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title: "Americans Moving to Brazil: Complete 2026 Guide"
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og_title: "Americans Moving to Brazil: Complete 2026 Guide"
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---
Last reviewed: July 14, 2026

# Americans Moving to Brazil: The Complete 2026 Guide

Every visa pathway, tax obligation, cost comparison, neighborhood and roadmap an American needs to relocate to Brazil. Written by an OAB-licensed Brazilian immigration lawyer for US citizens, in 2026.

## Quick Answer

Americans can legally move to Brazil under the **VITEM XIV Digital Nomad Visa** (requires **$1,500/month foreign income**, valid 1 year renewable to 2), the family reunion visa, retirement visa, or investor visa. Expect **$5,000-$10,000** in upfront costs and **$1,500-$3,500/month** living expenses depending on the city. Top cities for Americans: **Florianópolis**, **Rio Zona Sul**, **São Paulo**, and **Recife**. US citizens still owe US taxes worldwide but offset most of it with FEIE ($132,900 exclusion) and the Foreign Tax Credit. Retirees qualify separately with about **$2,000/month in pension income**, and Brazil's 2022 census counted roughly 70,000 North American-born residents overall.

![Camila Araujo Mota - Brazilian Immigration Lawyer](https://getbrazilvisa.com/assets/camila-headshot-BJfahbXt.webp)

Written by Camila Araujo Mota

OAB-Licensed Immigration Lawyer · [OAB/CE 50.065](https://cna.oab.org.br/) · VITEM XIV Specialist · Reviewed by Hassan Yassine, Co-Founder

Latest dataJune 2026: **49 digital nomad visa approvals** published in Brazil's official gazette. [See the live tracker →](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-digital-nomad-visa-statistics)

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## Quick Answer: Americans Moving to Brazil in 2026

Americans can legally move to Brazil through several visa categories. The most popular for remote workers, freelancers, and self-employed Americans is the [VITEM XIV Digital Nomad Visa](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-digital-nomad-visa), created under Brazil's Resolution CNIg 45/2021. It requires $1,500/month in foreign-source income (or $18,000 in savings), is valid for 1 year, and is renewable for 1 additional year for a total of 2 years of legal Brazilian residence.

Other lawful pathways include the family reunion visa (for Americans with a Brazilian spouse, child, or parent), the retirement visa (VITEM XIV is often easier than the retirement route, but the retirement category exists for those with $2,000+/month in pension income), the investor visa (VIPER, requires R$500,000-R$1,000,000 investment), and the work visa (VITEM V, requires a Brazilian employer to sponsor).

The cost-of-living arbitrage is the headline draw. A $5,000/month US remote-work salary that supports a modest one-bedroom in Austin or Brooklyn buys a spacious two-bedroom in Rio's Zona Sul, weekly massages, daily açaí, and personal training, with savings left over. Add a US-aligned time zone (1-2 hours ahead of New York, depending on US daylight saving), year-round warm weather, beaches, and a tax framework that is workable for US citizens, and Brazil has become one of the most-discussed relocation destinations for American remote workers in 2025-2026.

This umbrella guide covers everything: visas, taxes, cost comparisons against Miami, NYC, San Francisco, Boston and Austin, the best cities for Americans, healthcare systems, banking with US and Brazilian accounts, bringing your spouse, children and pets, housing, internet, Portuguese, common mistakes, and a 6-month relocation roadmap. Each major topic links to a dedicated deep-dive page when you are ready to go further.

### Considering a move to Brazil? Talk to Camila first

Camila Araujo Mota is an OAB-licensed Brazilian immigration lawyer. She has personally guided hundreds of Americans through Brazilian residency. Free consultation.

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## Why Brazil? Why Now?

Brazil has become the most-discussed Latin American destination for American remote workers in 2025-2026, overtaking Mexico City and Medellín in dedicated digital-nomad communities. Four forces converged: the launch of the VITEM XIV Digital Nomad Visa in 2022, the saturation and visa-tightening of Mexico's resident visa, a sustained strong US dollar against the real, and a wave of American remote workers exiting expensive coastal US cities.

### Time-zone advantage

Brazil sits 1-2 hours ahead of the US East Coast, depending on US daylight saving (Brazil itself has not observed daylight saving since 2019). This is meaningfully better than Lisbon (5 hours ahead), Bali (12 hours offset), or Cape Town (6 hours ahead). An American working New York hours from Rio takes their first call at 10am local and finishes their last call by 6pm, while a Lisbon-based remote worker is online until 10pm.

### Cost-of-living arbitrage

Numbeo's mid-2026 cost-of-living indexes place São Paulo at roughly 42% of New York's cost of living (excluding rent), Rio at approximately 37%, and Florianópolis at around 38%. Including rent, all three cities run closer to 27-30% of NYC's cost, since rent runs 80%+ cheaper across the board. For Americans earning a US tech, finance, or remote salary, the effective real income increase from relocating is meaningful even before accounting for the tax arbitrage.

### Lifestyle and geography

Brazil is the world's 5th largest country. You can choose from cosmopolitan São Paulo (12 million, the largest city in the Southern Hemisphere), beach-and-mountain Rio (6.7 million), the safe and surf-oriented island city of Florianópolis (nearly 590,000 in the city per 2025 IBGE estimates, one of Brazil's fastest-growing state capitals, much smaller feel), the Northeast colonial coast (Recife, Salvador, Fortaleza), or the wellness-and-jungle vibe of cities like Belo Horizonte and Curitiba.

Brazil's Federal Police RNM data on US nationals

Brazil's Federal Police (Polícia Federal) issues RNM and CRNM residence cards to a growing number of US citizens each year, driven largely by VITEM XIV uptake since 2022.

