Brazilian Naturalization: How Long Can I Stay Outside Brazil?

Foreign nationals who wish to become Brazilian citizens must be careful about the amount of time they spend outside Brazil, whether for tourism or work-related travel.

As a general rule, foreign nationals who apply for ordinary naturalization must prove at least four (4) years of uninterrupted permanent residence in Brazil.

Brazil’s Migration Law establishes that, within this four-year period, the foreign national may be absent from Brazil for up to 90 days per year, and the total cumulative absences may not exceed 12 months (360 days).

Maximum Period of Absence from Brazil

Two rules must be observed:

• A maximum absence of 90 days per year;

• The total cumulative absences may not exceed 360 days (12 months).

In cases where the foreign national is married to a Brazilian citizen, the minimum required residence period is reduced to one (1) year. In such cases, absences may not exceed 90 days in total.

It is important to note that, in order to apply for naturalization, the foreign national must have already fulfilled the minimum residence requirement. This period is counted from the formal acquisition of resident status, not from the date of physical entry into Brazil.

Most Common Mistakes That Lead to Denial

• Counting the residence period from the date of entry into Brazil;

• Counting the residence period from the date of visa issuance;

• Filing the naturalization application before completing the minimum required residence period;

• Expired criminal background certificates;

• Criminal background certificates issued by the Federal Police instead of the Federal Court (Judicial Branch);

• An irregular or expired Migratory Registration Card (CRNM).

How to Avoid Denial of Brazilian Naturalization

To avoid possible denial of your naturalization application, it is highly recommended that you consult with an attorney specialized in Brazilian immigration law before formally submitting your request.

A prior legal analysis allows you to apply only when all legal requirements have been fully met, resulting in a faster and more effective naturalization process.

During our consultation, we will analyze your specific case and prepare a customized document checklist, as well as a step-by-step timeline indicating when each action should be taken—significantly increasing the likelihood that your Brazilian naturalization application will be approved.

To learn more about our services, click here.