Brazil Implements New Overarching Humanitarian Visa Framework Effective January 1, 2026

Brazil Restructures Humanitarian Immigration Regime

Brazil is set to implement a significant overhaul of its humanitarian immigration policies with a new interministerial ordinance, effective January 1, 2026. This new framework will establish a single, overarching legal structure for humanitarian visas and residence permits, replacing various prior country-specific programs, including those previously applicable to nationals from countries such as Afghanistan and Haiti.

Key Changes to Eligibility and Sponsorship

Under the new ordinance, the automatic listing of eligible nationalities will be discontinued. Instead, the specific countries, applicable conditions, and authorized consular posts for humanitarian visa applications will be determined through a future joint act issued by the Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE). Until this joint act is published, eligibility for new humanitarian visa applications cannot be presumed for any nationality.

A notable change in the new framework is the requirement for applicants abroad to secure sponsorship. The issuance of humanitarian visas will now be conditional on proof of hosting capacity provided by a non-governmental organization (NGO) that has a formal cooperation agreement with the Brazilian government. This measure aims to ensure a more planned, organized, and dignified reception for humanitarian immigrants upon their arrival in Brazil.

Post-Arrival Procedures and Residence

Upon entering Brazil, humanitarian visa holders will be required to register with the Federal Police within 90 days. Following registration, they may apply for a two-year temporary residence permit, which grants authorization for both residence and employment within the country. Subsequently, holders will have the option to apply for indefinite residence, provided they meet standard requirements, including limits on absences from Brazil, lawful entry and exit, a clean criminal record both in Brazil and abroad, and proof of sufficient financial means.

Government fees for principal applicants and their dependents will continue to be waived under the new system. Furthermore, a crucial transitional provision has been included to protect individuals covered by the revoked ordinances who were already present in Brazil as of December 31, 2025. These individuals will be permitted to apply for humanitarian residence irrespective of their current immigration status.

Context and Objectives

Brazil has historically offered humanitarian visas to individuals fleeing crises, with programs established for Haitians following the 2010 earthquake, Syrians due to conflict, and more recently for Afghans and Ukrainians. The shift to a unified framework aims to streamline these processes and address challenges such as ensuring adequate support and preventing precarious living conditions for new arrivals. The new system is designed to provide safer and more dignified conditions by coordinating support organizations in advance.