Brazil
• South America
Overview
Brazil's digital nomad visa (VITEM XIV) launched in 2022 offers US remote workers a 1-year stay with renewal option. The income requirement is just $1,500/month OR $18,000 in savings—one of the lowest thresholds globally. Cost of living runs 40-60% below the US, with comfortable monthly budgets of $1,200-2,000. The retirement visa requires $2,000/month pension income and leads to permanent residency after 2 years, then citizenship eligibility after 4 more years. Popular expat cities include Florianópolis (safest, beach lifestyle), Curitiba (European feel), and Fortaleza (lowest costs). Note: US citizens now require an eVisa for entry as of April 2025.
Visa Options
Digital Nomad Visa (VITEM XIV)
For remote workers employed by non-Brazilian companies. Requires $1,500/month income OR $18,000 savings. Valid 1 year, renewable for 1 additional year.
Retirement Visa (VITEM XIV)
For retirees with $2,000/month pension income. 1 year initial, renewable, leads to permanent residency. Citizenship eligible after 4 years of PR.
Highlights
- ✓Digital nomad visa only $1,500/month OR $18,000 savings
- ✓Cost of living 40-60% below United States
- ✓Comfortable lifestyle on $1,200-2,000/month
- ✓Retirement visa leads to citizenship after 6 years
- ✓Florianópolis rated safest major city for expats
- ✓Rich culture, stunning beaches, vibrant cities
Considerations
- !US citizens require eVisa as of April 2025
- !183+ days triggers tax residency (7.5-25% rates)
- !Portuguese language essential—limited English
- !Safety varies by city and neighborhood
- !Bureaucracy can be slow and complex