Can Brazilian Nationals Apply for the E-2 Visa?
Brazil is the largest economy in Latin America and has millions of citizens with strong ties to the United States, but Brazil does not have a qualifying Treaty of Commerce and Navigation with the U.S. — meaning Brazilian nationals cannot apply for the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa. However, Brazilian investors have several strong alternative pathways, and the addition of Portugal to the E-2 program in March 2025 has opened a particularly attractive dual-strategy route.
Get Started TodayWhy Brazilian nationals cannot apply for E-2
Brazil is the largest economy in Latin America and has millions of citizens with strong ties to the United States, but Brazil does not have a qualifying Treaty of Commerce and Navigation with the U.S. — meaning Brazilian nationals cannot apply for the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa. However, Brazilian investors have several strong alternative pathways, and the addition of Portugal to the E-2 program in March 2025 has opened a particularly attractive dual-strategy route.
Alternative U.S. investor visa pathways for Brazilian nationals
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa
Open to all nationalities. Requires $800,000 (TEA) or $1,050,000 investment. Leads directly to a U.S. green card. Brazilian nationals face no EB-5 backlog — unlike Indian and Chinese nationals — meaning approved petitions can result in faster green card issuance.
O-1 Visa — Extraordinary Ability
For Brazilians with extraordinary ability or achievement in business, science, arts, athletics, or education. No investment required. Particularly relevant for Brazilian tech founders, artists, and accomplished executives.
L-1 Intracompany Transfer
For Brazilians who work for a Brazilian company with a U.S. subsidiary or affiliate. Allows transfer to the U.S. entity in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge role.
Portugal Golden Visa + E-2 (New in 2025)
Brazil has strong cultural and linguistic ties to Portugal. Portuguese citizenship (obtainable through Portugal's Golden Visa program via investment) gives access to E-2 status as of March 2025. This dual-strategy produces both EU citizenship and E-2 eligibility — a particularly compelling option for Brazilians given the shared language and cultural familiarity with Portugal.
Dual Citizenship — Grenada CBI
Grenada's citizenship-by-investment program (approximately $235,000 donation) provides an alternative treaty-country passport for E-2 eligibility. Grenada has an E-2 treaty with the U.S. and no residency requirement for CBI applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common immigration questions.
Still have questions? Speak directly with an immigration attorney.
Contact UsSchedule a Consultation
Speak With an Immigration Attorney
Immigration Options for Brazilian Nationals
Book a 30-minute consultation directly with our team. Select a time that works for you.