Buy a Property in Brazil (2024)

Buy a Property in Brazil (1)

Many people's dream is to be able to acquire a property to call their own. And did you know that you can buy a property in Brazil even if you are living abroad?

That's right! That is exactly what we are going to deal with in today's article. Many Brazilians who live abroad do not know, but they can acquire the dream of their own property even though they are far from Brazil.

But, how do you do that? What are the criteria and what are the documents required for this type of transaction? This is what we will clarify below.

Stay with us and learn all about real estate credit for emigrants and how to buy a property in Brazil even if you are abroad.

Is it possible to buy a property in Brazil living abroad?

The answer is simple: yes! It is completely possible to buy an apartment or a house in Brazil living abroad.

And that's not all: anyone who wants to make a purchase of real estate in Brazil can do it. It is not necessary, necessarily, to have been born in Brazil or to be Brazilian.

Below, we explain how this process works.

How does it work to buy a property living outside Brazil?

In this case, it is necessary to go to the consulate, make the power of attorney, register it and send the original documentation to the bank that will finance the mortgage or to the construction company.

The buyer needs to indicate the person to whom he will send the power of attorney and who will be authorized to sign all necessary documents, and to resolve bureaucratic issues with the notary and bank.

Is it worth buying property in Brazil living outside Brazil?

After knowing what are the procedures for buying real estate in Brazil living abroad, is it worth it?

We believe that it is worth it, because the bureaucratic processes are very similar to those that happen with those who live in Brazil and want to acquire a property here.

In other words, the bureaucracy is relatively low, and in addition, there is the factor devaluation of the real and the appreciation of other currencies in comparison with the Brazilian currency.

So it may be worthwhile to make this transaction and acquire your property in Brazil even if you live abroad.

If you intend to invest in real estate in Brazil, here are some tips.

Any citizen can purchase urban properties in Brazil, including foreigners. The only restrictions existing by foreigners are related to the purchase of rural properties, marine land and along the borders, the restrictions do not apply in the case of an autonomous unit of condominiums, such as the purchase of apartments in a building located on land of marine or land lots. The Constitution of the Federative Republic of Brazil states that the law will regulate and limit the acquisition of rural property by foreigners, leaving the acquisition of urban properties free. It should be noted that the purchase of minimum R$ 1.000.000 Brazilian Reais in real estate in Brazil give foreigners the right to obtain a permanent visa.

The foreigner cannot acquire journalistic, radio broadcasting and image companies - only Brazilians born or naturalized for more than 10 (ten) years - or legal entity constituted under the Brazilian laws that have their headquarters in the country. These companies must have at least 70% (seventy percent) of the capital in the hands of native or naturalized Brazilians, who will necessarily exercise the direction of the company and the responsibility for the selection of the program transmitted and regulated by the Public Power.

Necessary documents for the purchase of real estate for foreigners in Brazil:

• Foreigner's passport or RNE (National Alien Registration) if you have a permanent visa;

• CPF, Individual Taxpayer Registration at the Ministry of Finance, if the buyer is married, in Brazil or abroad, the spouse's CPF and marriage certificate will also be required.

To acquire the CPF registration, the foreigner in Brazil must go to any Federal Revenue Office (RFB) in the main Brazilian cities with the passport and the entry visa in Brazil, requesting their registration after filling out the Individual Taxpayer Registration Form. Registration with the CPF can be done by means of a power of attorney with specific powers that can even be drawn up at the Brazilian consulate. In this case, in addition to filling out the Individual Taxpayer Registration Form, a certified copy of the identity used in the foreigner's country of residence is required, in addition to the proxy's identity and the power of attorney.

Necessary documents for the purchase of real estate for foreigners residing abroad:

• Foreigner's passport or RNE (National Alien Registration) if you have a permanent visa;

• CPF (individual registration). The CPF can also be requested at Brazilian consulates in the foreigner's country of origin or in Brazil by proxy, and if the buyer is married, the other spouse's CPF will also be required for purchase;

• Public power of attorney legalized in the Brazilian consular office of the country of origin of the foreigner, in Brazil registered in the Titles and Documents Offices and translated, with full powers, to buy, sign deed, private contracts and resolve any matter before the Notaries, Registry Real Estate (CRI) and IRS for regularization in Brazil of the property acquired on behalf of the foreigner.

The Public Deed and the Real Estate Registry: The purchase of a property can only be made by public deed, a document that the Law considers able to be registered at the Real Estate Registry Office. The deed of the property can be made in any notary's office (notary).

