Brazil : How to apply for a Family Reunification Visa (VITEM XI)

In a significant move to support Haitian families, Brazil has streamlined the process for obtaining Family Reunification Visas (VITEM XI) through a collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). As of March 2025, approximately 180,000 Haitians reside in Brazil, with children born to Haitian parents in the country enjoying equal civil rights, including access to healthcare and education, as stated by Brazilian Ambassador Luis Fernando de Carvalho. The Visa Application Center for Brazil (CAVB), managed by IOM since 2015, exclusively assists Haitian citizens in applying for temporary humanitarian and family reunification visas. The center provides comprehensive administrative support, including form completion, document verification, and secure document transfer. However, CAVB staff do not influence visa decisions, which remain the sole responsibility of the Brazilian Embassy in Port-au-Prince. Applicants must submit a range of documents, including a valid passport, recent photos, a criminal record extract, and notarized copies of residence permits and identity documents. Notably, for 2025, notarized documents can be submitted via email, though the embassy may request physical copies if necessary. To schedule an appointment, applicants must verify their documents with a call center agent. The CAVB is located in Port-au-Prince and requires a confirmed appointment for visits.