Same-sex civil unions are not recognised in Brazil.

As a result, the British Embassy in Brasilia and its Consulates in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro cannot perform same-sex marriages.

However, same-sex couples have the option to have their relationships registered as a “stable union” in any Civil Registration Office (Cartório de Registro Civil).

Please note that there is no consensus over the definition of “stable union”, which can be proved either against the written contract at the Civil Registrar Office or by evidences that the partners have been living together for more than 2 years.

If the couple does not have a written contract at the Civil Registrar Office, the Civil Court will decide whether the relationship in question is stable and exclusive. This is done through the examination of documents and other evidence, for example: photos, joint statements proof that the couple live together, and whether it is the purpose of the couple to constitute a family.

Same sex-couples who prove that their relationship is a “stable union” will be treated by the National Social Security Institute no differently than a married couple in cases of retirement or death. The “stable union” will allow people in same-sex relationships to declare their partners as dependants on income tax returns.

To apply for residence in Brazil, same sex partners and unmarried couples that have stable union relationships should go to the nearest Ministry for Labour and Employment (MTE). The residency permit will be evaluated by the authorities that can grant or refuse the request.

For further information please check the following links

Information on Visas based on Stable Union relationship for partners willing to fix residency in Brazil

*Note that  the MTE will issue this type of visa not the Federal Police.

1. Information from MTE : Administrative resolution  nº 5  from the MTE dated from 03/12/2003 Temporary or permanent visa or residence to partners. Administrative resolution n 27º from 25/11/1998 Omission and special cases. Administrative resolution n 36º from 28/09/1999 Familiar reunion based on stable union.
2. Information from the Federal Police site:  FAQ number 24  
3. Information from the Brazilian Consulate in London

Information on Visas based on Stable Union relationship for partners willing to fix residency in the UK:

www.visainfoservices.com