On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form Naturalization?)
- Context and workflow
- Requirements snapshot
- Eligibility Category Codes
- Failure prevention (What causes Form Naturalization rejections?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form Naturalization?)
- Checklist (What is the Form Naturalization checklist?)
- Processing times
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form Naturalization have?)
- Choose your path
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form Naturalization?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form Naturalization?)
- Edge cases and variations
- Scenarios
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
- Visual references
Quick summary
#Review the official instructions for eligibility requirements.
BRAZILIAN-CITIZENSHIP: Brazilian Citizenship (Naturalization)
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form Naturalization?)
#Check the official Naturalization instructions to confirm statutory requirements and required evidence. For related guidance, see the Form NATURALIZATION page.
Context and workflow
#Processing times for Naturalization depend on the case type and current workload. Always consult the official PF processing time tool for the most accurate information.
Why this matters
- This form acts as a cross-check point: details here must match other forms and supporting documents.
- Inconsistencies often trigger returns or follow-up requests because they create uncertainty in the case record.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Initiates the naturalization process.
- Receipt protocol number (protocolo) is issued upon submission.
- Applicants may need to provide biometrics at a Federal Police (Polícia Federal) office.
- Successful applicants receive a CRNM card issuance.
Who uses it
Review the official instructions for eligibility requirements. Common filers: Standard Residence, Marriage to Brazilian Citizen, Special Naturalization.
When it is used
- BRAZILIAN-CITIZENSHIP: Brazilian Citizenship (Naturalization)
- When applying for Brazilian-citizenship — Naturalization is typically required as part of the application
- After filing Naturalization — CRNM-REGISTRATION may be the next step (Must be registered resident first)
- When filing Naturalization alongside CPF-APPLICATION (CPF is required for naturalization application)
Requirements snapshot
#- Supporting documents must establish identity, relationship, and required physical presence.
Eligibility Category Codes
#Eligibility information for this form. Confirm your category in the official instructions before filing.
This is a shortlist of common categories. The official instructions include many more.
| Code | Who applies |
|---|---|
| General | Review the official instructions for eligibility requirements. |
| Eligibility | This form is used by applicants filing with PF. |
Failure prevention (What causes Form Naturalization rejections?)
#Substantive weaknesses
- Insufficient evidence of Portuguese proficiency.
- Inaccurate or conflicting employment history.
- Lack of documentation for financial stability.
- To avoid filing before meeting continuous residence or physical presence: Verify you meet the 4-year (or 1-year if marriage-based) requirement before filing.
- To avoid missing criminal background clearance from home country: Request a criminal background check from your country of origin well in advance; it may need apostille or consular legalization.
What you need (What do you need for Form Naturalization?)
#- The current edition of Naturalization
- Certified copies of identity documents
- Criminal background checks (Brazil and home country)
- Proof of Portuguese proficiency (CELPE-Bras or interview)
- Tax returns and proof of income
- Marriage certificate (registered in Brazil)
- Spouse's Brazilian identity documents
- Criminal background checks
- Evidence of statelessness or proof of relevant service to Brazil
- CRNM card (if applicable)
Checklist (What is the Form Naturalization checklist?)
#- Access the most recent Naturalization form and its accompanying instructions directly from the official PF website.
- Review the Naturalization instructions for statutory requirements and required evidence
- Gather proof of citizenship, relationship, and required presence
- Complete all required sections of Naturalization
- Sign, date, and submit Naturalization with all required supporting evidence
Sources for this section
Processing times
#| Category | Processing time |
|---|---|
| Standard (Mail/Drop box) | 5 to 10 daysas of February 2026 |
- Processing time for Naturalization under "Standard (Mail/Drop box)": 5 to 10 days (as of February 2026).
- Processing times for Naturalization vary by category and processing location. Verify current processing times with the issuing authority.
- Processing times differ significantly by eligibility category. Initial applications, renewals, and replacements each go through different adjudication queues, and some categories consistently take longer than others.
- Processing times for this form vary by PF office and current workload. Verify current processing times with PF.
- While pending: track your case status using your protocol number, respond promptly to any requests for additional documents, and update your contact information with PF if it changes.
Where to file
#Submit your application at the designated PF office, embassy, or consulate. Check the official website for the location with jurisdiction over your place of residence.
Submit application
Submit your application at the PF office or designated embassy/consulate in your country of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct location.
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official PF website before submitting. For related guidance, see Form RER-VISA.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form naturalization. Check the official fee schedule for the current amount. | See official schedule |
| Biometrics Services FeeA biometrics fee may be required depending on your category. Check the official fee schedule. | See official schedule |
Can the Form Naturalization fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
PF will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see brazilian-citizenship.
Fees change; always verify on PF.
Form sections (What sections does Form Naturalization have?)
#Personal Information
Biographical details of the applicant.
- Full name as shown on CRNM and passport
- Date of birth, nationality, and place of birth
- CRNM number and CPF number
Residence History
Documentation of your continuous residence in Brazil.
- Dates of residence in Brazil (entry date, address history)
- CRNM card showing registration dates
- Evidence of continuous physical presence (utility bills, tax returns)
Background and Character
Criminal and character clearance documentation.
- Brazilian criminal background check (Federal and state police)
- Home country criminal background check (apostilled or legalized)
- Declaration of good conduct
Financial and Employment
Proof of economic self-sufficiency.
- Employment contract or business registration
- Recent tax returns (Declaração de Imposto de Renda)
- Bank statements or proof of income
Choose your path
#Choose your path based on your eligibility category. Each block summarizes who qualifies, what to file, common mistakes, and typical processing time.