### Timing your move around Carnival

If you are still choosing when to make the move, Carnival is worth building into your timeline. Arriving in January or February means experiencing Carnival within weeks of landing, a strong first impression of the country. The tradeoff: Rio rental prices and short-term listing rates spike hard around Carnival week, so if you are apartment hunting rather than just visiting, it is usually cheaper to sign a lease before or well after the festival rather than during it. See our full [Brazil Carnival 2027 guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-carnival-2027-digital-nomad-guide) for confirmed dates, the eVisa requirement, and cost breakdowns.

### English fluency and global integration

English fluency in Brazil is concentrated in tech, finance, hospitality, and international neighborhoods. In Pinheiros (São Paulo) and Ipanema (Rio), English-speaking expat ecosystems are well established. Outside these zones, basic Portuguese accelerates daily life. Brazil is also more global than its reputation suggests. São Paulo has the largest Japanese diaspora outside Japan and significant Lebanese, Italian, German, and Korean communities.

## Visa Options for US Citizens Moving to Brazil

Brazil offers more than a dozen visa categories. Five are relevant to most Americans. Each is summarized below with a link to a dedicated deep-dive page.

### VITEM XIV Digital Nomad Visa

Duration: 1 year + 1 year renewal (2 years max) · Best for: Remote employees, freelancers, business owners with foreign income

The flagship pathway for Americans in 2026. Created under Brazilian Resolution CNIg 45/2021. Requires $1,500/month in foreign-source income or $18,000 in savings, an apostilled FBI background check, international health insurance ($30,000+ coverage), and proof of remote work or foreign business, the full [Brazil digital nomad visa requirements](https://getbrazilvisa.com/requirements-digital-nomad-visa-brazil). Approval rate is high when documents are complete. Government fees and document costs total roughly $500-$700. Apply at a Brazilian consulate in the US, or enter on a tourist eVisa and apply from within Brazil via MigranteWeb.

[Brazil digital nomad visa (VITEM XIV) guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-digital-nomad-visa)

### Tourist eVisa

Duration: 90 days, extendable to 180 days · Best for: Initial scouting, short stays, pre-relocation visits

As of April 10, 2025, all US citizens need an electronic visa (eVisa) to enter Brazil. It costs $81 USD and authorizes up to 90 days of tourism, extendable in-country by another 90 days for a maximum of 180 days within any 12-month period. The eVisa does NOT authorize remote work, residence, or employment of any kind. For relocation, use the eVisa for your scouting trip, then apply for VITEM XIV.

[Read the full guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-evisa-vs-digital-nomad-visa-for-us-citizens)

### VITEM V Work Visa

Duration: 2 years, renewable · Best for: Americans hired by a Brazilian company

Required if you will be employed by a Brazilian-registered company. Your Brazilian employer must sponsor the application via Brazil's Ministry of Justice. This is rarely the right route for Americans. Most who consider it actually qualify for VITEM XIV and can keep their US employer. The work visa makes sense if you are joining a Brazilian-headquartered company in a role that requires Brazilian payroll.

[Read the full guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/can-i-work-remotely-from-brazil-for-us-company)

### Family Reunion Visa (VITEM XI)

Duration: 2 years, then permanent · Best for: Americans with a Brazilian spouse, partner, child, or parent

If you are married to or in a stable union with a Brazilian citizen, or are the parent of a Brazilian child, you qualify for family reunion residency. The path is faster than VITEM XIV and leads to permanent residency after 2 years. Requires a marriage certificate or stable union declaration (união estável), apostilled and translated. Same-sex marriages are recognized.

[Read the full guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-digital-nomad-visa-couples)

### Investor Visa (VIPER)

Duration: Permanent (business route) or 2 years renewable then permanent (real estate route) · Best for: Americans with R$500,000+ to invest in a Brazilian business or property

Two main subtypes with different residency mechanics. Business investment (typically R$500,000+, around US$100,000 at 2026 exchange rates, or R$150,000 for qualifying innovative or research startups) typically grants permanent residency immediately upon approval, subject to the business plan's job creation or economic benefit conditions being met over time. Real estate investment (R$1,000,000+ in South, Southeast, or Central West states, or R$700,000+ in North or Northeast states) is issued as a 2 year temporary residence first, convertible to permanent status if the investment is maintained. Requires a business plan or property documentation, source-of-funds proof, and ongoing demonstration that the investment is active. Slower and more expensive than VITEM XIV. Only worth it if you are genuinely investing in Brazil.

### Retirement Visa (Retiree Residency)

Duration: About 2 years, renewable, path to permanent residence · Best for: Retirees living on a US pension, Social Security, VA benefits, or annuity

Built for foreign pensioners under CNIg RN 40/2019. You show a transferable retirement income of about $2,000/month from abroad, which a guaranteed government or military pension, VA benefits, or Social Security covers cleanly. It is the natural fit for retirees whose income is a pension rather than remote work. See the full [Brazil retirement visa](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-retirement-visa) guide for the income test, documents, and how it compares to VITEM XIV.

[Brazil retirement visa guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-retirement-visa)

For most Americans moving to Brazil today, VITEM XIV is the right answer. It is faster, cheaper, lower-risk, and explicitly designed for your situation. Read the full guide: [Brazil Digital Nomad Visa (VITEM XIV) Complete Guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-digital-nomad-visa).

Which visa for you?

Working remotely for a US employer or US clients? Use [VITEM XIV](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-digital-nomad-visa). Married to a Brazilian? Use the family reunion visa. Investing R$500,000+? Use VIPER. Brazilian company hiring you? Use VITEM V. Just visiting first? Use the [eVisa](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-evisa-vs-digital-nomad-visa-for-us-citizens).

Not sure which visa fits your situation? Camila can help

Lawyer document review from **$250**, full service from **$599**. Camila, our OAB-licensed immigration lawyer, personally handles your case.

