BRAZIL - Company Address is Unacceptable for RNE Registration; Brazil and United States Extend Visa Validity; Changes to the Brazilian ID card; and Younger Athletes Now Eligible for Visas
- Brazil
- 06/22/2010
Company Address is Unacceptable for Foreign National ID Card Registration
Foreign citizens are no longer allowed to use an employer’s address rather than a residential address when registering with the Federal Police for a Foreign National ID Card (RNE). Foreign citizens may use a hotel address if they do not have a residential address at the time of registering for the RNE. Once a residential address is obtained, the foreign citizen should register a change of address with the Federal Police.
Brazil and the United States Extend Visa Validity
In May, the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the U.S. Embassy in Brazil announced a joint agreement to issue 10- year tourist and business visas to one another’s citizens. Visas issued for these purposes were previously valid only for up to five years.
Although visa application fees will still be required, both countries have eliminated additional fees that had previously been charged for business travelers, students, and exchange visitors/visiting scholars.
More information can be found at: http://www.embaixada-americana.org.br
Changes to the Brazilian National Identity Card
Starting in October 2010, the Brazilian Government will begin to issue a new ID card. To date there are 150 million ID cards, and the government intends to replace these over the next 10 years. The current cards are easily duplicated because each state adopted its own specific numbering system.
The new ID card will have ten digits and a chip containing personal data about the card holder. Furthermore, the new ID card will also have a fingerprint adapted to the AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System).
Younger Athletes Now Eligible for Visas
Foreign nationals between the ages of 14 and 21 are now eligible to apply for athletic visas for the purpose of undertaking intensive training. Previously, such visas were only issued to athletes over the age of 21. The visa application may be filed at the Brazilian consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence, and all applications must still be approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The validity of the visa is 12 months, and it may be extended if the applicant meets the requirements.
BAL Comment
As illustrated by the foregoing, Brazil’s immigration policy is constantly changing. If any of the above scenarios apply to your particular circumstances, a BAL global migration advisor will be pleased to provide further information.
