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Residence & citizenship

Brazilian Brazilian Naturalisation (Citizenship)

The route by which a foreign national who has resided in Brazil for the required period can acquire Brazilian nationality.

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Under review — check current rules

Residence periods and conditions summarise the Migration Law/consular pages; confirm the exact current thresholds and any exceptions (e.g. spouse/child of a Brazilian, service rendered to Brazil) against official sources before publishing.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Brazil government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Naturalização (Brazilian Naturalisation)
Route type
Naturalisation / citizenship
Ordinary residence period
At least 4 years of uninterrupted residence immediately before applying
Extraordinary route
At least 15 years of uninterrupted residence, with no criminal conviction (or proof of rehabilitation)
Portuguese-speaking nationals
Reduced to 1 uninterrupted year of residence plus good standing
Authority
Ministry of Justice and Public Security / Polícia Federal

Who it is for

  • Foreign residents who have completed the required period of residence in Brazil
  • Nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries meeting the shorter residence rule
  • Long-term residents applying under the extraordinary route

Requirements

  • Legal capacity according to Brazilian law
  • Uninterrupted residence for the required period (4 years ordinary; 15 years extraordinary; 1 year for Portuguese-speaking nationals)
  • Absences abroad not exceeding the limit that would break continuity (ordinary route)
  • No disqualifying criminal conviction (or proof of rehabilitation)

How to apply

Applications are made to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, with the Federal Police handling procedures; requirements and documents depend on the naturalisation type. Consular pages and the Federal Police provide the detailed document lists.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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