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## The Tax Situation for Americans in Brazil

US citizens are taxed on worldwide income regardless of where they live. This rule is unique to the United States and Eritrea. Moving to Brazil does not eliminate your US tax filing requirement, but with proper planning, most Americans pay little to no additional tax thanks to the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC).

### Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE)

The FEIE allows qualifying US citizens abroad to exclude up to $132,900 of foreign-earned income from US federal income tax in tax year 2026 (the figure is indexed annually for inflation, up from $130,000 in 2025). To qualify, you must meet either the Physical Presence Test (330 full days outside the US in any consecutive 12-month period) or the Bona Fide Residence Test (residence in a foreign country for an entire tax year with intent to stay).

### Foreign Tax Credit (FTC)

If you pay Brazilian income tax, the FTC lets you offset your US tax bill dollar-for-dollar with Brazilian tax paid. The FEIE and FTC can be combined. Use the FEIE for the first $132,900 and the FTC for income above that. Self-employed Americans still owe US self-employment tax (15.3% Social Security + Medicare) even when using the FEIE, unless there is a totalization agreement (the US-Brazil totalization agreement entered into force in 2018) and you have filed for a Certificate of Coverage.

### The 183-day Brazilian tax residency rule

You become a Brazilian tax resident when you (a) hold a permanent visa, (b) hold a temporary visa with a Brazilian employment contract, or (c) physically stay in Brazil for more than 183 days in any 12-month period. As a Brazilian tax resident, your worldwide income becomes taxable in Brazil. Brazilian income tax is progressive, with a top federal rate of 27.5%.

Under the 2026 reform (Law 15.270/2025), monthly income up to R$5,000 is effectively exempt from Brazilian income tax, with partial relief extending up to R$7,350/month. The top ordinary rate stays 27.5%; a separate new minimum tax applies only to annual income above R$600,000. This matters once you cross the 183-day threshold and your worldwide income becomes taxable in Brazil.

### State taxes

Most US states do not tax residents who genuinely move abroad, but some, including California, New Mexico, South Carolina, and Virginia, are sticky and may continue to assert tax residency until you formally break ties. Establishing domicile in a no-income-tax state (Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Nevada, Washington, Wyoming, South Dakota, Alaska) before moving abroad eliminates most state-tax friction.

### FBAR and FATCA

US citizens with $10,000+ aggregate in foreign financial accounts at any point in the tax year must file FinCEN Form 114 (the FBAR). Separately, FATCA Form 8938 may be required at higher thresholds. Penalties for non-filing are severe: willful violations can run $100,000 or 50% of the account balance per year. File even if late; the Streamlined Filing Compliance Procedures forgive most penalties for non-willful past omissions.

This is general information, not tax advice

Tax planning around an international move is highly individual. Engage a CPA who specializes in US expat taxation before you depart. Common combinations: a US-based expat CPA plus a Brazilian contador for local matters once you cross the 183-day threshold.

## Cost of Living in Brazil vs USA: City-by-City

The cost arbitrage is the practical reason most Americans move to Brazil. Below are same-lifestyle monthly comparisons for a single American remote worker, using Numbeo cost-of-living indexes and locally verified 2025 rent data for prime expat neighborhoods.

### Rio de Janeiro vs Miami

| Expense | Rio (Ipanema/Leblon) | Miami (Brickell) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1BR apartment rent | $1,200-$1,800 | $2,800-$3,800 |
| Utilities + internet (300 Mbps) | $80-$120 | $180-$240 |
| Groceries (single) | $300-$450 | $500-$700 |
| Dining out (mid-range, 8x/mo) | $240 | $640 |
| Gym membership | $40 | $120 |
| Uber/transit | $80 | $220 |
| Private health insurance | $120 | $450 (ACA marketplace) |
| Total monthly | $2,060-$2,850 | $4,910-$6,170 |

### São Paulo vs Boston

| Expense | São Paulo (Pinheiros) | Boston (Back Bay) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1BR apartment rent | $900-$1,400 | $3,000-$4,200 |
| Utilities + internet | $100 | $220 |
| Groceries | $350 | $600 |
| Dining out (mid-range, 8x/mo) | $280 | $720 |
| Gym membership | $50 | $140 |
| Uber/transit | $90 | $200 |
| Private health insurance | $140 | $500 |
| Total monthly | $1,910-$2,410 | $5,380-$6,580 |

### Florianópolis vs Austin

| Expense | Florianópolis (Lagoa) | Austin (South Congress) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1BR apartment rent | $700-$1,200 | $1,900-$2,800 |
| Utilities + internet | $80 | $180 |
| Groceries | $320 | $500 |
| Dining out | $220 | $560 |
| Gym/CrossFit | $60 | $160 |
| Uber/scooter | $60 | $140 |
| Private health insurance | $110 | $400 |
| Total monthly | $1,550-$2,050 | $3,840-$4,740 |

A consistent pattern: same-tier neighborhoods in Brazil run 35-45% of equivalent US lifestyles. For Americans earning a US-denominated salary, this is the structural advantage that motivates most of our clients to move.

## Best Cities in Brazil for Americans

Brazil is a continent-sized country with dramatically different regional cultures. Below are the cities where most American expats settle, with the specific neighborhoods that anchor their respective expat communities.

### Rio de Janeiro

Ipanema, Leblon, Lagoa, Botafogo

1BR rent: $1,200-$1,800/mo

Beach culture, mountains in the city, world-class scenery. Zona Sul (the southern beach districts) is the safest and most English-friendly area. Famous internationally; tourist energy.

Best for: Beach lifestyle, photographers, lifestyle-driven nomads

### São Paulo

Pinheiros, Vila Madalena, Jardins, Itaim Bibi

1BR rent: $900-$1,500/mo

Largest city in South America. Strongest tech and finance scene in Brazil. World-class restaurants. No beach, but every cuisine, gym, and coworking space imaginable.

