Study Visa (VITEM IV)
Foreign nationals travelling to Brazil to participate in regular courses or academic internships must have a student visa (VITEM IV). If the duration of these activities is shorter than 90 days, the applicant must request a visitor visa (VIVIS).
Regular courses include primary and secondary levels of education; undergraduate and postgraduate degrees; technical courses and language courses. Courses must be legally registered with the Brazilian Ministry of Education for their declarations to be accepted.
Applicants willing to participate in academic internships in Brazil must be associated with an education institution abroad, and the internship must comprise activities that improve their academic or professional qualification.
Applicants who wish to participate in activities such as teaching, research or academic extension qualify for a different type of visa (VITEM I).
A minimum workload of 15 hours per week is a requirement for a VITEM IV and must be clearly stated in the documents that will be presented to the consular agent.
Foreign nationals who are in Brazil may apply for a residence permit for the purposes of study / exchange directly with the Federal Police.
The VITEM IV authorizes the applicant to study at a specific institution. The student must contact the Federal Police before applying to a University transfer.
Student visas have a maximum validity of one year. Once in Brazil, the student must apply for an authorization of residence at the Federal Police, within 90 days of their entry in the country. Failing to do so will invalidate the visa.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
- Electronic visa application form available here.
- Visa Request Form Receipt (RER), obtained at the end of the electronic visa application form. The receipt must be printed, signed (by the applicant or by both parents, in case of minors) and a photograph must be attached to the appropriate box;
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages;
- Criminal record issued by the applicant’s country of nationality (for applicants aged 18 years old or older);
- Letter from the institution in Brazil that will host the student specifying the name of the course or internship program, duration, period, and weekly workload. The letter must be legalized by a notary public in Brazil (documents issued by public institutions are exempted);
- Proof of financial means compatible with the entire period of stay in Brazil (i.e. bank or credit card statements, savings certificate, letter from employer etc.) or proof of a scholarship grant;
- Additional documents, depending on the type of course;
- Receipt for payment of the visa fee. Visa fees may vary according to nationality:
To find out how to pay click here.
BOOKING APPOINTMENT
Gather the necessary documentation and request the service via the e-consular system: https://ec-istambul.itamaraty.gov.br
Once the documentation has been checked, your visit to the Consulate will be authorised. Keep an eye on your e-mail address to follow up on updates, as the appointment will be made by the concerned person once they have received the e-mail.
On the day of the appointment, don't forget to bring your original documents and proof of payment.