Brazil – Buying Property

Can foreign nationals legally buy and own property in Brazil?

As of early 2026, overseas buyers may acquire standard urban residential property anywhere across Brazil’s cities and towns without geographic constraint. This positions Brazil among the more accessible property markets in Latin America for international purchasers. There are no prohibited nationalities, and no bilateral agreements grant particular countries preferential purchasing rights, meaning buyers from every nation operate under the same legal framework.

To acquire real estate in Brazil, a foreign purchaser must first obtain a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Física) — the individual taxpayer registry number administered by the Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal). Applications can be submitted at a Brazilian consulate in your home country or directly at a Receita Federal office once inside Brazil. Non-residents and visitors on tourist visas are permitted to buy urban property, though they will need a CPF and may require a power of attorney if they are unable to attend every stage of the signing process in person.

Certain categories of land are subject to restrictions. Coastal zones and islands fall under government control and require specific authorisation, while border zones — defined as areas lying within 150 km of the country’s frontiers — are frequently off-limits to foreign acquisition. Properties situated in national security zones require prior consent from the National Defence Council (Conselho de Defesa Nacional).

Rural land operates under a distinct regulatory regime. Law No. 5,709 of 7 October 1971, together with Normative Instruction 88 of 2017 issued by the National Institute of Colonization and Agrarian Reform (INCRA), governs foreign purchases of rural properties with the objective of safeguarding national sovereignty. Where a property measures between 3 and 50 “Módulos de Exploração Indefinida (MEI),” INCRA authorisation is compulsory. Foreigners are prohibited from acquiring rural properties exceeding 50 fiscal modules, and the total rural area held by foreign nationals may not surpass 25% of the total area of the municipality in which it is situated.

The principal land registration authority in Brazil is the Cartório de Registro de Imóveis (Real Estate Registry Office). Every purchase must be recorded there to be legally effective. Your local office can be located through the national notarial system. The relevant legal framework is the Civil Code (Federal Law No. 10,406/2002), with rural matters overseen by INCRA. The official INCRA portal is available at www.gov.br/incra.

What are average property prices in Brazil, and how do they vary by region?

Brazil’s national average residential property price stood at R$9,366 per square metre as of September 2025, representing year-on-year growth of 7.97% — the strongest pace of increase seen in the Brazilian housing market for more than a decade. Regional differences are considerable, however, and the national figure paints only a partial picture.

City apartments in major urban centres typically range from R$13,435 to R$14,376 per square metre, while detached houses average R$8,373 per square metre across the country. At the luxury end of the spectrum, prime coastal districts such as Leblon in Rio de Janeiro command between R$20,000 and R$25,000 per m², whereas more affordable cities offer properties for under R$5,000 per m².

Coastal markets in Santa Catarina — most notably Balneário Camboriú — have reached extraordinary price levels exceeding R$60,000 per square metre, placing them among the most expensive addresses in Latin America. This is a clear outlier even within the Brazilian context, driven by intense demand for premium beachfront units in that specific location.

In São Paulo, residential prices climbed 6.11% year-on-year in April 2025, representing the city’s sharpest annual rise in a decade. Rio de Janeiro recorded a more measured increase of 4.62% over the same period, though this was still the city’s strongest performance since March 2015.

Secondary cities, including Salvador and João Pessoa, are leading price growth nationally, posting increases exceeding 20% — a pace far outstripping São Paulo and Rio. Among surveyed cities, João Pessoa offered some of the most accessible entry prices. For up-to-date figures, consult reputable portals such as ZAP Imóveis or Viva Real, as values fluctuate considerably.

Where are the most popular locations to buy property in Brazil?

The areas most frequently targeted by foreign buyers include districts such as Jardins, Itaim Bibi, and Vila Madalena in São Paulo; Leblon and Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro; and Jurerê Internacional in Florianópolis. Each location carries its own distinct character and appeal.

São Paulo functions as Brazil’s economic engine and is home to a large international business community, as well as world-class dining, cultural institutions, and extensive transport connections. In the first two months of 2025, the city logged 17,156 residential transactions — a 40.6% increase on the same period the previous year. Demand is particularly concentrated in Jardins and Itaim Bibi, both known for high-end urban living.

Rio de Janeiro retains its iconic status by combining oceanfront beaches, dramatic mountain scenery, and a rich cultural scene. A rebound in tourism and ongoing revitalisation of the port area are fuelling appetite for short-let apartments, while planned light-rail extensions are opening up sites in the North Zone. Ipanema, Leblon, and Copacabana continue to draw lifestyle buyers and investors in equal measure.