Best for: Career-driven nomads, foodies, those who want big-city density

### Florianópolis

Lagoa da Conceição, Jurerê, Centro

1BR rent: $700-$1,200/mo

Island city in the south. Safest mid-size Brazilian city. Strong surfer and nomad scene around Lagoa. Cooler in winter (15°C). Less Portuguese-required than other cities.

Best for: Safety-first, surf, growing nomad scene, families

### Recife & Olinda

Boa Viagem, Olinda historic center

1BR rent: $500-$900/mo

Northeast coastal city. Year-round warm weather (28°C). Major tech hub (Porto Digital). Lower cost of living than southern cities. Authentic Brazilian culture, less touristy.

Best for: Budget-conscious nomads, Northeast culture seekers, tech workers

Other cities worth considering: Belo Horizonte (BH) for affordability and craft beer culture, Curitiba for European-feeling urbanism and safety, Fortaleza for cheaper coastal living, and Salvador for Afro-Brazilian culture and historic architecture. Want lifestyle deep-dives? Read our companion guide: [Living in Brazil: the lifestyle guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-guide).

## Americans Living in Brazil: What Daily Life Is Actually Like

No official count of American residents exists, since Brazil does not publish nationality-level immigration statistics. The closest verifiable data point is Brazil's 2022 IBGE census, which counted roughly 70,000 foreign-born residents from North America (the US, Canada, and Mexico combined) out of about 1 million foreign-born residents nationwide. Anecdotally, the American share of that community has grown every year since the digital nomad visa launched in 2022, and the American expat community concentrates in a handful of places: Sao Paulo for work, Rio de Janeiro's Zona Sul for lifestyle, Florianopolis for the remote-work scene, and growing pockets in Recife, Fortaleza, and Curitiba.

Day to day, American expats in Brazil describe the same trade in both directions: life is warmer, cheaper, and more social than in the US, and slower, more bureaucratic, and conducted in Portuguese. The practical rhythm most Americans settle into: US remote work on a US-compatible time zone (Brasilia is 1-2 hours ahead of New York for most of the year), private health insurance at a fraction of US premiums, and weekends that cost half of what they did at home.

### Is Brazil safe for Americans?

Yes, with location awareness. The US State Department rates Brazil Level 2 ("exercise increased caution"), the same tier as France and Spain. The neighborhoods where American expats actually live (Ipanema, Leblon, Pinheiros, Jardim Paulista, Lagoa da Conceicao) see violent crime against foreigners at rates comparable to or below mid-tier US cities; the risk profile is property crime: phone snatching and opportunistic theft. The rules locals follow work: keep the phone off the street, use Uber or 99 instead of hailing taxis, avoid unfamiliar areas at night, and do not wear visible jewelry or flagship electronics in transit. Expats consistently report feeling safer in their Brazilian neighborhood after 6 months than the headlines suggested before arrival.

### Where the expat community actually gathers

The fastest way into the community: InterNations chapters in Sao Paulo and Rio, the Gringoes forum (running since 2001), city-specific Facebook and WhatsApp groups (search "Americans in Florianopolis" or "Expats in Rio"), and coworking spaces, where Florianopolis's remote-work scene in particular runs on English. Most Americans report their circle forms within the first two months through exactly these channels plus Portuguese classes.

## Healthcare for American Expats in Brazil

Brazil has a two-tier healthcare system: the universal public Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), free at the point of use for all residents including legal foreign residents, and a large private system used by middle-class Brazilians and most expats.

### Private health insurance

Most Americans use private health insurance. The three dominant providers in the expat market are SulAmérica Saúde, Unimed, and Bradesco Saúde. Monthly costs range from $80/month for a young single person with basic regional coverage to $300+/month for comprehensive national coverage including maternity. Premiums increase with age. By your 50s and 60s, expect $300-$600/month.

### International insurance for visa applications

For the VITEM XIV visa application, Brazilian consulates abroad require proof of international health insurance valid in Brazil with minimum $30,000 USD coverage. Common providers include IMG Global, GeoBlue (Blue Cross/Blue Shield expat product), Cigna Global, and SafetyWing. After arrival and obtaining your CRNM, most Americans switch to a Brazilian local plan because it is cheaper and provides better access to Brazilian doctors and hospitals.

### SUS access for foreigners

The Brazilian constitution guarantees healthcare as a right for everyone in Brazil, including tourists. In practice, SUS is excellent for emergencies, vaccinations, and chronic-disease management, with public hospitals like Hospital das Clínicas (São Paulo) and Hospital Federal da Lagoa (Rio) offering world-class care. Wait times for elective procedures can be long, which is why expats supplement with private insurance.

Health insurance rule for visas

Brazilian consulates abroad require health insurance with $30,000 USD minimum coverage for VITEM XIV applications. Applications submitted in-country via MigranteWeb do not require insurance proof under Resolution 45/2021, though our firm still recommends coverage from day one. Your insurance must be valid in Brazil.

## Retiring in Brazil as an American

Retiring in Brazil is legally straightforward for Americans: Brazil's retirement residency (CNIg Resolution 40/2019) asks for a transferable pension income of about $2,000 per month from abroad, and US Social Security, government or military pensions, VA benefits, and annuities all qualify cleanly. A retired couple living on $3,000-$4,000 a month lives comfortably in most Brazilian capitals, including private health insurance, at a standard that would take double or triple that in the US.

The choice most American retirees actually face is between two routes. If your income is a pension, the retirement visa is the natural fit: it renews toward permanent residency, which the digital nomad visa never does. If you are semi-retired with consulting or remote income but no formal pension, the VITEM XIV digital nomad visa gets you the same beaches on the $1,500/month income test. Full breakdown of the income test, documents, and timeline in the [Brazil retirement visa guide](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-retirement-visa).

|  | Retirement visa | Digital nomad visa (VITEM XIV) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Income test | ~$2,000/mo pension from abroad | $1,500/mo foreign work income or $18,000 savings |
| Path to permanent residency | Yes (about 2 years) | No; caps at 2 years |
| Best for | Social Security, military/government pensions, VA benefits | Semi-retired with remote or consulting income |

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## Banking and Money for Americans in Brazil

Most Americans run a hybrid setup: keep US bank accounts open, use Wise or a no-foreign-fee US debit card for daily spending in the early months, then open a Brazilian account once you have your CPF and CRNM.

