On this page
- Overview (What is Form Residence Renewal?)
- Context and workflow
- Do you need this visa?
- Requirements snapshot
- Eligibility Category Codes
- Failure prevention (What causes Form Residence Renewal rejections?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form Residence Renewal?)
- Checklist (What is the Form Residence Renewal checklist?)
- Processing times
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form Residence Renewal have?)
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form Residence Renewal?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form Residence Renewal?)
- Scenarios
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Overview (What is Form Residence Renewal?)
#Establishes or verifies authorization to work. Check the official Residence Renewal instructions to confirm your eligibility category
Context and workflow
#May have renewal or extension requirements. Processing time for Residence Renewal varies by case type and current workload — typically check the official PF processing time tool
Where it fits in the workflow
- Often part of a larger immigration benefit process
- May have renewal or extension requirements
- Connects to employment and status maintenance
Who uses it
Individuals with temporary nonimmigrant status who want to extend their stay or change to another eligible status use Residence Renewal. Apply before your current status expires.
When it is used
- When you need to extend your current nonimmigrant status before it expires
- When you want to change from one nonimmigrant classification to another eligible status
- If your current status allows extension or change under the official instructions
- Vitem-work — Renew temporary residence
- Residence-permanent — Renew permanent residence card
- After filing Residence Renewal — CRNM-REGISTRATION may be the next step (Renewal updates existing CRNM registration)
Do you need this visa?
#Requirements snapshot
#- Extend your authorized stay in your current eligible nonimmigrant category.
- Change from one nonimmigrant status to another eligible status (change of status), if permitted.
- In some situations, request reinstatement; review the official instructions for details.
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 | Individuals with temporary nonimmigrant status who want to extend their stay or change to another eligible status use Residence Renewal. Apply before your current status expires. |
| Eligibility | This form is used by applicants filing with PF. |
Failure prevention (What causes Form Residence Renewal rejections?)
#Substantive weaknesses
- Insufficient supporting evidence
- Inconsistencies between forms and documents
- Failure to address all eligibility criteria
- To avoid filing renewal after current status has already expired: File before your current status expires. Set a calendar reminder at least 30 days prior to expiration.
- To avoid missing proof of continued eligibility (e.g., expired employment contract): Obtain an updated employment letter, enrollment confirmation, or family relationship documentation before filing.
What you need (What do you need for Form Residence Renewal?)
#- The current edition of Residence Renewal
- Current I-94 or proof of present nonimmigrant status
- Evidence of eligibility for the requested classification or extension
- Passport-style photographs if required by the instructions
Checklist (What is the Form Residence Renewal checklist?)
#- Download the current Residence Renewal and instructions from the official PF website
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of Residence Renewal
- Sign, date, and submit Residence Renewal with all required supporting evidence
Example receipt notice for Residence Renewal
Processing times
#| Category | Processing time |
|---|---|
| Standard (Mail/Drop box) | 5 to 10 daysas of February 2026 |
- Processing time for Residence Renewal under "Standard (Mail/Drop box)": 5 to 10 days (as of February 2026).
- Processing times for Residence Renewal 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.
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 residence-permanent.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form residence renewal. 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 Residence Renewal 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 vitem-work.
Fees change; always verify on PF.
Form sections (What sections does Form Residence Renewal have?)
#Personal Information
Identification details from your current registration.
- Full name as shown on CRNM card
- Date of birth and nationality
- CRNM registration number
- Passport number and expiration date
Current Status Details
Information about your existing residence authorization.
- Type of residence permit (temporary or permanent)
- Date of issuance and expiration date
- Issuing Federal Police office
Continued Eligibility Evidence
Documentation proving you still qualify for the residence status.
- Employment contract or letter from employer (for work-based residence)
- School enrollment confirmation (for student residence)
- Family relationship proof such as marriage or birth certificate (for family-based residence)
Contact and Address
Current contact details for the renewal.
