Brazil•South AmericaRN 06/2017 — Work Visa - Vessel & Platform Crew (VITEM V - Embarcações e Plataformas / NR 06)
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 work visa for crew members working on foreign vessels or offshore platforms in Brazilian waters.
The VITEM V visa for vessel and platform crew members is regulated by Normative Resolution No. 06/2017, which serves as the legal instrument for managing foreign maritime labor in Brazil's offshore and cabotage sectors. This visa addresses the need for specialized foreign personnel to work on foreign-owned vessels or offshore platforms operating in Brazilian waters under charter, service, or risk contracts with Brazilian entities. By establishing this specific category, Brazil ensures that essential offshore operations can be staffed by international experts while maintaining clear regulatory oversight and compliance with national immigration standards.
This visa is designed for professionals working on offshore oil and gas platforms, supply vessels, or other specialized maritime units. It is specifically for those who do not have a formal employment contract with a Brazilian company, meaning their employment relationship remains with a foreign entity. The visa is ideal for engineers, drillers, and specialized technicians required for complex offshore projects. Like other VITEM V categories, it requires the applicant to hold comprehensive health insurance and is subject to prior approval by the Brazilian Ministry of Justice and Public Security.
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
BrazilVITEM XI — Permanent Residence - Family-Based (Residência Permanente Familiar)
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be a crew member of a foreign vessel or platform operating in Brazilian jurisdictional waters.
Must be working under a charter, service, or risk contract entered into with a Brazilian company.
For stays exceeding 90 days, a residence permit must be approved by the Brazilian Ministry of Justice and Public Security prior to the visa application.
Must hold a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity and two blank pages.
Must not have an employment relationship with a Brazilian entity (unless specifically authorized).
Must register with the Federal Police within 90 days of arrival.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, 2 blank pages).
Visa application form receipt (RER) signed by the applicant.
Recent passport-sized photograph.
Proof of residence permit authorization from the Ministry of Justice and Public Security.
Employment contract or service agreement between the foreign and Brazilian entities.
Criminal record certificate (apostilled or legalized).
Birth certificate (apostilled or legalized).
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows for legal, long-term work on foreign-flagged vessels or platforms in Brazil.
- Provides a clear legal framework for offshore professionals.
- Facilitates residency for the duration of the offshore contract.
Worth Knowing
- The process is heavily dependent on the sponsoring company in Brazil.
- Strict compliance with maritime labor regulations (e.g., NR 06) is required.
- Failure to register with the Federal Police within 90 days can lead to fines or legal issues.
- Visa fees and processing times can vary by jurisdiction.
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 | — |
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