Brazilian Citizens in Argentina: Complete Immigration Guide
Brazilians enjoy the easiest immigration as founding Mercosur members. Immediate permanent residency with no criminal record required and the largest foreign community.
Special Agreement
Mercosur Full Member
As a founding Mercosur member (1991), Brazilians receive immediate permanent residency in Argentina with the fastest processing and fewest requirements of any nationality.
- Immediate permanent residency (not temporary)
- No criminal record check required
- Work immediately upon arrival
- Citizenship in just 2 years
- Can apply with just ID card (no passport needed)
- Family reunification expedited
- No income requirements
Visa Options
Tourist Entry
No visa requiredBrazilians enter visa-free with passport or national ID
Digital Nomad Visa
RecommendedAvailable but Mercosur residency is superior
Work Visa
SimplifiedImmediate work authorization with Mercosur residency
Mercosur Visa
Best OptionBrazil is a founding Mercosur member
Required Documents
Passport Validity
Valid at entry
Criminal Record Check
Not required
Not required for Mercosur full members
Birth Certificate
Required (with apostille)
Additional Documents
- • Brazilian ID (RG) acceptable instead of passport
- • Proof of address in Argentina
- • Two passport photos
Path to Residency
Easiest Route
Mercosur Permanent Residency
Timeline
Immediate permanent status. Citizenship in 2 years.
Steps:
- 1Enter Argentina (90 days visa-free with RG or passport)
- 2Gather documents (no criminal record needed!)
- 3Apply for Mercosur permanent residency at migraciones
- 4Receive precaria immediately (can work right away)
- 5Pick up permanent card in 30-45 days
- 6Apply for citizenship after 2 years residency
Tips:
- •You can use your Brazilian RG instead of passport for entry
- •No criminal record check required - this saves weeks
- •Learn Spanish ASAP - Brazilian Portuguese speakers adapt quickly
- •Belgrano has the largest Brazilian neighborhood
- •Many Brazilian professionals work in IT, hospitality, and business
- •Argentines love Brazilian culture - you'll feel welcome
- •Consider getting a CUIT for business activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Brazilians need a visa for Argentina?
No visa required. Brazilians can enter with just their RG (national ID card) or passport for up to 90 days, renewable to 180 days.
What's the difference between Mercosur full vs associate for Brazilians?
As a full Mercosur member, Brazilians get immediate PERMANENT residency (not temporary), no criminal record requirement, and the fastest path to citizenship.
How big is the Brazilian community in Argentina?
The largest foreign community - over 250,000 Brazilians live in Argentina, with significant populations in Buenos Aires (especially Belgrano), Misiones, and border regions.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
While many Brazilians get by with Portuguese initially, learning Spanish is highly recommended for work and daily life. The languages are similar but distinct enough to cause confusion.
Can I work immediately upon arrival?
Yes! Once you apply for Mercosur residency, you receive a 'precaria' document that authorizes you to work immediately while your permanent card is processed.