fbpx
The image shows a cheerful, smiling, multi-ethnic couple embracing in their living room. It illustrates the text about Brazil residence permit.

Foreign investor in Brazil /

Eduardo Koetz Eduardo Koetz

30 de may de 2025

Brazil Residence Permit by Buying Property by Countries

In recent years, Brazil has emerged as an increasingly attractive destination for international investors and expatriates seeking not only financial returns but also opportunities for legal residency through property ownership. Similar to Golden Visa programs offered by countries such as Portugal, Spain, and Greece, Brazil allows foreign nationals to secure a residence permit in Brazil by purchasing real estate that meets certain financial thresholds.

With a booming property market in key urban centers, beach resorts, and agribusiness regions, Brazil presents a unique combination of affordable property values, a high quality of life, and a straightforward legal process for property acquisition by foreigners. In this guide, we’ll explain how international buyers can obtain a residence permit in Brazil by buying property, what requirements apply, and how this opportunity compares to other countries offering similar pathways.

If you need legal assistance from our team, please message us on WhatsApp.

Can I Get Residency in Brazil if I Buy a Property?

Foreign nationals can obtain a Brazilian residence permit through real estate investment. This option, officially recognized by the Brazilian government, allows non-residents to apply for permanent residency if they purchase property in Brazil with a minimum investment value.

The program was formalized in Normative Resolution No. 36/2018 of the National Immigration Council, which regulates the granting of permanent visas to foreigners investing in Brazilian real estate. The property must meet a minimum value requirement and be located in an urban area. Additionally, the funds used for the purchase must be transferred from abroad via authorized financial institutions, duly registered with the Central Bank of Brazil.

Once approved, the investor receives a permanent residence permit, granting the right to live and work in Brazil. After four years of continuous residency, the foreign national becomes eligible to apply for Brazilian citizenship.

How to Get Brazilian Citizenship by Investment?

Although Brazil does not offer direct citizenship through investment (as some Caribbean nations do), it provides a clear path from permanent residency to naturalized citizenship.

The process works as follows:

  1. Obtain Permanent Residency: Through qualified investments such as real estate purchases meeting the minimum value, or by investing in a Brazilian company or strategic sectors;
  2. Maintain Residency for Four Years: The residence permit holder must reside in Brazil for at least four consecutive years. This period can be reduced to one year in specific cases, such as marriage to a Brazilian citizen or having a Brazilian child;
  3. Apply for Naturalization: After fulfilling the residency requirement, the applicant can file for Brazilian citizenship. Additional criteria include:
    • Proof of good conduct (criminal background check);
    • Adequate command of the Portuguese language;
    • Evidence of financial means or employment in Brazil.

This makes Brazil an attractive option for those seeking long-term residency leading to a second citizenship, especially when compared to countries where permanent residence does not automatically lead to citizenship.

Text continues after infographic.

The image shows an infographic about Types of Foreign Investment in Brazil. Section 1: Direct Investment Foreign companies invest in a company or create their operation in Brazil, and may acquire a majority or minority stake. Section 2: Investment by Credit (Mutual) Investors “lend” money to Brazilian companies at interest. In general, this investment will later become direct, but it is done initially to avoid risks before validating the investment. Section 3: Investing in Stocks and Bonds Investments in Brazilian companies' shares or Brazilian Government bonds through financial brokerages. Section 4: Investment Funds Investments in funds managed by management companies, invested in Brazilian companies or assets. Section 5: Real Estate Investment Acquisition of real estate in Brazil, such as houses, apartments, or land, for construction, housing, resale or rental.

What Does a Foreigner Need to Buy a Property in Brazil?

The process for a foreigner to purchase property in Brazil is relatively straightforward and does not require residency. However, certain legal requirements must be met:

  • Tax Registration Number (CPF): All property buyers, whether Brazilian or foreign, must obtain a Cadastro de Pessoa Física (CPF) — a tax identification number issued by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service;
  • Valid Passport: A current and valid passport is necessary for identification;
  • Foreign Exchange Registration: The funds for purchasing the property must be sent from abroad via authorized financial institutions and properly registered with the Brazilian Central Bank (RDE-IED or RDE-ROF systems, depending on the type of investment).
  • Property Deed Registration: The property purchase must be officially registered with the Real Estate Registry Office (Cartório de Registro de Imóveis).

In addition, if applying for a residence permit through this investment, the applicant must present proof of the property’s purchase value, payment documents, and compliance with the minimum investment threshold.

Other Information for Immigrants Who Buy Property May Have a Brazilian Residence Permit

It’s important to note that:

  • The property must be located in an urban area. Agricultural or rural land purchases do not qualify for residence permits;
  • The residence permit initially grants permanent residency. There’s no provisional status for this visa category;
  • Immediate family members (spouse and dependent children) can be included in the residency application;
  • The property can be residential, commercial, or a combination of both.