- Current residential address in Brazil
- Phone number and email address
- Proof of address (utility bill or rental contract)
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Filing renewal after current status has already expired | Rejection | File before your current status expires. Set a calendar reminder at least 30 days prior to expiration. |
| Missing proof of continued eligibility (e.g., expired employment contract) | Delay | Obtain an updated employment letter, enrollment confirmation, or family relationship documentation before filing. |
| CRNM card lost or stolen and cannot be presented at renewal | Delay | File a police report (Boletim de Ocorrência) and request a replacement CRNM simultaneously with the renewal. |
| Address on file does not match current residence | Delay | Update your address with the Federal Police before or during the renewal appointment. Bring a utility bill or rental contract as proof. |
Examples (What are examples for Form Residence Renewal?)
#- Strong application: Applications with complete, organized supporting documents
- Strong application: Submissions that address all form sections thoroughly
- Strong application: Filings that anticipate and address potential concerns
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form Residence Renewal?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Filing does not automatically extend your status while the application is pending
- You may need to meet the eligibility requirements for the requested classification
Scenarios
#A tech worker on a 2-year VITEM-V temporary residence permit files for renewal 45 days before expiration, bringing an updated employment contract and all required documents to the Federal Police.
Renewal is approved in 20 business days. A new CRNM card is issued with an updated expiration date.
Filing early with complete documentation ensures no gap in legal status.
A student forgets to renew their residence permit and files 2 weeks after it has already expired.
The application is accepted but a fine (multa) is imposed, and a note is added to the immigration record which may complicate future applications.
Set calendar reminders well in advance. Late renewal is possible but costly and creates complications for future immigration benefits.
A permanent resident renewing their CRNM card cannot provide proof of physical presence in Brazil for the required period because they lived abroad for 18 months.
Renewal is denied and permanent residence status is revoked due to excessive absence.
Maintain records of your presence in Brazil (flight records, utility bills) and be aware of the maximum absence periods allowed under your status.
Next steps
#- Await receipt confirmation from the agency
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
- Keep copies of all submitted materials
Verification
#This guide is derived from official PF instructions for Residence Renewal and is updated when form editions or filing rules change. Always verify current requirements at the official PF website.
FAQs
Why does PF need the information requested on Residence Renewal?
Residence Renewal serves a specific purpose in the immigration process. Review the official instructions to understand how it applies to your situation.
What other forms are typically filed together with Residence Renewal?
After Residence Renewal is approved: CRNM-REGISTRATION (renewal updates existing CRNM registration). Review the official Residence Renewal instructions for your specific situation.
Do I need to file Residence Renewal if I'm only updating my address or contact information?
Address or contact updates may be handled through a dedicated form or through your online account, depending on the agency's procedures. Residence Renewal may not be required for simple address changes. Check the official instructions to see which form or process applies to your type of update.
What is Residence Renewal?
Residence Renewal is the Residence Permit Renewal Application.
Where can I file this form?
Check the official instructions for current filing addresses and methods.
How do I choose the correct eligibility category code on Residence Renewal?
Your eligibility category code determines your basis for filing Residence Renewal. Review the instructions for your specific eligibility category before starting. Review the official instructions to identify which category applies to your immigration status and situation.
Can I expedite my Residence Renewal application?
Expedited processing may be available in certain circumstances, such as severe financial loss, emergencies, or other qualifying criteria. Check the official guidance for Residence Renewal to see if your situation qualifies for an expedite request.
Can I file Residence Renewal together with other forms?
Depending on your eligibility category, Residence Renewal may be filed concurrently with other forms. Review the official instructions to see which forms can be submitted together in your situation.
Do I need to provide a mailing address for Residence Renewal?
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.
How long does it take to process Residence Renewal?
Processing time for Residence Renewal under "Standard (Mail/Drop box)": 5 to 10 days (as of February 2026). Processing times vary by eligibility category, filing location, and current workload. Check the PF processing times tool for the most current estimates for your specific category.
Can I request a fee waiver for Residence Renewal?
Fee waivers may be available for certain applicants who demonstrate financial hardship or meet specific criteria. Not all forms are eligible for fee waivers. Review the official instructions for Residence Renewal and the PF fee waiver policy to determine whether your situation qualifies.
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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