In the context of a profound political, economic and institutional crisis affecting…

Overview

In the context of a profound political, economic and institutional crisis affecting Venezuela, mass migration has been marked by a significant difficulty: the impossibility of accessing consular services or the issuance of essential documents, such as birth certificates, valid passports or criminal record certificates. Faced with this reality, the Brazilian State has adopted a migration policy that is sensitive to the situation of these migrants. Brazil allows nationals from bordering countries that do not have a current MERCOSUR agreement on residence to request residence authorization even if they entered the country irregularly and even if they do not have all the supporting records in other immigration scenarios. The rule contemplates the possibility of self-declaration of affiliation, as well as the use of expired documents, or even their dispensation, in cases of documented vulnerability. Furthermore, after two years of regular residence, the migrant can apply for permanent residence, as long as they have no criminal record and can demonstrate means of subsistence. This legal instrument is presented as a concrete response to the Venezuelan immigration emergency, facilitating the immigration registration and integration of Venezuelans who are already in Brazilian territory, respecting their dignity and promoting legal security.