‎Family Reunion Visa Lawyer in São Paulo: Legal Expertise for Your Family

Understanding the Family Reunion Visa

The family reunion visa allows close relatives of Brazilian citizens or permanent residents to legally reside in Brazil. São Paulo, the largest urban center in the country, processes a significant number of these visa applications annually.
This visa is essential to reuniting families separated by borders, offering not only emotional security but also legal rights to reside, study, and work in Brazil.

Legal Framework

The Migration Law (Law 13.445/2017) governs the family reunion visa. It establishes the right to family unity as a guiding principle of Brazilian immigration policy. The law is regulated by Decree No. 9.199/2017 and administrative resolutions issued by the National Immigration Department.
This legal structure ensures that sponsors—Brazilian citizens or legal residents—can petition for their close family members, including spouses, children, parents, and legal dependents.

Required Documentation

Applicants must submit a valid passport, birth or marriage certificates, proof of relationship to the sponsor, apostilled documents, and sworn translations. A criminal background certificate from the applicant’s country of origin is also mandatory.
Sponsors must provide proof of legal residency in Brazil, financial means to support the family member, and a formal declaration of responsibility.

Filing the Application in São Paulo

Applicants already in Brazil submit their applications to the Federal Police. Those abroad must file through the Brazilian consulate. In São Paulo, several Federal Police units handle immigration matters.
Lawyers often coordinate document submission, appointment scheduling, and communication with authorities to ensure deadlines are met and paperwork is in order.

Post-Approval Steps

Once approved, the visa holder must register with the Federal Police and obtain the CRNM card (Brazilian foreigner ID). This card is required to open bank accounts, register for CPF, and access healthcare and education systems.
Legal support remains essential to assist with updates, renewals, permanent residency requests, and changes in family or immigration status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for a family reunion visa in Brazil? Close relatives such as spouses, children, parents, or dependents of Brazilian citizens or legal residents.

2. Is same-sex marriage recognized for visa purposes? Yes, Brazilian immigration law recognizes same-sex unions equally.

3. Can I apply for this visa while already in Brazil? Yes, through the Federal Police in Brazil.

4. What documents are required? Valid passport, apostilled and translated proof of relationship, background checks, and financial documents.

5. Must documents be apostilled? Yes, unless the applicant's country is not a party to the Hague Convention.

6. How long does the process take? Typically between 3 and 6 months.

7. Is financial proof mandatory? Yes, the sponsor must demonstrate sufficient means to support the applicant.

8. Can I work with this visa? Yes, after Federal Police registration.

9. Is the visa renewable? Yes, and it can lead to permanent residency.

10. What if my visa is denied? You can appeal or reapply with legal help.

11. Can I sponsor multiple relatives? Yes, if each qualifies and you meet support criteria.

12. What is CRNM? The ID card for foreign residents in Brazil.

13. Can I apply through a consulate? Yes, if the applicant resides abroad.

14. Do children need separate applications? Yes, each minor must be included individually.

15. Will my criminal record affect approval? Yes, depending on the type of conviction.

16. Can a lawyer apply to me? Yes, with a valid power of attorney.

17. What if my documents have expired? You must renew and re-apostille them.

18. Can I travel while the application is pending? Only after consulting your lawyer or the Federal Police.

19. Will the visa grant access to public services? Yes, including health, education, and work rights.

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