Much of this positive scenario is due to the fact that, when buying land, a house, an apartment or a living room, the property tends to appreciate over the years, while generating fruit - whether in the form of rent or its own use and enjoyment by the owner. The value of a property, especially if acquired during a crisis (which the market calls “low”), tends to increase. In addition, the property is very clean and cannot be “lost” or “stolen”. This, unlike what happens with automobiles or jewelry, for example.

Surveys points to significant growth in the commercial rental and warehouses market, including in large Brazilian capitals, such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

The survey shows that the properties used by large companies in the city of Rio recorded a decrease in vacancy, and an increase in the percentage of occupied properties. In the capital of São Paulo, the same thing happened.

The following are five reasons that show why investing in real estate is worthwhile:

Safety

As long as the structural quality and vigor of the region is maintained, a property does not lose its value. According to experts, on average an owner of an office, store or warehouse collects an income of 0.8% per month in each leased unit, reaching 9.6% per year.

This value is higher than Referenced Fixed Income Funds, such as the Bank Deposit Certificate (CDB), for example, which can reach 9% per year. Recalling that in addition to income, a property acquired during the “low”, almost always undergoes appreciation.

Residential properties, although they are the most liquid and the easiest to rent, generate lower profitability than commercial properties, an average residential property - apartment or house - is usually rented faster than a commercial property, but usually generates less income, around 0.4% per month. It would be the most suitable property for investment by a person who is less able to afford its costs, while it is empty.

Expectation of recovery

As we said at the beginning of the text, the real estate market has a positive track record, since properties are valued annually, in addition to always following inflation, not to mention the great appreciation that is expected when acquired in times of crisis. Add that to the fact that the country is going through an excellent moment for acquisition in the sector, with the lowest Selic interest rate in history, at 3% per year. In other words, having money invested in the bank, in low-risk applications, has become less profitable than ever. Meanwhile, by 2025 there will be a demand for 14.5 million new homes, according to data from the Getúlio Vargas Foundation.

Durability

A property is a long-lasting asset, whether it is a house, apartment, flat or commercial property. If the option is to rent a recently acquired property, it is estimated that the complete return on investment, with the receipt of rents, does not take more than 10 years. Except that, in addition to receiving the rents, you own a property, which, if purchased at a time like the present, is, according to experts, practically a guarantee of appreciation. In other words, everything you receive monthly after this period is profit and continues for years, requiring only repairs to maintain your assets.

Risk reduction

While other forms of investment include high volatility, the real estate market remains stable and the greatest risk is vacancy. A great example is what happened during the Coronavirus pandemic: while the stock market dropped by 39.28% in two months and the price of oil was negative, the value of the properties practically did not change and a certain profile becomes more sought: the second residence in places close to nature. Planalto Invest, a developer based in Goiás, saw its business take off. In April, the company sold 7.5 times more lots than in March, reaching R $ 9 million in PSV (general sales value).

High housing deficit

According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), Brazil suffers from a lack of 7.7 million homes. Thus, with the increase in population, the demand for rental units also grows, that is, the market continues to expand.

We interviewed several specialists and managed to gather some of the main characteristics that the property must have, in Rio, to be more liquid and easier to rent.

The real estate market in Rio de Janeiro, despite the problems that the city has, is one of the most suitable for those seeking income from real estate. The city, squeezed between the mountains and the sea, has certain locations that are highly desirable, according to the proximity of the beaches or, alternatively, the main modes of transport. The choice of a property that the market considers “easy to rent” should be guided by the proximity of the shopping centers.

Buy a Property in Brazil (2024)

FAQs

Can a foreigner buy a property in Brazil? ›

If you intend to invest in real estate in Brazil, here are some tips. Any citizen can purchase urban properties in Brazil, including foreigners.

Is it hard to buy property in Brazil? ›

Buying real estate in the urban areas of Brazil is a relatively secure investment. Brazil has a safe and organized property registration system and a well-developed real estate market. However, there are some precautions and provisions to be taken so the deal will run smoothly.

What is the average price of a house in Brazil? ›

$165,839. The average Brazil home value is $165,839, up 5.4% over the past year.

Is Brazil a good place to invest in property? ›

With its warm climate, strong infrastructure and affordable prices, it is a great place to live and retire. Likewise, many consider Brazil an ideal spot for a second home or investment property.

Can a US citizen move to Brazil? ›

If you want to reside in Brazil legally, you must apply for and obtain a visa before traveling to the country, or you will be denied entry by Brazilian authorities. Depending on the reason why you want to move to Brazil, you need to choose a type of VITEM visa and submit the application for that type of visa.

