Study in Brazil: Student Visas & Permits

If you want to study in Brazil, then you’ll need a visa. If you hold citizenship of another South American country, with the exceptions of Guyana and Suriname, you can enter Brazil using only a national ID card and also skip a lot of the visa process. However, as most international students in Brazil aren’t from elsewhere in South America, this section will focus on the general visa requirements. 

If you’re staying in Brazil for less than 90 days, say to study Portuguese, then you don’t need a visa. You can simply enter as a tourist. 

If you’re planning to stay for longer, than you’ll need the following documents:

• Your passport
• Two passport-sized photos
• Proof of enrolment
• Proof of residency if you’re applying from a country that’s not your home country
• Receipt for the $180 visa fee which must be paid as the application is made
• A police certificate issued by the force in your country of residence

All of these documents will need to be processed in-person at your nearest Brazilian embassy, consulate or visa center. If you’re already in Brazil, you can apply to change your status in-country. You’ll still need to submit the above documents. You can apply by using this form and then visiting your nearest immigration center. In-country applications cost 204BRL ($40USD). 

Once issued, student visas are valid for the entire duration of your studies. They are also multiple entry, allowing you to enter and exit the country for trips or to visit home. 

Remember, you can’t work in Brazil on any kind of study visa, so you’ll need to make sure that you have enough money to cover you for the duration of your intended stay.