If youve studied in Brazil and are thinking about staying to work, theres good news.

Overview

If you've studied in Brazil and are thinking about staying to work, there's good news. A new immigration rule allows foreign graduates who have completed a university degree or postgraduate course (stricto sensu) in Brazil to apply for a temporary residence permit for work purposes. This applies as long as you are still in the country, and your course was taken primarily at a Brazilian institution recognised by the Ministry of Education. Both in-person and hybrid programmes are accepted, provided assessments were done face-to-face. Once granted, the initial residence is valid for up to two years and can later be converted into permanent residency. To apply, the applicant has to provide related documents such as your degree, proof of job, a valid passport or identity document, criminal background checks, and other formal paperwork. This new route opens opportunities for foreign students to build a professional future in Brazil without needing to leave and reapply from abroad. Legal guidance can help clarify the applicable rules, the risks involved, and the next step that fits your situation.