### Keep your US banks open

Charles Schwab Brokerage Bank (no foreign ATM fees, refunds all foreign ATM operator fees), Fidelity Cash Management Account, and Capital One 360 are the gold standard for Americans abroad. Most national US banks require a US address on file. Use a relative's address, a mail-forwarding service (Earth Class Mail, Traveling Mailbox), or your previous US address until you have a long-term solution. See our deep-dive: [US Bank Accounts While Living in Brazil](https://getbrazilvisa.com/us-bank-accounts-while-living-in-brazil).

### Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is the single most useful tool for Americans moving to Brazil. It lets you hold multiple currencies (USD and BRL accounts), transfer between them at the mid-market exchange rate, and spend with a debit card. Most Americans receive their US salary into Wise USD, then convert only what they need each month to BRL. The savings vs traditional bank wires are substantial.

### CPF (Brazilian tax ID)

The CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) is your Brazilian tax ID, required for almost everything. Any foreigner can obtain one without a visa. Apply at a Brazilian consulate in the US (some allow online application) or upon arrival at any Banco do Brasil, Caixa, or Receita Federal office. Read more: [Brazil CPF Guide for Digital Nomads](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-cpf-for-digital-nomads).

### Brazilian digital banks

Once you have a CPF, the easiest Brazilian bank accounts to open are with digital banks: Nubank (largest by user count, foreigner-friendly), Inter (full-service, no fees), and C6 Bank (good app, good FX rates). Traditional Brazilian banks (Itaú, Bradesco, Banco do Brasil) typically require a CRNM (residence card) and proof of address, slower to set up but necessary for some services.

### Ready to start your Brazil residency application?

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## Bringing Family: Spouses, Children, and Pets

The VITEM XIV digital nomad visa explicitly allows family reunion. The principal applicant (the one meeting the income requirement) applies first; spouses and minor children apply as dependents on the same visa class. Each dependent receives their own CRNM, with the same validity period as the principal.

### Spouses and stable unions

Brazil recognizes both formal marriage and "união estável" (stable union, Brazil's substantial equivalent to domestic partnership). Same-sex marriages are fully recognized. Required documents: marriage certificate or stable union declaration, apostilled and translated by a sworn translator. Read the full couples guide: [Brazil Digital Nomad Visa for Couples](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-digital-nomad-visa-couples).

### Children

Minor children apply with apostilled birth certificates and the consent of both parents (or court-ordered custody documents). Brazilian public school is free for all legal residents. Quality varies; many American families choose international or bilingual private schools. Costs range from $5,000/year for bilingual private schools in Recife or Florianópolis to $25,000-$30,000/year for top international schools (Graded School São Paulo, American School of Rio). For the full family guide, see: [Brazil Digital Nomad Visa for Families](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-digital-nomad-visa-family).

### Pets

Brazil accepts dogs and cats from the US with an International Veterinary Health Certificate (CVI) issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and endorsed by USDA APHIS within 10 days of travel, plus a current rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before travel and not more than 12 months prior. No quarantine. Most US-Brazil routes (American, Delta, LATAM, United) accept small dogs and cats in-cabin (typically up to 7kg including carrier) and larger animals as cargo or checked baggage.

## Housing: Rent, Buy, or Airbnb First

The standard playbook: Airbnb for the first 30-60 days while you scout neighborhoods, then sign a long-term lease. Buying property is possible for foreigners with just a CPF, but most Americans wait at least 6-12 months before buying so they know the city.

### Airbnb for the first 60 days

Brazilian Airbnbs in expat neighborhoods run $1,500-$4,000/month for a furnished one-bedroom. Negotiate monthly discounts directly with hosts. Most offer 30-40% off the nightly rate for 28+ day stays. This buys you time to walk the neighborhoods, identify the right block, and meet local landlords without committing.

### Quinto Andar and long-term leases

Quinto Andar is the dominant online platform for Brazilian rentals, with thousands of listings across major cities. They allow foreigner applications with a CPF and proof of income (Brazilian or foreign). Their model removes the traditional Brazilian rental friction, normally Brazilian landlords require a "fiador" (guarantor) who owns Brazilian property. Quinto Andar replaces this with their own guarantee system. Other platforms: ImovelWeb, Loft, ZAP Imóveis, and city-specific Facebook groups.

### Buying property

Foreigners can buy urban Brazilian property with the same rights as Brazilians. Only a CPF is required (no visa or residence card needed). Closing costs run 4-6% of purchase price (ITBI transfer tax 2-3%, deed registration 1-2%, attorney 0.5-1%). Mortgages exist but are rarely worth it for foreigners. Rates are 9-13%. Most American buyers pay cash, often bringing funds via Wise or international wire through a formal foreign exchange contract (contrato de câmbio), so the transfer is properly registered. Brazilian banks must register FX transactions above R$10,000 in Sisbacen, and property purchases over R$300,000 additionally require a DECRED filing with Receita Federal. Skipping this documentation can block repatriation of proceeds later if you sell.

## Internet, Coworking, and Daily Life

Brazilian fiber internet is excellent in major cities: 300 Mbps fiber plans run $20-$40/month from providers like Vivo Fibra, Claro NET, and TIM Live. Most apartments in Pinheiros, Ipanema, and Lagoa da Conceição come fiber-ready. Mobile networks are strong, with Vivo, Claro, and TIM offering 5G in major cities. Prepaid SIM cards cost around $10-$25/month for 30-50 GB of data plus unlimited WhatsApp.