Standard Residence (4+ Years)
NATURALIZACAO-ORDINARIA
Foreign nationals who have maintained 4 or more years of continuous legal residence in Brazil, with financial self-sufficiency and Portuguese proficiency.
File with:
- CRNM card
- Criminal background checks (Brazil and home country)
- Proof of Portuguese proficiency (CELPE-Bras or interview)
- Tax returns and proof of income
Common mistakes:
- Filing before meeting the 4-year continuous residence requirement
- Extended absences resetting the residence clock
Typical processing: 12-24 months
Marriage to Brazilian Citizen
NATURALIZACAO-ORDINARIA-CASAMENTO
Foreign nationals married to a Brazilian citizen who have maintained at least 1 year of continuous legal residence in Brazil.
File with:
- Marriage certificate (registered in Brazil)
- CRNM card
- Spouse's Brazilian identity documents
- Criminal background checks
Common mistakes:
- Not registering the foreign marriage certificate in Brazil before filing
Typical processing: 12-18 months
Special Naturalization
NATURALIZACAO-EXTRAORDINARIA
Stateless persons, or individuals who have performed relevant services to Brazil, may qualify under special provisions with reduced or waived residence requirements.
File with:
- Evidence of statelessness or proof of relevant service to Brazil
- CRNM card (if applicable)
- Supporting documentation from relevant Brazilian authority
Common mistakes:
- Insufficient documentation of the qualifying special circumstance
Typical processing: 12-24 months
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Filing before meeting continuous residence or physical presence | Rejection | Verify you meet the 4-year (or 1-year if marriage-based) requirement before filing. |
| Missing criminal background clearance from home country | Delay | Request a criminal background check from your country of origin well in advance; it may need apostille or consular legalization. |
| Insufficient proof of Portuguese proficiency | Delay | Prepare for the language assessment. Formal certificates (CELPE-Bras) strengthen the application. |
| Incomplete employment or financial documentation | Delay | Include tax returns, employment contracts, or business registration proving financial self-sufficiency. |
Examples (What are examples for Form Naturalization?)
#- Common weakness: Applicant forgets to include proof of Portuguese proficiency, delaying the process.
- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with certified copies of all identity documents, proof of residency, and evidence of Portuguese proficiency, resulting in a smooth processing experience.
- Strong application: Foreign nationals who have maintained 4 or more years of continuous legal reside submits with required evidence; receives National Migration Registry Card (CRNM — Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório) in approximately 12-24 months.
- Strong application: Foreign nationals married to a Brazilian citizen who have maintained at least 1 submits with required evidence; receives National Migration Registry Card (CRNM — Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório) in approximately 12-18 months.
- Strong application: Stateless persons, or individuals who have performed relevant services to Brazil submits with required evidence; receives National Migration Registry Card (CRNM — Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório) in approximately 12-24 months.
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form Naturalization?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Approval is not automatic even if you meet the basic eligibility criteria
- You must meet all statutory requirements including residency, physical presence, and good moral character where applicable
Edge cases and variations
#- If you are asked to submit or update Naturalization, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
Scenarios
#A German resident who has lived in Brazil for 5 years, is married to a Brazilian citizen, and speaks fluent Portuguese applies for naturalization with complete documentation.
The application is approved in approximately 12-18 months. The applicant takes the oath and receives Brazilian citizenship.
Meeting all requirements and having complete documentation significantly speeds up the process.
An applicant files for naturalization after 3 years of residence, not meeting the 4-year minimum.
The application is rejected. The applicant must wait another year and refile.
Verify the exact residence requirement for your category before filing.
A long-term resident applies but cannot provide a criminal background check from their home country because the document is expired.
The application is delayed for months while the applicant obtains a fresh background check and has it legalized.
Start gathering documents from your home country early; international document authentication takes time.
Next steps
#- Receive a receipt protocol number (protocolo) upon submission.
- Schedule and attend a biometrics appointment at a Federal Police (Polícia Federal) office, if required.
- Await the decision on the naturalization application.
- If approved, receive a CRNM card issuance.
- Complete any additional steps as instructed by the Federal Police.
Verification
#This guide is based on official PF instructions for Naturalization and is updated with changes in form editions or filing rules. Always confirm current requirements on the official PF website.
Resources
#Visual references
#Naturalization quick reference guide PDF
FAQs
What other forms are typically filed together with Naturalization?
Examine the instructions specific to your immigration category to identify the forms that need to be submitted concurrently.
What are the most common errors when completing Naturalization, and what happens if it is rejected?
Common issues with Naturalization include: • Failing to account for all absences from the country during the qualifying period • Incomplete criminal history disclosure • Missing evidence of language or knowledge requirements • Residency calculation errors Track all travel outside the country and verify your residency timeline before filing.
Do I need to file Naturalization if I'm only updating my address or contact information?
Consult the official Naturalization instructions to gain comprehensive guidance tailored to your unique immigration case and circumstances.
Do I need to provide a mailing address for Naturalization?
You need a reliable mailing address for notices and card delivery. If you do not have a stable address, PF allows alternatives (e.g., a representative's address or safe mailing options) per official rules — review the instructions for your situation.
What happens after I submit Naturalization?
After submitting Naturalization, PF will issue a Confirmation of receipt confirming acceptance. You may then be scheduled for biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence requests depending on your case. You can monitor your case status online using the receipt number from your notice.
What are common mistakes when filing Naturalization?
Common mistakes include submitting incomplete forms, missing required signatures, paying incorrect fees, and failing to include all required supporting documents. Even minor errors can cause significant delays or outright rejection of your application. Double-check every section, verify fee amounts on the official PF schedule, and review the instructions thoroughly before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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