Florianópolis appeals to buyers seeking a balance between coastal living and a comparatively high quality of life. The city ranked alongside Rio de Janeiro as one of Brazil’s most expensive residential markets, with average house prices approaching R$1.7 million. It is a particularly attractive destination for remote-working professionals and families in search of a safer urban setting.

Natal and the broader Northeast coastline — including Fortaleza and Porto de Galinhas — draw buyers motivated by warmer weather, lower acquisition costs, and the prospect of rental returns from Brazil’s flourishing domestic and international tourism trade. Interest from wealthy overseas investors has driven strong demand for luxury beachfront properties throughout this region.

Are there any emerging or up-and-coming areas worth considering in Brazil?

Salvador posted the highest year-on-year price growth among Brazil’s 16 largest cities, rising 20.63% in April 2025 — the steepest increase the city has recorded since data collection began in August 2010. Long overshadowed by São Paulo and Rio, Salvador is attracting growing interest on account of its Afro-Brazilian cultural heritage, strengthening infrastructure, and comparatively affordable entry prices.

The infrastructure projects most likely to influence Brazilian property values over the coming five years include the São Paulo Metro Line 6, which will link the city’s northern and central districts; broader Novo PAC urban mobility investments across multiple state capitals; and Rio de Janeiro’s port district regeneration programme. Properties situated near completed infrastructure projects in Brazil typically achieve a price premium of between 10% and 25% over comparable properties lacking that improved connectivity.

Within Brasília, the Sudowest neighbourhood presents emerging investment potential, underpinned by ongoing urban development, new residential supply, and improving infrastructure. Its modern urban layout and rising popularity suggest meaningful long-term appreciation prospects.

Both Curitiba and Belo Horizonte are gaining ground as investment destinations. Curitiba recorded year-on-year price growth of 14.43% in April 2025. Each city benefits from solid infrastructure, expanding technology and creative industries, and a more temperate climate than the tropical northeast, making them increasingly compelling for long-term residents and investors alike.

What are the current trends in the property market in Brazil?

Brazil’s FipeZap house price index registered growth of 7.97% in the year to April 2025, an acceleration from the 5.76% annual increase recorded in April 2024. Adjusted for inflation, however, the real nationwide gain was a more modest 2.31% over the same period. The market is performing robustly, but buyers should be aware that inflation-adjusted gains are considerably lower than the headline numbers suggest.

Compact units — particularly studios and one-bedroom apartments — are outperforming larger properties, posting annual appreciation of approximately 9%, driven by affordability pressures. Brazil’s Selic benchmark interest rate stood at 15% in January 2026, the highest level since 2006, keeping mortgage costs elevated and tilting demand towards smaller, more attainably priced homes.

Construction activity is responding to underlying demand: in the first two months of 2025, new residential launches in São Paulo surged by 130.3% to 16,940 units, following a 42.6% rise in launches across the whole of 2024. This signals that developers are actively expanding supply in anticipation of continued take-up.

ESG obligations are prompting landlords to invest in energy-efficient upgrades — including smart metering and solar installations — which improve tenant retention and support asset values over time. Sustainability and green building credentials are becoming meaningful purchase criteria, particularly at the higher end of the market. For the most authoritative current overview, consult the Câmara Brasileira da Indústria da Construção (CBIC) and the FipeZap index published by FIPE.

Is buying property in Brazil a good investment?

Rental accommodation accounts for 31.46% of the market and is benefiting from urban migration trends and growing lifestyle flexibility among tenants. Gross yields of 2.7%–5.4% are attracting institutional landlords — broadly in line with many Western European markets, though Brazil’s higher inflation environment means real returns require careful assessment. Compared with more established markets such as Germany or Australia, the Brazilian market offers greater upside potential alongside correspondingly greater risk.

A flourishing tourism sector, rising demand for holiday rental accommodation, and relatively competitive property prices by some international benchmarks make Brazil an attractive proposition for overseas real estate investors. Currency dynamics can work meaningfully in foreign buyers’ favour: during periods when the Brazilian real depreciates, international purchasers benefit from enhanced buying power and potentially stronger returns when repatriating rental income or sale proceeds.