### Coworking spaces

Major coworking chains include WeWork (premium, $300-$500/month for a hot desk), CWB Cowork, Beer or Coffee (large nomad community), and Selina (combines coworking with accommodation). Independent spaces are often cheaper and have stronger local nomad networks. ask in city-specific WhatsApp groups before signing.

### Day-to-day apps

WhatsApp is the dominant communication app. Businesses, doctors, landlords, and even some government offices communicate via WhatsApp. Uber and 99 are the rideshare standards. iFood dominates food delivery. Mercado Livre and Amazon Brazil cover most ecommerce. Pix is Brazil's instant-payment system: once you have a Brazilian bank account, Pix replaces Venmo for most peer-to-peer payments and is accepted by most merchants instantly and for free.

## Learning Portuguese as an American

You can survive in São Paulo Pinheiros, Rio Zona Sul, and Florianópolis Lagoa without Portuguese. Many restaurants, gyms, and coworking spaces have English-speaking staff. But survival is not the same as living. Basic Portuguese transforms your daily experience and opens access to neighborhoods, friendships, and services that English-only expats never see.

### The standard American learner stack

Most American expats reach functional conversational Portuguese in 3-6 months with a three-pronged approach: Duolingo or Pimsleur daily for vocabulary and grammar fundamentals (15-30 minutes), Preply or italki for 1-2 weekly one-on-one tutoring sessions ($10-$20/hour with Brazilian tutors), and intentional immersion: Brazilian Spotify playlists, Brazilian Netflix shows (Cidade Invisível, 3%, Coisa Mais Linda), and saying "obrigado" instead of "thank you" from day one.

### Spanish does not equal Portuguese

Americans with Spanish often assume Portuguese will be straightforward. The reading is surprisingly easy; the listening is much harder. Brazilian Portuguese has more vowel sounds than Spanish, dropped final consonants, and unique nasal sounds. Spanish gives you a head-start on vocabulary but you must train your ear separately.

## Common Mistakes Americans Make Moving to Brazil

-   Entering on a tourist eVisa and trying to work remotely. Legally ambiguous and offers no protections; apply for VITEM XIV instead.
-   Buying property in the first 60 days. You do not yet know the neighborhood you actually want to live in.
-   Skipping FBAR or FATCA filings. Penalties for unfiled foreign-account disclosures can exceed account balances.
-   Letting your US bank account go dormant. You need it for FEIE eligibility documentation, US tax filings, and emergency liquidity.
-   Closing all US ties before establishing Brazilian residency. Keep your US driver's license, US address, and at least one US credit card.
-   Underestimating the FBI background check timeline. Start it 60+ days before your consulate appointment.
-   Not apostilling FBI checks. The #1 document rejection reason at Brazilian consulates. See our deep-dive: [FBI Background Check for Brazil Visa](https://getbrazilvisa.com/fbi-background-check-for-brazil-visa)
-   Ignoring the 183-day rule. Staying long-term without understanding Brazilian tax residency creates problems at year 2 and beyond.
-   Choosing a city without visiting first. Use the eVisa for a 2-week scouting trip before committing.
-   Assuming one Brazilian consulate's process matches another. Miami, Houston, Washington DC, New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles each have local procedural quirks.

Compare destinations before committing

Considering both Brazil and Mexico? Read our dedicated comparison: [Brazil vs Mexico Digital Nomad Visa for Americans](https://getbrazilvisa.com/brazil-vs-mexico-digital-nomad-visa-for-americans). Considering whether to work for a US company from Brazil long-term? See: [Can I Work Remotely from Brazil for a US Company?](https://getbrazilvisa.com/can-i-work-remotely-from-brazil-for-us-company)

## Step-by-Step: Your First 6 Months in Brazil

A month-by-month roadmap. Adapt the timing to your situation, but treat the sequence as authoritative. These are the dependencies most American movers learn the hard way.

1

### Month 1: Visa Preparation (still in the US)

Order your FBI Identity History Summary ($18 from FBI CJIS Division; electronic processing in 3-5 business days). Submit for apostille at the US Department of State ($20) or via an approved channeler ($75-$150 for faster turnaround). Gather 6 months of bank statements showing $1,500+/month in foreign income, or proof of $18,000+ savings. Purchase international health insurance with $30,000 USD minimum coverage. Book sworn Portuguese translations (tradutor juramentado) for all documents.

2

### Month 2: Apply and Plan Arrival

Submit your VITEM XIV application at the nearest Brazilian consulate (Miami, Houston, New York, Washington DC, Atlanta, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Chicago), or plan to apply via MigranteWeb after arrival. Buy your $81 eVisa for entry. Book a 30-60 day Airbnb in your target neighborhood. Notify your US bank, credit cards, and tax accountant of your move.

3

### Month 3: Arrive and Settle Temporarily

Fly into Brazil. Settle into the Airbnb. Within the first 1-2 weeks: get your CPF (Brazilian tax ID) at any Banco do Brasil, Caixa, or Receita Federal office. Buy a Brazilian SIM card (Vivo, Claro, or TIM; bring your passport). Scout long-term neighborhoods. Visit at least 3-5 apartments in person before signing anything long-term.

4

### Month 4: Federal Police Registration

Within 90 days of your visa approval, schedule a Federal Police (Polícia Federal) appointment online to register your residence and biometrics. Pay the GRU fee (around R$200). You will receive a temporary protocol immediately and your CRNM physical card within 30-90 days. The CRNM is your Brazilian residence ID. It unlocks Brazilian banks, long-term leases, and SUS healthcare.

5

### Month 5: Long-Term Housing and Brazilian Banking

Sign a long-term lease (typically 12-30 months) via Quinto Andar, a local realtor, or a private landlord. Open a Brazilian bank account. Nubank, Inter, or C6 Bank are the easiest digital options for foreigners with CPF + CRNM. Set up Pix payments. If you want to switch from international to local health insurance, this is the moment.

