‎Family Reunion Visa Lawyer in Minas Gerais and Espirito Santo: Legal Pathways for Family Unity

Understanding the Family Reunion Visa in Brazil

The family reunion visa in Brazil is a legal provision that allows foreign nationals to reside in the country with their close family members who are either Brazilian citizens or legal residents. In the states of Minas Gerais and Espirito Santo, the demand for this visa continues to grow as families seek to restore unity across borders.
This visa is anchored in the principle of family unity established by Brazil’s Migration Law (Law No. 13.445/2017). It grants spouses, minor or dependent children, parents, and other legally recognized dependents the right to join their family in Brazil with full residency rights.

Jurisdiction and Local Infrastructure

Minas Gerais and Espirito Santo each have their own Federal Police immigration units responsible for processing visa applications and CRNM registrations. Cities such as Belo Horizonte, Vitória, Vila Velha, Juiz de Fora, and Uberlândia have well-established infrastructure for legal filings, sworn translations, and civil documentation services.
Legal professionals in these regions offer applicants tailored assistance based on local administrative nuances, timelines, and best practices.

Eligibility and Documentation

To apply for a family reunion visa, the applicant must prove a verifiable relationship with the sponsor. This typically includes marriage certificates, birth certificates, legal guardianship orders, and, in some cases, dependency statements. All documents issued abroad must be apostilled and translated by a certified public translator registered in Brazil.
Sponsors must also submit identification, proof of legal residency or citizenship, financial means of support, and a signed statement declaring full responsibility for the incoming relative.

Application Process Step-by-Step

• 1. Collect all required documents in the applicant's home country, ensuring each is properly apostilled or legalized.
• 2. Translate documents through a Brazilian sworn translator.
• 3. Submit the application either through a Brazilian consulate (if the applicant is abroad) or directly at the local Federal Police unit (if the applicant is already in Brazil).
• 4. Await review, which may take 90 to 180 days, depending on the completeness of the application and any follow-up requests by immigration authorities.
• 5. Upon approval, register with the Federal Police, obtain a CRNM card, and initiate CPF and other civil registrations as necessary.

Legal Assistance and Strategic Guidance

Hiring a lawyer specialized in immigration and family reunion visas dramatically increases the success rate of the application. Legal experts review documentation for errors, ensure correct apostille and translation, and communicate directly with authorities to preempt issues that could delay or deny a visa.
In Minas Gerais and Espirito Santo, lawyers often handle full-cycle support: from pre-application document review to post-approval registration and integration.

Post-Approval Integration

Once in Brazil, visa holders can access healthcare, education, banking, and employment opportunities. A lawyer ensures the family member is appropriately integrated into Brazilian civic systems, including enrollment in the SUS healthcare network, CPF registration, and school placement.
Legal support is also critical for family changes, visa renewals, transitions to permanent residency, and naturalization procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who qualifies for a family reunion visa?
Spouses, children, parents, and legal dependents of Brazilian citizens or permanent residents.

2. Can I work in Brazil with this visa?
Yes. The visa permits work and grants full residency rights once registered.

3. Are same-sex spouses recognized?
Yes. Brazilian immigration law fully recognizes same-sex unions for family reunification.

4. What documents must be translated?
All foreign official documents, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, and background checks.

5. How long does it take to get the visa?
It typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the case and completeness of documents.

6. What is the CRNM?
It is the National Migration Registration Card issued after successful registration with the Federal Police.

7. Do I need to apply in Brazil?
No. You can apply abroad through a consulate or within Brazil via the Federal Police.

8. Can I bring my adopted child?
Yes. With legal proof of adoption and required documentation.

9. What happens if I divorce?
The visa may be reassessed and could be revoked depending on the situation.

10. Can I get permanent residency?
Yes. After meeting legal conditions and continuous residence requirements.

11. Is legal support required?
It is not mandatory but strongly advised to avoid delays or denials.

12. Can a minor sponsor a parent?
No. Only adult residents or citizens of Brazil can act as sponsors.

13. Is proof of income necessary?
Yes. Sponsors must show they can financially support the incoming family member.

14. Are background checks required?
Yes. From the applicant’s country of residence or citizenship.

15. Can I include multiple relatives?
Yes, but each family member must submit a separate application.

16. Will I have access to SUS healthcare?
Yes. Once registered, visa holders may access public healthcare.

17. Can I switch visa types later?
Yes. Through legal procedures and justification.

18. What if my documents expire?
You must renew them and re-submit valid, current versions.

19. Is translation in Brazil mandatory?
Yes. An official sworn translator in Brazil must translate all documents.

20. How can I get legal help?
For further information or legal assistance, please send an email to [email protected]