Residents enjoy clear advantages in terms of banking access and mortgage eligibility, whereas non-residents typically encounter significant barriers to local financing and generally need to purchase with cash or arrange funding from their home country. This requirement to buy outright can, however, strengthen a foreign buyer’s negotiating position.

Brazilian property prices rose approximately 7% in nominal terms in 2025, but real growth after inflation was closer to 2%; moreover, the gap between listed and agreed prices in Brazilian cities averages around 6%. Buyers should factor this in and negotiate accordingly. As with all property investment, historical performance provides no guarantee of future results. Professional independent financial advice from someone with expertise in both your home country and Brazilian tax and investment regulations is strongly recommended before committing.

What types of property are commonly available to buy in Brazil?

Detached houses and landed properties accounted for 77.9% of transactions in 2024, reflecting longstanding land-ownership traditions and the availability of suburban land. Nonetheless, apartments represent the dominant property type in major urban centres such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, where land scarcity makes high-rise living the norm.

The Brazilian market broadly comprises the following categories:

• Apartments (Apartamentos): The most widely purchased property type in cities, ranging from compact studio units to expansive luxury penthouses. Many are located within condomínios — gated or managed complexes — offering shared facilities including swimming pools, gyms, and round-the-clock security.
• Houses (Casas): Prevalent in suburban districts and smaller towns. Available as standalone homes or within gated communities (condomínios fechados), which are especially popular with families.
• Beachfront and coastal properties: Among the most sought-after by foreign buyers, spanning modest holiday apartments to substantial villas. These are subject to specific environmental and coastal regulations — always verify compliance with IBAMA and local planning authorities before purchasing.
• Rural properties and farmland (Fazendas/Sítios): Large agricultural estates known as fazendas, and smaller rural retreats called sítios. Subject to the additional foreign ownership restrictions described above.
• Off-plan developments (Planta): Purchasing directly from developers prior to construction completion is commonplace and often involves staged payment structures. This carries specific risks, discussed further in the pitfalls section below.
• Commercial properties: Retail units, office space, and mixed-use premises — available to foreign buyers on the same terms as urban residential property.

Brazil’s varied climate and geography shape the property types being developed in each region. Coastal areas generate strong demand for vacation homes and beachfront residences, while the major metropolitan centres are experiencing a surge in high-rise condominium development.

What is the typical step-by-step process for buying property in Brazil?

Purchasing property in Brazil is a notary-centric process that differs markedly from markets such as the US or Australia, where notaries play a more limited role. In Brazil, no property transfer is legally valid without the involvement of a cartório (notary office). The process typically spans two to four months from offer to completion.

1. Obtain a CPF number. This is the indispensable first step before searching for properties or submitting offers. The CPF is Brazil’s individual taxpayer registry number. Apply through a Brazilian consulate in your home country or at a Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal) office inside Brazil.
2. Find a property and make an offer. Engage a CRECI-registered estate agent (see below). Negotiate on price — a property listed at R$700,000 will typically transact closer to R$658,000, so meaningful negotiation is standard practice.
3. Sign a preliminary contract (Contrato de Compra e Venda or “Promessa de Compra e Venda”). You may be asked to sign a reservation agreement or promissory purchase and sale contract and to pay a deposit known as “Sinal” or “Arras.” This is customary practice, as it commits both parties and prevents the vendor from proceeding with a competing sale in the interim.
4. Conduct due diligence. This stage involves confirming ownership, identifying any legal disputes, verifying tax compliance, and ensuring the property is free from irregularities. Your lawyer will obtain a matrícula atualizada (updated property registration certificate), tax clearance certificates, and checks on the seller’s legal standing. Unlike some markets, Brazil does not use title insurance — protection rests on rigorous documentary review.
5. Pay the ITBI transfer tax. ITBI must be settled before the public deed is executed or the contract lodged at the notary. The buyer presents proof of payment to proceed without impediment. Rates range from 2%–4% depending on the municipality (as of 2025).
6. Sign the public deed (Escritura Pública) at the notary. Properties valued above 30 times the minimum wage generally require formalisation via a public deed. The notary drafts the deed and confers it with public faith in the presence of both contracting parties. This process can also be completed electronically through the national “e-Notariado” platform.
7. Register the property at the Real Estate Registry Office (Cartório de Registro de Imóveis). Registration at the local Cartório de Registro de Imóveis is mandatory. Until this step is completed, the buyer does not hold full legal title. Registration fees are approximately 0.1%–0.3% of the property value (as of 2025 — verify with your local registry).
8. Register the transaction with the Central Bank (if funds are remitted from abroad). Any funds transferred from overseas must pass through authorised financial institutions and be duly registered with the Central Bank of Brazil. This step is essential for establishing the legal basis for future repatriation of proceeds.