6

### Month 6: Integration and Tax Planning

Begin Portuguese classes (in person at a Brazilian language school or via Preply for 1-on-1 online). Join expat groups: InterNations chapters, city-specific nomad WhatsApp groups, Brazilian Couchsurfing meetups, BJJ or capoeira gyms (best Brazilian friendship pipelines). File your US taxes for the year of departure. Engage an expat CPA. If you have crossed the 183-day threshold in Brazil, also engage a Brazilian contador for local filings.

## Frequently Asked Questions: Americans Moving to Brazil

### Can Americans legally move to Brazil in 2026?

### How much money do Americans need to move to Brazil?

### Do Americans still pay US taxes if they live in Brazil?

### What is the best city in Brazil for Americans?

### Can I keep my US bank account while living in Brazil?

### Do I need to speak Portuguese to live in Brazil?

### Is Brazil safe for American expats?

### Can my American spouse and children come with me?

### Can Americans bring their pets to Brazil?

### How does Brazilian healthcare work for Americans?

### How long can I stay in Brazil on a tourist visa?

### Can I work for a US company while living in Brazil?

### How long does Brazilian residency processing take?

### What is the difference between Brazil's eVisa and the digital nomad visa?

### Can Americans buy property in Brazil?

### Is moving to Brazil from the US worth it?

### Do I need an FBI background check to move to Brazil?

### What about Brazilian inflation and currency risk?

### Can I get a driver's license as an American in Brazil?

### How do I get a CPF (Brazilian tax ID) as an American?

### How many Americans live in Brazil?

### Do Americans need a visa for Brazil in 2026?

### How long can Americans stay in Brazil?

### Can I retire in Brazil as an American?

## Sources and Primary References

-   [Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (gov.br/mre)](https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br) , official visa policy and consular network.
-   [Brazilian Federal Police (Polícia Federal)](https://www.gov.br/pf/pt-br) , RNM/CRNM registration, residence cards.
-   [Conselho Nacional de Imigração (CNIg): Resolution 45/2021](https://www.gov.br/casacivil/pt-br/assuntos/cnig) , the regulatory basis for VITEM XIV.
-   [IRS: Foreign Earned Income Exclusion](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-earned-income-exclusion) , FEIE qualifying tests and 2026 limits.
-   [FBI: Identity History Summary Checks](https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks) , background check ordering process.
-   [US Department of State: Apostille requirements](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/travel-document-authentications/Apostille-Requirements.html) , federal apostille for FBI checks.
-   [USDA APHIS: Pet Travel to Brazil](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel) , International Veterinary Health Certificate.
-   [Numbeo: Brazil cost-of-living indexes](https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Brazil) , comparative city-by-city cost data referenced in the comparison tables above.

## Ready to move to Brazil? Start your VITEM XIV application

Our AI-powered visa tool plus an OAB-licensed attorney review the documents that 95%+ of applicants get wrong: apostille, sworn translations, and income evidence. We have helped hundreds of Americans complete their move.

[Start Application](https://getbrazilvisa.com/apply)

This page provides general informational content about Brazilian immigration and relocation for US citizens. It is not legal or tax advice. Official requirements and consular procedures can change without notice. Individual cases differ based on personal circumstances, consulate location, and current processing policies. Consult a qualified immigration attorney and an expat-tax CPA for advice specific to your situation. Last reviewed: July 14, 2026.

