Updated October 2026 · Legal review: Isadora Rizzi, lawyer (OAB/PR 75.878)
Portuguese citizens and nationals of the other countries of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) have their own routes to live in Brazil and later naturalize. The CPLP countries are Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe and Timor-Leste.
How does CPLP residence work in Brazil?
Based on the CPLP Mobility Agreement (enacted by Decree No. 11,156/2022), Interministerial Ordinance MJSP/MRE No. 40/2023 regulated the temporary visa and residence permit for CPLP nationals. It has been in force since October 2023 and simplified the route for those who want to live in Brazil.
The application can be filed in Brazil, at the Federal Police, or abroad, through a visa at Brazilian consular posts.
Portuguese citizens: the Equality Statute
Besides residence, Portuguese citizens living in Brazil can request recognition of equal rights (and, separately, political rights), under the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Consultation between Brazil and Portugal (Decree No. 3,927/2001) and the Constitution (art. 12, § 1). Equality is not naturalization: the person remains Portuguese but gains rights equivalent to those of Brazilians, with the exceptions in the Constitution.
Naturalization after 1 year of residence
The Constitution (art. 12, II, “a”) allows nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries to naturalize with 1 uninterrupted year of residence and good moral character, much shorter than the usual 4 years. Learn more in the complete naturalization guide.
Which documents are usually requested?
- Valid passport or identity document.
- Birth or marriage certificate, when required.
- Criminal record certificates.
- Proof of residence in Brazil.
Learn about residence permits in Brazil →
Legal basis
- Federal Constitution, art. 12, II, “a”, and § 1.
- Decree No. 11,156/2022 (CPLP Mobility Agreement).
- Interministerial Ordinance MJSP/MRE No. 40/2023.
- Decree No. 3,927/2001 (Brazil–Portugal Treaty).
Frequently asked questions
Do Portuguese citizens need a visa to live in Brazil?
To live in Brazil, residence must be regularized, either through CPLP residence or another route under the Migration Law.
Are equal rights and naturalization the same thing?
No. With equal rights the Portuguese citizen keeps their nationality and gains equivalent rights; with naturalization they become Brazilian.
Can Angolan and Mozambican nationals apply for CPLP residence?
Yes, CPLP residence applies to nationals of all member countries.