Document apostillization rules to take effect, simplifying authentication

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Beginning Sunday, Brazilian government ministries and other local authorities will accept documents that are authenticated according to rules under the Hague Apostille Convention.

What does the change mean? The apostille process will simplify document authentication for immigration-related applicants, compared with the current legalization process, which can be lengthy and time-consuming.

• Implementation time frame: Aug. 14.
• Visas/permits affected: All work visas, residence permits and other applications requiring supporting documents issued by government authorities, such as marriage and birth certificates.
• Who is affected: Employers and individuals applying for Brazilian work visas and other permits, who are submitting supporting documents issued by foreign countries that are members of the Hague Convention.
• Impact on processing times: While the process will not affect the processing of visa and work permit applications, the switch to the apostille process should simplify document gathering before the application is submitted.

Background: Brazil announced in February that it would join the Hague Apostille Convention, a treaty that binds more than 100 signatory countries to uniform rules for authenticating official public documents. Under the rules, member countries recognize public documents whose signatures are authenticated by the designated competent government authorities in the country where the document was issued.

BAL Analysis: Brazil’s implementation of the Apostille Convention is a positive step toward simplifying procedures for employers, foreign employees and their family members in applying for work visas, permanent residency and other immigration benefits.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in Brazil. For additional information, please contact brazil@bal.com.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.