How long is the Digital Nomad or Retiree visa valid?
The visa is valid for 12 months (calendar year) starting from the date it is issued.
👉 Example: if you obtain it before crossing the Atlantic, the clock starts running immediately, even if you arrive in Brazil later.
Does Voiles & Visas issue the visas directly?
No. Only the Brazilian authorities (Ministry of Justice and Federal Police) are authorized to issue visas.
Our role is to guide you through the process, prepare a strong application, and have our partner lawyers submit it directly to the authorities.
What documents are required?
The documents depend on the type of visa (Digital Nomad Visa or Retiree Visa).
Typically, you will need: a valid passport, proof of stable income, a birth or marriage certificate, a criminal record certificate, all officially translated into Portuguese in Brazil if required.
Is document translation mandatory?
Yes — unless your documents are written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
All other foreign documents must be translated into Portuguese by sworn translators in Brazil.
👉 Through our partner translators, our clients benefit from preferential rates.
Do I need a CPF number to apply for my visa?
No, thanks to our partners, you do not need a CPF number to apply for your visa. However, we can help you to obtain a CPF number for your stay in Brazil.
The application is completely free and takes only a few days. You just need your passport, a temporary address in Brazil (for example, the address of a marina), and an email. You need to go to the Receita Federal, request a CPF at the office, and fill out a form. Then you will receive your CPF number by email. Unfortunately, if something goes wrong, you will need to go again to the Receita Federal to obtain your number.
Does Voiles & Visas only work with sailors?
Our services are designed primarily for sailors, families, and retirees who want to stay longer in Brazil. But we also assist digital nomads and other profiles who need a one-year visa.
Can I apply if I am already in Brazil?
Yes. In some cases, it is possible to regularize your status directly in Brazil. Our partner lawyers will then submit your application to the competent authorities.
I am retired, but my spouse never worked. Can they still get a visa?
Yes. Once the main applicant is granted a retiree visa, it is possible to apply for a family reunification visa so that your spouse can also obtain legal residency.
Do I also need to apply for my children?
Yes. Minors also need their own visa. We guide you step by step to gather the necessary documents for the whole family.
What about my boat?
In addition to your personal visas, your yacht must be declared and registered with the Brazilian authorities (Receita Federal and Capitanias dos Portos).
👉 The good news: there are no import taxes to pay for a foreign yacht under temporary admission in Brazil. We provide you with practical advice and reliable contacts to make sure your arrival and stay comply with local regulations.
How long does the process take?
On average, expect 4 to 10 weeks from preparing your file to receiving an answer from the authorities. Timelines may vary depending on the complexity of your documents and the processing speed of the authorities.
How much does Voiles & Visas support cost?
Voiles & Visas support includes numerous services such as partner lawyer fees, document translation, preparation of pre-filled forms, and personalized follow-up of your application. The detailed pricing will be provided as soon as you contact us via our form.
Do you have any other questions? Are you ready to apply for your visa?
Fill out our form and we will get back to you!