The VITEM XIV retirement visa broadly requires around US$2,000 a month of pension income transferred to a Brazilian account; it grants an initial two-year residency that is renewable and can lead to permanent residency.
A few things to line up early:
Visa rules change often — treat this as a starting point and confirm the latest official requirements before you plan.
Remember: buying a home and gaining the right to live there are usually separate steps. See how ownership works in Brazil, and what it costs to live there in our cost-of-retiring guide.
Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income through the monthly 'Carne-Leao' self-assessment at progressive rates up to 27.5%, so a foreign pension is taxable — though over-65s get an extra monthly exemption and the UK treaty gives relief. Keep good records and take advice.
Brazil's free public SUS system covers residents including foreigners but is stretched, so most expats use private hospitals — excellent in the big cities — with insurance from roughly US$40-200 a month depending on age and cover. Quality is high in Sao Paulo, Rio and the south. Crime rates are higher and vary sharply by neighbourhood, so local knowledge matters; Portuguese is the language with limited English, and driving is on the right.
Florianopolis for beaches and a gentler subtropical pace, Rio de Janeiro for classic coastal city life, the sunny Northeast around Natal and Fortaleza for warmth and value, and Sao Paulo for top healthcare and amenities.
Thinking seriously about Brazil?
Two honest Brits, a private call, and straight answers — see if a freehold home abroad is a fit for you.
See if you qualify →