Foreign buyers whose documents were issued abroad will need apostille certification and sworn translation into Portuguese. All paperwork must be rendered by a certified translator, which typically adds between $300 and $800 to total expenses.

As an overall budgeting guide, buyers should allow for total closing costs of 6%–9% on top of the purchase price, covering ITBI, notary fees, and legal costs (as of 2025 — always confirm current figures with your lawyer and the relevant municipality).

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Brazil, and how do I find a reputable one?

Engaging a lawyer is not a statutory requirement for every property transaction in Brazil, but it is very strongly advisable — particularly for foreign buyers. A real estate attorney well-versed in Brazilian law will ensure that all documents, taxes, and registrations are handled properly, guarding against costly errors or delays. An experienced lawyer also provides critical protection against fraud, concealed encumbrances, and irregular property registrations, all of which are by no means rare in Brazil’s decentralised registry system.

Contracts in Brazil must be notarised and registered in order to be legally enforceable. A real estate lawyer will review contracts, translate them for foreign clients, and ensure all formalities are properly observed — without valid notarisation, a buyer’s rights remain unprotected.

All practising lawyers in Brazil must hold registration with the Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil (OAB) — the Brazilian Bar Association. Their registration and standing can be verified through the OAB’s official website at www.oab.org.br. Each state maintains its own OAB section (for example, OAB/SP for São Paulo), and the register is searchable online to confirm qualifications.

Real estate agents in Brazil must be registered with the Conselho Regional de Corretores de Imóveis (CRECI), the regional professional council for property brokers. Always confirm that any agent you work with holds a current CRECI registration. The national governing body is the Conselho Federal de Corretores de Imóveis (COFECI), accessible at www.cofeci.gov.br.

Legal fees for a property purchase typically fall in the range of 1%–2% of the purchase price, though some firms charge a fixed fee based on transaction complexity. As of 2025, specialists in international property law may quote differently — always secure a written fee agreement before instructing. Confirm current rates directly with your chosen firm, as these vary widely.

What are the most common pitfalls expats encounter when buying property in Brazil?

Title defects and irregular registrations. Brazil’s property registry system is decentralised, and title irregularities occur with some frequency. Thorough due diligence is not optional for foreign buyers — it is the principal safeguard against fraud, hidden liabilities, and legal complications that could render a property unsellable in future. Always commission a full matrícula check and obtain seller clearance certificates before paying any deposit.

Undisclosed debts attached to the property. In Brazil, unpaid taxes and certain liabilities can transfer with a property rather than remaining the seller’s responsibility. Due diligence must confirm that all taxes — including ITBI and ongoing charges such as IPTU or ITR — are fully up to date, so the buyer does not inherit outstanding obligations.

Off-plan purchase risks. Buying from a developer ahead of completion is widespread and can deliver savings, but carries risks including developer insolvency, late delivery, and alterations to agreed specifications. Always verify the developer’s CRECI registration, check that the project is registered at the local Cartório, and have a lawyer scrutinise the contract thoroughly before committing funds.

Coastal and environmental compliance. Coastal properties, particularly in areas such as Natal, require IBAMA permits, with fines reaching up to BRL 50,000 for violations. Never assume that an existing structure on coastal land is fully authorised — always verify compliance with local environmental authorities and the municipal planning department.

Under-declaring the purchase price. Some vendors attempt to arrange a portion of the sale price as an off-the-books payment to minimise tax exposure. This constitutes a criminal offence, not an accepted local practice, and should be refused outright. It exposes buyers to serious tax penalties and can complicate future resale and the repatriation of funds.

Currency transfer risks. Movements in the exchange rate between the Brazilian real and other currencies can materially affect the total cost of a purchase. Work with a reputable currency transfer specialist, and ensure all overseas funds are routed through an authorised financial institution and properly registered with the Central Bank of Brazil — this registration is essential for recovering proceeds when you come to sell.

Unlicensed agents. Always verify an agent’s CRECI registration before proceeding. Unregistered agents have no professional accountability and may carry no obligation to disclose known defects or conflicts of interest.

Tax compliance in your home country. Acquiring property abroad may give rise to reporting obligations in your country of tax residence. Always seek advice from a qualified tax professional in both countries before completing any transaction.

