What Happens if I Don't Register My Marriage in Brazil?

Many Brazilians who marry overseas are unaware that the marriage may need to be registered in Brazil to have full legal effect in the country. The absence of this registration can create complications in various situations.

Why register the marriage in Brazil?

Registering an overseas marriage in Brazil updates the Brazilian's civil status in Brazilian public records. Without this registration, the Brazilian may continue to appear as single in Brazilian documents, which can affect:

• The spouse's inheritance rights in Brazil
• Property regime over real estate and other assets in Brazil
• Passport renewal and other documents
• Divorce proceedings in Brazil
• Social security benefits
• Visas and residence permits for a foreign spouse

How to register the marriage in Brazil?

1. 1

   Obtain the foreign marriage certificate

   Obtain the original marriage certificate issued in the country where the marriage was celebrated.

2. 2

   Apostille or legalise the document

   If the country is a signatory to the Hague Convention, obtain an Apostille. Otherwise, consular legalisation will be required.

3. 3

   Sworn translation

   The foreign document must be translated by a sworn translator in Brazil.

4. 4

   Registration at the civil registry office

   Present the documents to the competent civil registry office in Brazil. This process can be done through a representative with a Power of Attorney.