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Consider Brazilian tax filing if you will exceed 183 days.","url":"https://getbrazilvisa.com/americans-moving-to-brazil-complete-2026-guide#six-months"}]},{"@type":"FAQPage","@id":"https://getbrazilvisa.com/americans-moving-to-brazil-complete-2026-guide#faq","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"Can Americans legally move to Brazil in 2026?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. US citizens can move to Brazil under several visa categories. The most popular for remote workers is the VITEM XIV Digital Nomad Visa, which requires $1,500/month in foreign income and is valid for 1 year, renewable for 1 more. Other pathways include the family reunion visa, retirement visa, investor visa, and student visa."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How much money do Americans need to move to Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Plan for $5,000-$10,000 in upfront costs for a single mover: visa fees ($500-$700), flights ($600-$1,200), first/last month rent and deposit ($1,500-$4,000), insurance ($500-$2,000), shipping or buying basics ($500-$2,000). Monthly living costs range from $1,500 in smaller cities to $3,500+ in Rio Zona Sul or São Paulo prime neighborhoods."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do Americans still pay US taxes if they live in Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. The United States taxes worldwide income regardless of residence. However, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) allows you to exclude up to $132,900 of foreign-earned income in 2026 (indexed annually), and the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) lets you offset US tax with Brazilian tax paid. After 183 days in Brazil, you may also become a Brazilian tax resident."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the best city in Brazil for Americans?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"It depends on lifestyle. Florianópolis offers beach and safety with a growing nomad scene. Rio de Janeiro (Zona Sul) offers beach culture and English-friendly neighborhoods. São Paulo (Pinheiros, Vila Madalena) offers the strongest job market and international scene. Recife and Fortaleza are more affordable with growing tech sectors."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I keep my US bank account while living in Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, and most Americans should. US banks like Charles Schwab, Fidelity, and Wise (Wise account) allow international access with low or no foreign-transaction fees. You will, however, want a local Brazilian account once you have a CPF and CRNM. Nubank, Inter, and C6 Bank are foreigner-friendly digital options."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do I need to speak Portuguese to live in Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can survive without it in São Paulo, Rio Zona Sul, and Florianópolis, especially in tech and nomad circles. For daily life (doctors, banks, federal police, taxis outside tourist areas), basic Portuguese makes everything easier. Most Americans reach functional Portuguese in 3-6 months with Duolingo plus weekly Preply lessons."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is Brazil safe for American expats?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, with location awareness. Major expat neighborhoods (Ipanema, Leblon, Pinheiros, Jardim Paulista, Lagoa da Conceição) are comparable to mid-tier US cities for property crime and lower for violent crime against foreigners. Avoid favelas without a local guide, do not show expensive electronics in public, and use Uber or 99 over street taxis."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can my American spouse and children come with me?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. The VITEM XIV digital nomad visa explicitly permits family reunion. Your legal spouse and minor children apply as dependents on the principal applicant's visa. They receive their own CRNM. Public school is free for all residents including foreign children. International school costs $10,000-$30,000/year."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can Americans bring their pets to Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. Brazil requires an International Veterinary Health Certificate (CVI) issued by the USDA APHIS within 10 days of travel, plus an updated rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before travel. Most US-Brazil routes accept dogs and cats in cabin (under 7kg) or cargo. There is no quarantine."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How does Brazilian healthcare work for Americans?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Brazil has a universal public system (SUS) that all legal residents including foreigners can access for free, plus a large private system. Most American expats use private health insurance (SulAmérica, Unimed, Bradesco Saúde) at $80-$300/month for comprehensive coverage. SUS works well for emergencies but private is faster for non-urgent care."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How long can I stay in Brazil on a tourist visa?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"US citizens need an eVisa ($81) before entry as of April 2025. The eVisa allows stays of up to 90 days, extendable by another 90 days for a total of 180 days per 12-month period. Tourist status does not authorize work or residence, even remote work. For that you need VITEM XIV."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I work for a US company while living in Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, under the VITEM XIV Digital Nomad Visa. The visa was created specifically for this: remote work for foreign employers and clients. You cannot work for a Brazilian employer or take Brazilian clients on VITEM XIV (that requires a work visa, VITEM V)."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How long does Brazilian residency processing take?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"VITEM XIV via a US consulate: 2 weeks to 3 months. VITEM XIV via MigranteWeb (applying from inside Brazil): 15-30 business days. After visa approval, you have 90 days to register with the Brazilian Federal Police to receive your CRNM (residence ID card)."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the difference between Brazil's eVisa and the digital nomad visa?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The eVisa ($81) is a tourist authorization that all US citizens need before entry. It allows 90 days of tourism, extendable to 180. The Digital Nomad Visa (VITEM XIV) is a residence visa that authorizes 1 year of legal remote-work residence, renewable for 1 more. Tourists cannot legally work; digital nomad visa holders can."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can Americans buy property in Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. Foreigners can buy urban property in Brazil with the same rights as Brazilian citizens. You only need a CPF (tax ID), which any foreigner can obtain. Rural property has restrictions on foreign ownership. Most American expats rent for the first 6-12 months before deciding to buy."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is moving to Brazil from the US worth it?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"For Americans seeking lower cost of living, beach lifestyle, year-round warm weather, and a US-compatible time zone (1-2 hours ahead of New York, depending on US daylight saving), Brazil offers a unique value. The trade-offs are bureaucracy, Portuguese as the daily language, and infrastructure that varies by neighborhood. Most American expats who stay 1+ year report high satisfaction."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do I need an FBI background check to move to Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, for the Digital Nomad Visa and most residence visas. You need an FBI Identity History Summary ($18), apostilled by the US Department of State ($20) or an approved channeler, then translated by a Brazilian sworn translator (tradutor juramentado). Total cost approximately $150-$300 depending on translation."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What about Brazilian inflation and currency risk?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The Brazilian real (BRL) has historically been volatile against the US dollar. Americans paid in USD generally benefit from a strong dollar. Your dollar buys more in Brazil than it did 5 years ago. Keep most savings in USD via your US bank or Wise, convert to BRL only what you need for monthly expenses."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I get a driver's license as an American in Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can drive on a valid US license plus an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 180 days. After becoming a legal resident with CRNM, you must obtain a Brazilian CNH (Carteira Nacional de Habilitação). Some states accept your US license for conversion; others require driving school and exams."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I get a CPF (Brazilian tax ID) as an American?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Any foreigner can get a CPF. You do not need a visa first. Apply at a Brazilian consulate in the US (some allow online application), or upon arrival at any Banco do Brasil, Caixa, or Receita Federal office. The CPF is required for nearly everything: signing leases, opening bank accounts, buying SIM cards, online purchases."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How many Americans live in Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"There is no official count specific to Americans; Brazil does not publish nationality-level immigration statistics. The closest verifiable figure is Brazil's 2022 IBGE census, which counted roughly 70,000 foreign-born residents from North America (the US, Canada, and Mexico combined) out of about 1 million foreign-born residents nationwide. US citizens are the largest single applicant nationality for the VITEM XIV (about 6 in 10 of GetBrazilVisa's applications), so Americans likely make up a large share of that North American total."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do Americans need a visa for Brazil in 2026?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, for any entry. Since April 10, 2025, US citizens need a Brazilian eVisa ($81) even for tourism, which allows up to 90 days, extendable to 180 per year. To live in Brazil, Americans need a residence visa: the digital nomad visa (VITEM XIV) for remote workers, the retirement visa for pensioners, or family/investor routes."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How long can Americans stay in Brazil?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"On a tourist eVisa: 90 days, extendable once to 180 days per 12-month period. On the digital nomad visa: 1 year, renewable to 2 years total. On the retirement, family reunion, or investor routes: renewable residency with a path to permanent status. Overstaying tourist status accrues fines of R$100 per day (capped at R$10,000) and complicates future applications."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I retire in Brazil as an American?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. Brazil's retirement residency (CNIg Resolution 40/2019) asks for about $2,000/month in transferable pension income, which US Social Security, government and military pensions, VA benefits, and annuities satisfy. Unlike the digital nomad visa, it renews toward permanent residency. A retired couple lives comfortably in most Brazilian capitals on $3,000-$4,000/month including private health insurance."}}]}]}
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