Passport renewal in Brazil
Renewing a Brazilian passport involves completing an online application form, paying the associated fee, and then scheduling and attending an appointment at a Polícia Federal unit to submit documents and capture biometrics. The new passport is typically issued after the appointment.
Most applicants are advised to start the renewal process several months before their current passport expires. This allows ample time for booking an appointment at a Polícia Federal unit, which can sometimes have waiting lists, and accounts for the processing time required after the appointment.
Start 90 days ahead
This lead time accounts for potential waiting periods for appointment scheduling at Polícia Federal units and the subsequent processing time after the appointment. Starting well in advance helps avoid last-minute complications.
The process
- 1Fill out the electronic application form for a new passport on the Polícia Federal website.
- 2Generate and pay the GRU (Guia de Recolhimento da União) fee.
- 3Schedule an appointment at a Polícia Federal unit through their online system.
- 4Attend the scheduled appointment with all required documents. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) will be collected at this time.
- 5Track the status of the new passport online.
- 6Pick up the new passport at the same Polícia Federal unit where the application was submitted, once notified that it is ready.
What to bring
- Original and photocopy of the previous passport (even if expired).
- Brazilian identity document (e.g., RG - Registro Geral).
- CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) number.
- Proof of payment of the GRU fee.
- Proof of voter registration and proof of having voted in the last elections, or justification for absence, or a certificate of electoral discharge.
- Military service discharge document for male applicants between 18 and 45 years old.
- For naturalized Brazilians, the naturalization certificate.
- For applicants who changed names, official documentation proving the change (e.g., marriage certificate, court order).
Who handles it
Polícia Federal (Federal Police)
The current fee for issuing a common passport is R$257.25. This fee is paid via the GRU (Guia de Recolhimento da União) generated during the online application process. Fees are subject to change and should be confirmed on the Polícia Federal's official website.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure all required documents are original and valid, and bring photocopies as well.
- Carefully review the electronic application form for any errors before submission, as corrections can cause delays.
- Verify the specific requirements for minors, as these include additional documentation and parental consent procedures.
- Be aware that appointments can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so booking in advance is advisable.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Other documents in Brazil
Passport renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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