The residence permit holder is not required to live in the property but must maintain ownership during the initial residence period.

Text continues after infographic.

The image shows an infographic on how foreigners can invest in real estate in Brazil. Understand the opportunities, rules and advantages of buying houses and land in the country! Can foreigners buy real estate in Brazil? Yes! Brazilian law allows foreigners to buy houses, apartments and land, even without residency in the country. However, some restrictions exist, especially in rural and border areas. What is required to invest? Have a CPF (even as a non-resident); Choose a regularized urban property; In some cases, have a proxy; Send the money via an authorized bank (official exchange); Register the property at the real estate registry office. What are the costs and taxes involved? ITBI (Transfer Tax); Public deed and registration at the registry office; Income Tax on capital gains (in case of future resale); Maintenance costs and condominium fees (if applicable). What are the advantages of real estate investment in Brazil? Properties with good potential for appreciation, especially in tourist regions; Good conditions for purchasing land; Possibility of generating income from rentals. Section 5: Get professional support A legal expert can guide you through the analysis of the property. Avoid fraud and achieve security in your investment!

What is the Price of the Property to Obtain a Residence Permit in Brazil?

The minimum investment thresholds for securing a Brazilian residence permit through property purchase in Brazil vary by location:

  • R$700,000 BRL (approx. USD 140,000): For properties located in municipalities with a Human Development Index (HDI) below the national average;
  • R$1 million BRL (approx. USD 200,000): For properties in municipalities with an HDI equal to or above the national average — this includes major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília.

These values apply per investor. Joint ownership by multiple foreign investors in a single property is possible, provided each individual meets the minimum investment requirement in proportion to their ownership share.

Can a Foreigner Finance Property in Brazil?

Foreigners can finance property in Brazil, although mortgage options are typically limited compared to those available to Brazilian citizens. Some private banks and financial institutions offer real estate financing to non-residents, subject to:

  • Proof of income and financial capacity;
  • Credit analysis and risk assessment;
  • Larger down payments, often 30% to 50% of the property value;
  • Higher interest rates for foreign nationals than for residents;

However, it’s important to highlight that financed property purchases do not qualify for the residence permit program, as the law requires that the total qualifying investment be made with funds transferred from abroad. The property must be fully paid in the name of the foreign buyer to meet the immigration requirements.

Which Country Gives Citizenship After Buying Property?

Globally, several countries offer citizenship or permanent residency programs linked to real estate investments, including:

  • Portugal: Through the Golden Visa program, property investments starting at €280,000 in low-density regions can lead to residency and, after five years, citizenship;
  • Greece: Grants residency permits for property purchases of at least €250,000, with eligibility for citizenship after seven years of residence;
  • Spain: Offers a Golden Visa for real estate investments starting at €500,000, allowing for eventual citizenship after ten years of residence;
  • Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Antigua & Barbuda: Caribbean nations offering direct citizenship through property investments ranging from USD 200,000 to USD 400,000.

Brazil, while not offering direct citizenship upon investment, provides a transparent, permanent residency route leading to citizenship after a qualifying residence period — with more affordable real estate investment thresholds than many European programs.

Conclusion

For foreign nationals seeking to diversify their international real estate portfolio while securing long-term residency options, Brazil presents a compelling opportunity to a Brazilian residence permit. It’s residence permit program through property purchase offers:

  • Permanent residency from the outset;
  • Affordable investment thresholds compared to Europe or the Caribbean;
  • A clear and attainable path to Brazilian citizenship;
  • Access to one of the world’s most diverse economies and natural landscapes.

With minimal restrictions on property ownership, relatively straightforward legal procedures, and a real estate market poised for growth, Brazil has become a favored destination for investors, retirees, and expatriates worldwide.

Before proceeding, it’s advisable to consult an experienced international immigration attorney to guide the legal procedures, ensure regulatory compliance, and facilitate the residence permit application process.

If you need legal assistance from our team, please message us on WhatsApp.

Posts Relacionados:

Eduardo Koetz

Saiba mais

Compartilhar:

The image shows a group of investors in an office environment, shaking hands. It illustrates the text about Brazil citizenship by investment.
Anterior

Brazil Citizenship by Investment: What Is It & How Does It Work?

Próximo

Staying in Brazil by Buying Property: Is It Possible?

The image shows a couple with their young son on the porch of their house. The three of them smile and look at the camera. It illustrates the text about staying in Brazil by buying property.

Leave a Reply

O seu endereço de e-mail não será publicado. Campos obrigatórios são marcados com *

Ainda não há nenhum comentário.