The Immigration Council in 2022 approved the Digital Nomad VITEM XIV project for professionals working remotely. The program is available to employees, freelancers, self-employed individuals, and entrepreneurs. It allows you to change your residence for one year and, if desired, extend it for up to three years.
Expats submit an application to the Ministry of Justice through the MigranteWeb system – a platform for foreign specialists – by filling out an electronic form.
Specifics of Brazil’s Freelance Visa
The country is increasingly appearing on immigration shortlists compiled by digital nomads. They are attracted by the affordable cost of living and the relatively simple process of obtaining a VITEM XIV visa. The program is designed to attract foreign investment and intellectual resources to help digitize the country and develop its economy.
Upon arrival, nomads receive a residence permit. This is a national CRNM card for migration registration, equivalent to an identity card. After registering with the police department, it grants foreigners access to bank accounts, fund transfers, and social rights.
Program participants may include programmers, testers, web designers, and full-time employees of companies that use digital information technologies in their work. It is also suitable for foreign business owners controlling work processes remotely. Entrepreneurs providing contractor services can also qualify. Participation conditions in 2024:
- specialists should not be on the staff of a Brazilian company;
- should not provide single or package services under client contracts within the territory;
- should receive income from foreign employers of at least $1,500 or have a deposit of $18,000.
What Taxes Does a Freelancer Pay
After six months, foreigners receive CPF tax identifiers and pay taxes on par with Brazilians, including on worldwide income. The law does not apply to profits from assets acquired before obtaining tax status. There are no tax benefits for digital nomads in the country. Amounts over $900 are taxed at a rate of 27.5%.
How Much Does the Visa Cost
The price depends on the country where the documents are submitted. The fee for processing an application at Brazilian consulates is $300, and the service fee is $50. The consular department sends payment information by email only after reviewing the dossier. Funds are credited to the embassy’s account through bank cards. Document translation, apostille, medical insurance, and a police clearance certificate are paid separately.
It is sometimes not easy to understand all the bureaucratic intricacies on your own, but our experts are always ready to review your case and help you on your way to a comfortable life.
Required Documents
Originals and copies in Portuguese or the language of the country where the diplomatic mission is located are accepted for review. Requirements for the dossier:
- a passport with blank pages for visa insertion;
- passport-size photo;
- a declaration in the field of information and digital technologies;
- a contract and written consent from the employer;
- a declaration of a salary of $1,500 or a balance of $18,000;
- proof of fee payments;
- a police clearance certificate.
Self-employed individuals or sole proprietors must provide a contract for entrepreneurial activities, offering services to foreign companies. When relocating with family, relocators add documents to confirm relationships in the dossier. The requirement for medical insurance depends on the country of document submission. It is only required when obtaining a nomad visa in the country of residence.
Recent Changes in Brazil’s Visa Policy
After final bilateral agreements with Japan, citizens retain visa-free entry. The country has also adjusted its migration policy for tourist visas and restored previous requirements for three countries.
Starting from 2025, residents of the USA, Canada, and Australia will be required to apply for electronic visas, costing $81, 15 days before the intended trip. During border control, tourists must have 2 printed copies. The electronic visa will be valid for 10 years. A guide for submitting an application has been published on the government’s website.