Can I buy property in Brazil through a company, and is it worth doing?

The most straightforward way to sidestep rural land restrictions is to focus on urban residential property, which is not subject to those limitations. Some foreign buyers do nonetheless establish Brazilian companies to acquire rural land, provided they do so with proper legal guidance. For urban property, corporate ownership is also an option and may offer certain advantages depending on the buyer’s circumstances.

The most commonly used corporate structures for foreign investors are the Sociedade Limitada (Ltda.) — broadly comparable to a limited liability company in many jurisdictions — and the Sociedade Anônima (SA) for larger-scale investments. A Brazilian company can hold property in its own name, and some buyers adopt this structure to simplify estate planning, facilitate co-ownership between multiple parties, or manage rental income more efficiently.

Potential benefits of a corporate structure include a more straightforward transfer of ownership — by selling company shares rather than the underlying property — which can reduce certain transaction taxes, and the ability to consolidate multiple properties under a single legal entity. Depending on your specific circumstances and home country tax position, there may also be corporate income tax advantages.

That said, corporate ownership entails ongoing obligations: annual accounts, compliance costs, and potential exposure to corporate income tax on rental receipts. The principal acquisition tax remains the ITBI — a municipal levy of 2% to 4%, calculated on whichever is higher between the transaction value and the tax authority’s assessed value. An exemption applies where real estate is contributed to a company’s share capital, provided the company’s core business is not real estate.

Whether to buy through a company is a complex decision that depends on your investment goals, tax residency, and long-term intentions. Independent legal and tax advice from professionals with expertise in both Brazilian and home-country law is essential before taking this route.

What taxes and ongoing costs should I budget for when owning property in Brazil?

ITBI (Imposto de Transmissão de Bens Imóveis) — Property Transfer Tax. The primary tax on acquisition is the ITBI, a municipal levy ranging from 2% to 4%, applied to whichever is higher between the declared transaction value and the tax authority’s own assessed figure (as of 2025). São Paulo charges 3%; Rio de Janeiro and Brasília each apply a rate of 2%. Always confirm the rate for your specific municipality before finalising your budget.

IPTU (Imposto Predial e Territorial Urbano) — Annual Urban Property Tax. Collected by the municipality in which the property is located, IPTU is based on an assessed valuation of the property. Rates differ by municipality but can be estimated in the range of 0.3% to 1.5% per annum (as of 2025).

Notary and registration fees. Notary fees typically run from 0.3%–0.5% of property value, while registry fees amount to approximately 0.1%–0.3%. Total administrative transaction costs generally fall in the range of 0.4%–0.8% of the property value, excluding the tax amounts themselves (as of 2025).

ITCMD (Imposto de Transmissão Causa Mortis e Doação) — Inheritance and Gift Tax. ITCMD is a state-level tax, with each Brazilian state setting its own rates and rules within the limits defined by the Federal Constitution. Applicable to gratuitous transfers — whether by inheritance or gift — ITCMD rates reach up to 8% and became progressive following the 2025 Tax Reform.

Capital gains tax on sale. Vendors are subject to federal capital gains tax on profits from property sales, levied at progressive rates of 15% to 22.5% depending on the size of the gain. Non-residents should seek specific advice on how this interacts with the tax obligations of their home country.

Rental income tax. Income from letting a property is taxable in Brazil. Applicable rates and deductible expenses differ significantly between tax residents and non-residents — always obtain professional tax guidance before renting out a property.

Condominium and maintenance fees. For apartment buildings and gated communities, monthly condominium fees typically range from R$200 to R$2,000 or more depending on facilities and location. These cover maintenance of communal areas, security, and building management.

For current official rates, consult the Receita Federal (Brazilian Federal Revenue Service) at www.gov.br/receitafederal, and always verify municipal taxes with your local Prefeitura (city hall).

What are the official sources I should consult when buying property in Brazil?

When purchasing property in Brazil, the following official bodies and authoritative resources should serve as your primary reference points. Use them to cross-check any information you receive from agents, developers, or other parties.

