IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Brazil’s Federal Police are installing a new computer system, the implementation of which could cause delays for foreign nationals who need to register a work visa and obtain a Registro Nacional de Estrangeiro (RNE).

What does the change mean? Foreign nationals should anticipate possible delays in the post-arrival registration process. BAL has confirmed that the new system is being implemented at Federal Police offices throughout the country. Those in need of registering their visas and obtaining RNEs will not be able to make appointments during this time.

  • Implementation time frame:  The new system is expected to be implemented at Federal Police offices across the country in the next few weeks.
  • Visas/permits affected: Any work visa that requires post-arrival registration and Mercosur Temporary Residence applications.
  • Who is affected: Anyone applying for a visa that requires post-arrival registration or Mercosur Temporary Residence applicants.
  • Impact on processing times: The implementation of the new computer system is expected to cause delays in the post-arrival registration process because appointments will temporarily be unavailable.
  • Business impact: Businesses may need to adjust timelines and start dates.

Background: A number of work visas in Brazil require post-arrival registration. Once foreign nationals are registered with the Federal Police, they can obtain an RNE, which functions as an ID card. Appointments at Federal Police offices will not be available online or on a walk-in basis while the new computer system is being implemented. This is expected to cause delays for those who need to register visas over the next few weeks.

BAL Analysis: Employers and foreign nationals should anticipate delays in the post-arrival registration process while the new computer system is being implemented. Employers with questions about a specific case should contact their BAL professional.

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

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About Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP
Founded in 1980, Berry Appleman & Leiden (BAL) provides comprehensive global immigration services from seven offices across the U.S. and from offices in Geneva, London, Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Sydney. BAL manages global visa matters and customized application approaches for work permits, business visas, and residence permits in more than 100 countries. With a single cost center for worldwide operations, BAL offers centralized management with regional and local support for the complete spectrum of global immigration matters.