Brazil•South AmericaVITEM IV — Student Visa (VITEM IV - Estudante)
At a Glance
Varies
USD $100
30 days
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Temporary visa for foreign students enrolled in educational courses or academic programs in Brazil exceeding 90 days, including undergraduate, graduate, and language courses.
The VITEM IV Student Visa is a temporary visa category established under Brazil's Migration Law (Law No. 13.445/2017) and regulated by the National Immigration Council. It was created to facilitate the entry of foreign nationals seeking to pursue academic or technical education within Brazil, filling the gap for those who need to reside in the country for more than 90 days to complete their studies. By providing a structured legal pathway, it ensures that international students can access accredited Brazilian educational institutions while maintaining compliance with national immigration and security protocols.
This visa is intended for foreign nationals enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate, or technical courses at institutions recognized by the Brazilian Ministry of Education. It is also suitable for those participating in academic exchange programs or research. A distinctive feature of the VITEM IV is its requirement for proof of financial self-sufficiency and health insurance, ensuring that students can support themselves during their stay. While primarily for study, it may allow for limited, course-related internships, provided they are arranged through the educational institution.
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
BrazilVITEM VII — Work Visa - Employment Contract (VITEM V - Contrato de Trabalho / NR 02)
BrazilVITEM XI — Permanent Residence - Family-Based (Residência Permanente Familiar)
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be enrolled in a recognized Brazilian educational institution (undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, or technical).
Program must exceed 90 days in duration.
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support oneself during the stay.
Must have valid international health insurance coverage.
Must have a passport valid for at least six months.
KEY CRITERIA
Education
high_school or higher
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport (at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages).
Completed and signed visa application form (RER).
Official letter of acceptance from the Brazilian institution.
Proof of financial capability (bank statements, scholarship letter, or sponsorship).
International health insurance policy.
Criminal background check (for stays over 90 days).
Recent passport-sized photograph.
Proof of residence within the consular jurisdiction.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows for long-term study in Brazil.
- Permits multiple entries and exits during the visa validity.
- Can be extended while in Brazil if requested at least 30 days before expiration.
- Provides a pathway to integrate into the Brazilian academic and cultural environment.
Worth Knowing
- Holders are generally not allowed to engage in paid employment (unless specifically permitted by the institution/internship programs).
- Must register with the Federal Police within 90 days of arrival to avoid fines.
- Must maintain enrollment status to keep the visa valid.
- Consulates have jurisdictional requirements; you must apply where you reside.
Application Process
Obtain acceptance letter
From Brazilian educational institution
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents
Complete visa application
Fill out visa application form
Submit to consulate
Apply at Brazilian embassy or consulate
Pay visa fee
Pay application fee
Receive visa
Visa valid for study duration
Register with Federal Police
Complete registration within 30 days if staying over 30 days
Application Forms
| Student Visa Application Form | — |
Related visas
More visas in Brazil
Study visas in other countries
- Student Visa (Ryugaku)
Japan
- Student Visa (D-2)
South Korea
- Temporary Residence (Students)
Chile
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