Can a US citizen buy a home in Brazil? ›

Yes, foreign citizens can buy real estate in Brazil, and they actually buy a LOT. Currency exchange favorable to strong currencies such as the dollar and the euro is just one of the many reasons why buying properties in Brazil is an opportunity for foreign citizens.

Can I live in Brazil permanently? ›

The Permanent Residence Visa for Foreigners in Brazil can be obtained in a variety of situations. It can be originated from different types of visas, which may vary according to your specific case.

Do you pay property taxes in Brazil? ›

Property taxes

Imposto de Transmissão de Bens Imóveis Inter Vivos (ITBI) is a property tax levied at the transfer of immovable property, with rates also varying based on the municipality where the property is located. The ITBI of up to 3% is payable by the acquirer on sales or transfers of real estate.

Why are houses in Brazil so cheap? ›

This can be explained by two main reasons. First, Brazil is a “continental country” with lots of land. Thus, this explains the greater availability of homes and land at a relatively low price. The second reason to explain the relatively low cost of homes here is the currency exchange.

Is it cheaper to live in Brazil or USA? ›

The average cost of living in Brazil ($675) is 69% less expensive than in the United States ($2213). Brazil ranked 133rd vs 5th for the United States in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.

Is $1000 a lot in Brazil? ›

If you are coming to Brazil with $1,000 ( I am assuming it's USD) for a week, then it's really good money. You will be able to stay at a quality hotel and go to some good restaurants. Furthermore, if you are going to stay away from the larger urban areas, your money will last longer.

Is it more expensive to live in the US or Brazil? ›

Cost of living in United States is 102% more expensive than in Brazil.

What city is best to buy a house in Brazil? ›

Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are by far the first choices for international investors, but other capitals such as Fortaleza, Sao Luis, Campo Grande, Belem, Curitiba, Recife, Natal, Porto Alegre, Florianopolis, and Palmas have been consistently well regarded as prime markets.

Where is best to live in Brazil? ›

Top 10 Places to Live in Brazil
  1. Rio de Janeiro. Best Place to Live for English Speakers. ...
  2. São Paulo. Best Place for Expats. ...
  3. Bela Horizonte. Great Place for Couples. ...
  4. Fortaleza. Great Place for Expats. ...
  5. Salvador. Best Place for Solo Travelers/Groups. ...
  6. Curitiba. Great Place for Couples. ...
  7. Manaus. Best Place for Groups. ...
  8. Brasilia.

What are the risks of investing in Brazil? ›

However, investment in Brazil remains risky because of some negative factors including cumbersome and complex taxation, bureaucratic delays and heavy and rigid labour legislation.

Is Brazil friendly to the US? ›

U.S.-BRAZIL RELATIONS

The United States and Brazil enjoy deep and broad political and economic relations. Following Brazil's Independence in 1822, the United States was one of the first countries to recognize Brazil, in 1824.

How safe is Brazil for U.S. citizens? ›

Violent crime such as mugging, armed robbery and carjacking is common. These occur more often in large cities and during festivals, such as Carnaval. Don't go out alone at night. Avoid isolated areas, including beaches.

Is health care free in Brazil? ›

Brazil provides free, universal access to medical care to anyone legally living in the country. However, this means that waiting times can be long at public hospitals, especially those in more rural areas where facilities are oversubscribed.

How long can a US citizen live in Brazil? ›

Temporary residence for U.S. citizens in Brazil

Generally, a U.S. citizen has 2 years to stay in Brazil temporarily, but this term can vary to more or less time. In addition, each visa has its form of residence permit modality.

How long can I stay in Brazil as a US citizen? ›

The visit visa will be issued to foreigners traveling to Brazil for staying up to 90 days without purposes of immigration or the exercise of paid activity (daily allowances, artistic paychecks, compensation or other travel expenses are allowed).

How long can a US resident stay in Brazil? ›

Stay less than 180 days within a 12-month period. Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page. Hold proof of sufficient funds.

Can I collect Social Security and live in Brazil? ›

Generally, people who are not U.S. citizens may get U.S. Social Security benefits while outside the United States only if they meet certain requirements. However, under the agreement you can receive benefits as long as you live in Brazil, regardless of your nationality.

How hard is it for Americans to move to Brazil? ›

Yes. You can move to Brazil from the US as long as you have the correct visa in place. While US citizens don't need a visa to enter Brazil for tourism or short term business trips, if you intend to establish residence in Brazil you'll need to get your visa arranged in advance¹.

Can I get a residency in Brazil if I buy a property? ›

Brazil offers what is termed “permanent residency” to those who invest in businesses or real estate above a certain sum immediately upon application approval. In practice, however, the residence permit is not permanent but, rather, contingent on the investor maintaining the qualifying investment.

