to your spouse, any dependent parents and children under 24.
Benefits of the Brazil Permanent Residency Investor Visa Program
As a resident of Brazil, you’ll benefit from:
International freedom
With a residency visa, you are free to travel to and from Brazil as many times as you wish without additional applications.
Family rights
All eligible family members have the right to reside, work and study in Brazil for the duration of the visa.
Business opportunities
Brazil is home to a vast, diverse and growing economy – the largest in South America with the highest GDP.
Low cost of living
The cost of living in Brazil is considerably lower than that of European, North American, or Middle Eastern countries.
Path to citizenship
You could be eligible for Brazilian citizenship after four continuous years of residency in Brazil. As a citizen, you are free to travel to 158 countries on visa-free or visa-on-arrival terms.
Why Work with Knightsbridge Group?
Navigating the complex legal landscape of residency by investment and second citizenship can be challenging, but with Knightsbridge, you have expert guidance and support every step of the way.
Our team of 30 seasoned experts, boasting over 200 years of industry experience, is dedicated to delivering comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs.
As specialists in immigration services, we help individuals and families secure residency and citizenship via strategic investments. Our team guides you through the intricate process, ensuring all necessary requirements are met while optimising your chances of success.
Our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction is paramount. We stay abreast of the latest legal and regulatory developments to offer you the most accurate and reliable advice. We believe in building long-term relationships based on trust, integrity, and professionalism.
Ready to take the next step towards greater international freedom? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experts. We look forward to assisting you.
