How to Replace the Expired CIE/CRNM Permanente
If you have a permanent residence card in Brazil—whether the old permanent CIE or the CRNM—and it has already expired or is about to expire, this is one of the most common concerns among foreigners who have lived in Brazil for a long time. The good news is that the process is straightforward, as long as you know what to expect.
Once Law No. 13,445/2017 (the Brazilian Migration Law) became effective, the permanent visa category was replaced by the residence authorization system. The permanent CIE has been replaced by the CRNM—the National Migration Registry Card—the identity document currently issued to foreign nationals holding an indefinite-term residence authorization in Brazil. This article explains exactly what you need to do, which documents should be presented, and whether you meet the legal requirements before booking an appointment at the Federal Police.
The applicant must appear in person at the Federal Police station corresponding to the jurisdiction of the applicant’s address in Brazil. Attendance in person is mandatory, as it is necessary to collect biometric data and verify documents, which cannot be done remotely.
Required Documents
In general, the applicant must schedule an appointment in advance through the Federal Police’s online booking system. In addition to the appointment confirmation, the following are typically required:
- Completed standard application forms;
- Payment of the applicable fee;
- Valid international travel document (passport).
Further paperwork may be requested, in accordance with the specific circumstances of the case.
Upon completion of the procedure, the expired CIE permanente will be replaced by the CRNM, the new identity document issued to foreign nationals holding residence permit for an indeterminate period.
What you need to know about reasons that can result in the cancellation of your residence permit?
As part of the replacement process, the Federal Police will verify whether the applicant has incurred any of the reasons for cancellation or loss of residence authorization provided under Brazilian law.
Pursuant to Article 135 of Decree No. 9,199/2017, residence authorization shall be revoked in the following circumstances:
- Cessation of the grounds on which the residence authorization was originally granted;
- Obtainment of a new residence authorization on a different legal basis;
- Absence from Brazil for a period exceeding two (2) years without a justified reason on record.
It should be noted that although this provision refers specifically to residence authorization, the same requirements apply to the replacement of the CIE permanente.
You may also be interested in our article on the procedure for applying for a residence authorization based on family reunification.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
For guidance specific to your situation, please contact us.