Is property in Brazil expensive? ›

In 2014, a square metre in Brazil typically cost the equivalent of US$3,040. Six years later in 2020, it costs almost 45% less – US$1,344. Brazil real estate also offers a cheaper option compared to property worldwide.

How much is a condo fee in Brazil? ›

As a rule, condo fees are inexpensive, for example, for a typical condo with a swimming pool and basic amenities, the fee is less than $80 per month.

Do foreigners pay taxes in Brazil? ›

Residents of Brazil are taxed on their worldwide income, and non-residents are taxed exclusively at source on their Brazilian-sourced income. The source of income is determined by the place where the income payer is located, irrespective of where the work is performed.

Is it worth it to move to Brazil? ›

Brazil's economy is growing at one of the fastest rates in the world. This can be seen in the vast improvements to infrastructure that are currently taking place, and in the buildings that are constantly being constructed. This suggests exciting things ahead for Brazil and makes this a great time to move to Brazil.

Where do the rich live in Brazil? ›

São Paulo is a city of standouts, where the native mega-wealthy class has the limelight versus a milieu of absolute poverty. With no less than 1500 bank branches & 70 extravagant shopping centers, the prosperous side of this metropolis lives to spend.

How many Americans live in Brazil? ›

There are an estimated 70,000 Americans living in Brazil.

There are plenty of reasons why so many Americans love living in Brazil, the lifestyle, the beaches, and the laid back culture to name but a few.

Is Brazil good to retire? ›

Compared to many other countries, Brazil has a relatively low cost of living, which can be a major advantage for retirees on a fixed income. The warm climate and beautiful beaches are also a major draw for retirees looking for a more tropical lifestyle.

How much money do you need to live comfortably in Brazil? ›

The cost of living is affordable. Housing, food, and transportation costs are significantly lower in Brazil than in other major cities. This means you can live comfortably on a monthly budget of $784 – $2416 (3,920 BRL – 12,080 BRL) per month.

What is considered rich in Brazil? ›

The Brazilian upper class comprises individuals who earn more than $727.87 monthly up to millionaires and billionaires, as defined by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística, IBGE after its Portuguese acronym).

How far does US money go in Brazil? ›

The U.S. dollar will go far in these 20 international cities
LocationCurrency ExchangeAverage Cost of Daily Expenses
Buenos Aires, Argentina1 USD = 27.1010 ARS$64
Bangkok, Thailand1 USD = 32.9077 THB$65
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil1 USD = 3.76620 BRL$65
Banff, Canada1 USD = 1.32857 CAD$71
16 more rows
Jul 9, 2018

How far does $50 go in Brazil? ›

Are you overpaying your bank?
Conversion rates US Dollar / Brazilian Real
50 USD246.36250 BRL
100 USD492.72500 BRL
250 USD1231.81250 BRL
500 USD2463.62500 BRL
8 more rows

How much is a Big Mac in Brazil? ›

The so-called Big Mac Index is regarded as an indicator for the purchasing power of an economy. In Guatemala, it was estimated that a Big Mac would cost an average of 3.36 U.S. dollars, while the average price for a Big Mac burger in Brazil amounted to approximately 4.25 U.S. dollars in July 2022.

Is Brazil as cheap as Mexico? ›

The average cost of living in Brazil ($675) is 14% less expensive than in Mexico ($786). Brazil ranked 133rd vs 111th for Mexico in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.

Is it cheaper to live in Brazil or Costa Rica? ›

The average cost of living in Brazil ($675) is 32% less expensive than in Costa Rica ($1000). Brazil ranked 133rd vs 73rd for Costa Rica in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.

What's the safest city in Brazil? ›

In the southern region of Brazil, on an idyllic island just off the coast sits Florianopolis, arguably Brazil's best place to be. Sunset in the city of Florianopolis, Brasil's safest city.

Where is the safest place to retire in Brazil? ›

Curitiba can be compared to the previously mentioned Porto Alegre, where you can feel a strong European vibe and heritage. This city is considered to be very safe and has one of the highest standards of living in Brazil. Indeed, Curitiba regularly ranks amongst the safest cities in Brazil to live in.

Where do most expats live in Brazil? ›

São Paulo – São Paulo is undoubtedly the number one spot for expats who are first moving to Brazil. It's South America's largest city with a population over 12 million.

Why do people want to live in Brazil? ›

Brazil is a unique mix of natural wonders, great food, vibrant culture and a dynamic economy. It has started to offer visas for the growing army of digital nomads and with warm people and even warmer weather, Brazil offers plenty of opportunities for international professionals.

