Brazilian nationality law defines who can obtain Brazil citizenship. The primary law governing nationality is the 1988 Constitution of Brazil, which came into effect on October 5, 1988.
In most cases, people born in Brazil automatically get citizenship at birth (jus soli). Foreign nationals can apply for naturalization after meeting residency requirements (usually 4 years), showing proficiency in Portuguese and good character.
How to Become a Brazilian Citizen
Birth
- Anyone born in Brazil, no matter the parents’ nationality.
Descent
- Anyone born abroad to a Brazilian parent working for the Brazilian government (diplomacy or military).
- Anyone born abroad to a Brazilian parent (jus sanguinis), provided the child is registered at a Brazilian consulate or later chooses Brazilian citizenship after turning 18.
From 1994 to 2007, consular registration alone did not grant nationality. However, a constitutional amendment in September 2007 reinstated this as a way to get Brazil citizenship.
Naturalization
- Foreign nationals can apply for naturalization after four years of residence in Brazil.
- The residency requirement is one year for those married to a Brazilian citizen or those with a Brazilian child.
- Applicants must show Portuguese proficiency and good moral character.
Additional requirements
- Applicants must show ties to Brazil and knowledge of its culture and history.
- Required documents include:
- Criminal record certificate
- CELPE-BRAS certificate
- Educational diplomas
- Registro Nacional de Estrangeiros (RNE)
Brazil Dual Citizenship
The 1988 Constitution originally stated that Brazilians who voluntarily naturalized in another country would lose their Brazilian citizenship. However, a 1994 constitutional amendment changed this rule and allowed dual citizenship in cases where foreign citizenship was acquired by birth or was necessary for residency or civil rights.
Since October 2023, Brazil has had no restrictions on dual citizenship, allowing Brazilians to naturalize in other countries or foreign nationals to obtain Brazil citizenship as a second nationality.
Rights and Obligations
Military service
- Male Brazilian citizens must register for 12 months of military service, although there are exemptions for those with disqualifying conditions or when there are enough volunteers.
- Men aged 18 to 45 must show proof of military registration when applying for a Brazilian passport.
Voting
- Voting is allowed from 16 and is compulsory for literate citizens between 18 and 70, except conscripts in military service.* Not voting without justification will result in a fine of BRL 3.51 but can go up to BRL 35.13.
- Proof of voting is required when applying for a Brazilian passport.
Naturalized citizens
- Certain positions, such as President and vice President, members of the Supreme Federal Court, and high-ranking military officials, are limited to Brazilian-born citizens.
- Naturalized citizens can be extradited for crimes committed before naturalization or for drug trafficking crimes committed at any time.
- Those who commit fraudulent naturalization or acts against Brazil’s constitutional order will lose their citizenship.
- Journalism and broadcasting companies must be owned or managed by native-born citizens or those naturalized for at least ten years.
Despite these restrictions, many naturalized citizens have held political offices such as mayors, legislators, and state governors. Some have even been appointed to the Superior Court of Justice and various ministries.
Portuguese Citizens and Special Rights
Under the Equality Statute (Estatuto da Igualdade) between Brazil and Portugal, Portuguese nationals who reside in Brazil permanently may apply for equal civil rights. After three years of residency, they may also get political rights, including voting and running for office.
However, participating in Brazilian politics under this treaty will result in the suspension of equivalent rights in Portugal, but Portuguese nationality remains unaffected.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Brazilian Citizenship and Naturalizing
How do I get permanent residency in Brazil?
You can get permanent residency in Brazil to qualify for naturalization after four years by investing in the Brazil Investor Visa. You can also apply for a retirement visa to legally live in Brazil for four years.
How long do you have to live in Brazil to get a passport?
Foreign nationals must live continuously in Brazil for four years to naturalize and apply for a Brazilian passport.
What is the fastest way to get Brazilian citizenship?
The fastest way to become a Brazilian citizen is through marriage to a Brazilian national, which requires one year of marriage and a permanent residence permit.
Does Brazil allow dual citizenship with the UK?
Since both Brazil and the UK recognize dual citizenship. British citizens can get Brazilian dual citizenship and vice versa.
Am I Latino if I'm Brazilian?
By definition, Brazilians are Latinos; however, North American law typically uses “Latino” when referring to individuals of Hispanic origin.
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