Brazil offers one of the most attractive investor visa programs in Latin America — a legal path to permanent residency and business ownership through direct investment. However, many foreigners face unnecessary delays or even rejections because of avoidable mistakes.

At our immigration law firm, we’ve helped many international clients successfully apply for the Brazil Investment Visa. Here are the 10 most common mistakes we see — and how to avoid them.

1️⃣ Not Having a Clear Business Plan

A business plan isn’t just a formality — it’s a mandatory part of your visa application.Many applicants submit weak, vague, or unrealistic plans that don't show how the business will benefit Brazil.

✅ Tip: Work with a professional who knows what the Ministry of Justice expects.

2️⃣ Investing Without Registering the Capital Legally

Simply transferring money to Brazil isn’t enough. The funds must be:

• Sent from abroad

• Registered through the Central Bank’s RDE-IED system

Failure to register your investment correctly can invalidate your application.

3️⃣ Thinking Real Estate Qualifies

Buying property in Brazil does not qualify for the investment visa (has exception). The visa is based on productive investment — like opening or funding a business.

✅ Tip: You can open a real estate company, but not apply through property ownership alone.

4️⃣ Underestimating the Minimum Investment

Many foreigners think any amount is enough. To qualify:

• You must invest R$500,000 BRL, or

• R$150,000 BRL if you create at least 10 jobs over 2 years

Sending less than the required amount is one of the most common reasons for denial.

5️⃣ Applying Without Appointing a Legal Representative

If you're outside Brazil, your company must have a Brazilian legal representative to sign and receive official documents.

✅ Tip: Choose someone trustworthy or work with an experienced law firm.

6️⃣ Using Incomplete or Expired Documents

A missing apostille, outdated background check, or improperly translated document can delay or cancel your application.

✅ Tip: All foreign documents must be sworn-translated and apostilled.

7️⃣ Not Registering a Company Before Applying

Some people apply for the visa before they even register their business — but Brazil requires that the company is already:

• Created

• Legally active

• Registered with Receita Federal (CNPJ)

8️⃣ Choosing the Wrong Business Activity

The government wants your business to bring economic value and job creation. Choosing high-risk or inactive sectors may hurt your approval chances.

✅ Tip: Focus on realistic, job-creating, or tech/innovation-friendly sectors.

9️⃣ Trying to Do It All Without Legal Help

The process involves:

• Immigration law

• Corporate law

• Tax compliance

• Investment registration

Trying to handle everything alone often leads to delays, rejections, or compliance problems later.

🔟 Ignoring Post-Visa Requirements

After your visa is approved, you must:

• Obtain your RNM (Brazilian residence card)

• Report regularly to Receita Federal and Federal Police

• Keep your business active and legal

✅ Tip: Stay in touch with your lawyer or accountant to stay compliant.

🚀 Let Us Help You Succeed

Applying for the Brazil Investment Visa can be smooth and successful — if you do it right. At our immigration law firm, we specialize in:

• Creating strong business plans

• Registering your investment legally

• Preparing and submitting your complete visa application

• Providing bilingual legal support every step of the way

📩 Contact us today to avoid costly mistakes and start your new life in Brazil with confidence.