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VITEM VIII — Volunteer Service Visa (VITEM VIII — Serviço Voluntário)
VisasBrazilVITEM VIII — Volunteer Service Visa (VITEM VIII — Serviço Voluntário)
BrazilBrazil•South America
Open

VITEM VIII — Volunteer Service Visa (VITEM VIII — Serviço Voluntário)

Work Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Application Fee

100 USD

Stay Duration

30 days

Renewable

Yes

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Allowed

PR Pathway

No

Remote Work

Not Required

Official Information

Overview

Temporary visa for foreign nationals performing unpaid volunteer work for a Brazilian non-profit organization or entity linked to a foreign government, valid up to 2 years with renewal.

The VITEM VIII Volunteer Service Visa was established to provide a legal framework for foreign nationals wishing to contribute their time and skills to non-profit organizations in Brazil. It addresses the gap between casual tourism and formal employment, allowing individuals to engage in structured, unpaid service for NGOs, charities, and social projects. By regulating this activity, Brazil ensures that volunteer efforts are aligned with legitimate non-profit entities, preventing the misuse of visa categories for unauthorized work while encouraging international cooperation and social development.

This visa is designed for individuals who wish to perform unpaid volunteer work for Brazilian non-profit organizations or entities linked to foreign governments. The ideal applicant is someone motivated by altruism, social service, or professional development in the non-profit sector. What makes this visa distinctive is the strict prohibition against receiving any remuneration or maintaining an employment relationship within Brazil. Applicants must demonstrate acceptance by a host organization and provide proof of financial self-sufficiency and health insurance, emphasizing the commitment to purely charitable contributions.

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Must be performing unpaid volunteer work for a non-profit organization or entity linked to a foreign government.

Must have an invitation from a Brazilian non-profit organization.

Must not have an employment contract or receive any remuneration.

Must have sufficient financial resources or a guarantee of support from the host organization.

Must be at least 18 years old (generally).

Must have a valid passport.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

none or higher

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Completed and signed Visa Application Form (RER).

Valid passport.

Recent passport-sized photograph.

Criminal record certificate (apostilled).

Invitation letter from the Brazilian organization (notarized).

Proof of the organization's registration/public interest status in Brazil.

Declaration of financial responsibility from the host organization (covering maintenance, medical, and repatriation).

Proof of professional experience or qualifications (if applicable to the role).

Birth certificate (apostilled).

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Facilitates legal entry for social/humanitarian work.
  • Allows for stays up to 1 year.
  • Eligible dependents can apply for Family Reunion visas.
  • No requirement for a commercial investment.

Worth Knowing

  • Strictly prohibits any form of payment or employment relationship.
  • Requires the host organization to be a registered non-profit.
  • Mandatory Federal Police registration.
  • Must ensure the organization provides a comprehensive financial guarantee.

Application Process

1

Obtain acceptance letter: From Brazilian educational institution

2

Prepare documents: Gather all required documents

3

Complete visa application: Fill out visa application form

4

Submit to consulate: Apply at Brazilian embassy or consulate

5

Pay visa fee: Pay application fee

6

Receive visa: Visa valid for study duration

7

Register with Federal Police: Complete registration within 30 days if staying over 30 days

Application Forms

Student Visa Application Form—

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