Is the quality of life good in Brazil? ›

Brazil performs well in a limited number of dimensions of well-being relative to other countries in the Better Life Index. Brazil outperforms the average in civic engagement. It underperforms the average in income, jobs, education, health, social connections and life satisfaction.

What is everyday life like in Brazil? ›

Brazilian families tend to be tight-knit, warm, and loving. They generally enjoy each other's company and prefer spending time together than privately. In Brazilian culture, men are usually allowed more freedom than women. Brazilian girls have less freedom than girls from most European and North American countries.

What are the major threats to Brazil? ›

But one of the biggest issues affecting the land and Brazilian environment is the ecological issues in the Amazon. Deforestation, as well as illegal poaching and illegal wildlife trade, plague the Amazon. The water is polluted by severe oil spills and the land is slowly degrading from mining.

How does Brazil make money? ›

The private sector is composed of various sub-sectors, including travel and tourism, financial services, transportation, repairs, and retail sales. The energy industry plays a significant role in Brazil's economy. The country is one of the top 10 largest oil producers in the world.

Which country invests the most in Brazil? ›

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the United States had the second largest single-country stock of FDI by final ownership (UBO) representing 18 percent of all FDI in Brazil ($117 billion) behind only the Netherlands' 23 percent ($147.7 billion) in 2019, the latest year with available data, while ...

How can I get permanent residency in Brazil? ›

To qualify for Brazil's permanent residency for investors, applicants must invest either in Brazilian real estate or businesses. Business investment options: BRL 500,000 ($93,000) investment in a business in Brazil.

Can I get Brazilian citizenship without living in Brazil? ›

A person born outside Brazil of a Brazilian parent also acquires Brazilian nationality at birth if: The Brazilian parent is in the service of the Brazilian government; or. The person is registered with a Brazilian consular office; or. The person later moves to Brazil and confirms one's nationality before a federal ...

How long can foreigners stay in Brazil? ›

The visit visa will be issued to foreigners traveling to Brazil for staying up to 90 days without purposes of immigration or the exercise of paid activity (daily allowances, artistic paychecks, compensation or other travel expenses are allowed).

Does Brazil allow dual citizenship? ›

That is, the national legal system allows Brazilians to have dual or multiple nationalities ONLY if the other nationality(ies) arise from birth in a foreign territory (original nationality), of foreign ancestry (original nationality) or naturalization by imposition of a foreign rule.

Can I stay in Brazil if I marry a Brazilian? ›

A foreigner who is married to a Brazilian citizen may apply for a permanent visa or permanent residence to establish and live in Brazil. In order to apply for a permanent visa based on Marriage, it is necessary that he/she is married in fact, and legally with a brazilian spouse.

How much money do I need to move to Brazil? ›

You can live in Brazil, for around $784 a month for all expenses on a tight budget or $2416 a month if you want to live much more luxuriously. $784 – $2416 (3,920 BRL – 12,080 BRL) Per Month.

Does Brazil recognize US marriage? ›

Marriages performed in the United States are valid in Brazil. They just need to be registered - first, with the Brazilian Consulate, and then, with a notary office. If you're not a Brazilian resident, you'll file your marriage certificate with the First Notary Office of the Federal District (Brasília).

Does the US allow dual citizenship? ›

If you qualify for dual citizenship, you must first immigrate to the U.S. Then you must become a permanent U.S. resident before being eligible for U.S. citizenship. Learn more about immigrating to the U.S. And find out how to become a permanent resident.

Can a US citizen travel to Brazil without a passport? ›

You will need: A valid U.S. passport. U.S. citizens do not need a visa if they are traveling to Brazil for tourism, business, transit, artistic or sport activities, with no intention of establishing residence.

Do US citizens need a visa for Brazil in 2023? ›

Brazil will again require travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia and Japan to complete an entry visa for travel to the country. The renewed requirement will go into effect from October 1, 2023.

Can you live in Brazil without speaking Portuguese? ›

20. Learn (the right) Portuguese. Not too many people in Brazil speak English, and certainly not enough for you to get by without learning the language. Make sure to learn Brazilian Portuguese though – and no, you won't be able to get by with Spanish, particularly when dealing with local bureaucrats or the police.

What happens if you overstay in Brazil? ›

If you overstay your visa in Brazil, you will be fined at least 120 Brazilian reals per day and given a 6-month ban once you leave. If the authorities in Brazil catch you overstaying your visa, you will be fined at least 120 Brazilian reals per day by the Polícia Federal.

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