• Receita Federal do Brasil (Federal Revenue Service) — The federal tax authority; issues CPF numbers and administers federal taxes including capital gains. www.gov.br/receitafederal
• INCRA (National Institute for Colonization and Agrarian Reform) — Regulates foreign purchases of rural land. www.gov.br/incra
• Cartório de Registro de Imóveis (Real Estate Registry Office) — Your local registry office handles property registration. Offices can be located nationally through the Registro de Imóveis portal.
• Banco Central do Brasil (Central Bank of Brazil) — Governs the registration of foreign capital and cross-border fund transfers. www.bcb.gov.br
• Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil (OAB) — The Brazilian Bar Association; verify any lawyer’s registration here. www.oab.org.br
• COFECI / CRECI (Council of Real Estate Agents) — National and regional bodies regulating property professionals. www.cofeci.gov.br
• IBAMA (Brazilian Environmental Agency) — Issues environmental permits for coastal and protected properties. www.gov.br/ibama
• Conselho Nacional de Justiça (CNJ) — Oversees notary offices nationally and administers the e-Notariado platform for electronic deeds. www.cnj.jus.br
• CBIC (Brazilian Construction Industry Chamber) — Publishes property market data and construction sector statistics. www.cbic.org.br
• FipeZap Index (FIPE) — Brazil’s authoritative house price index, tracking 25 municipalities. www.fipe.org.br

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to live in Brazil or have a visa to buy property there?

No residency or visa is required to purchase property in Brazil — foreigners are legally entitled to buy and hold real estate regardless of their immigration status. You will, however, need a CPF tax identification number, which can be obtained either through a Brazilian consulate in your home country or at a Receita Federal office within Brazil.

Can buying property in Brazil lead to residency or a visa?

Yes — the Brazilian government formally recognises a pathway to permanent residency through real estate investment. Non-residents may apply for a residence permit by purchasing property that meets the applicable minimum investment threshold: R$700,000 for properties located in municipalities with a Human Development Index (HDI) below the national average, and R$1 million for properties in municipalities with an HDI at or above the national average, including major cities such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília.

Can foreigners get a mortgage in Brazil?

Tax residents in Brazil have clear advantages when it comes to banking access and mortgage eligibility. Non-residents, by contrast, frequently find local financing difficult or unavailable, and most purchase with cash or arrange funding in their home country. Major Brazilian banks do extend mortgages to non-residents in some circumstances, typically requiring a deposit of 20%–30% of the property value, with annual rates of 8%–12% for 20-year terms as of September 2025 — elevated by international standards.

How do I transfer money from abroad to buy property in Brazil?

All overseas funds used for a property purchase must be remitted through authorised financial institutions and properly registered with the Central Bank of Brazil (Banco Central do Brasil). This registration is critical because it establishes the legal entitlement to repatriate your money when you eventually dispose of the property. Use a licensed bank or regulated currency transfer provider, retain all transfer documentation, and refer to the Banco Central do Brasil’s official guidance at www.bcb.gov.br.

What is a CPF and how do I get one?

The CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Física) is Brazil’s individual taxpayer registry number, administered by the Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal). It is a prerequisite for any financial transaction in Brazil, including property purchases. Applications can be made online via the Receita Federal’s website, at a Brazilian consulate abroad, or in person at a post office (Correios) or Receita Federal office in Brazil. The process is generally straightforward and free of charge.

How long does the property buying process take in Brazil?

A typical transaction runs from two to four months between offer and completion, though this may extend if documents require apostille certification and sworn translation, if due diligence uncovers complications, or if the property falls within a restricted zone requiring additional governmental approvals. Off-plan purchases are governed by the developer’s construction schedule, which can span several years. Engaging an experienced local lawyer helps minimise unnecessary delays.

Are there restrictions on renting out my property in Brazil?

There are no blanket restrictions preventing foreign owners from letting their Brazilian property. Rental income is taxable in Brazil and must be declared to the Receita Federal. Short-term rentals through platforms such as Airbnb are widely used but are subject to increasing regulatory scrutiny in cities including Rio de Janeiro. Municipal rules are tightening heading into 2026, but appreciation prospects are expected to offset any compression in short-term rental yields in key markets. Always verify the applicable local regulations with your lawyer before listing any property for short-term letting.

What happens to my Brazilian property if I die — does my family inherit it easily?

Foreign nationals who own assets in Brazil — including real estate — are subject to ITCMD inheritance tax on any transfer of those assets, even where the beneficiaries live abroad. Brazilian law governs assets physically located in Brazil irrespective of the deceased’s nationality or country of residence. Most Brazilian states levy between 4% and 8% on the total value of the estate transferred. It is advisable to prepare a Brazilian will covering your Brazilian assets and to obtain specialist international estate planning advice well before completing any purchase.