Canadian Immigration from Brazil

Eligibility considerations for applicants in Brazil

Skilled workers residing in Brazil typically evaluate their eligibility for Express Entry against the criteria of the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program or the Canadian Experience Class, depending on where their work experience was gained. A Provincial Nominee Program stream can be a complementary or alternative route where a province has a specific need matching the applicant's occupation.

Because eligibility depends on individually assessed factors — language scores, work experience, and, for some streams, a valid job offer — applicants are encouraged to review official program criteria carefully or consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant before applying.

Documentation from Brazil

Applicants who have lived in Brazil are generally asked for a federal police clearance certificate issued by the Polícia Federal, obtainable through its official online service. Civil documents such as birth and marriage certificates issued by Brazilian civil registries (cartórios) are accepted when properly certified.

Any document issued in Portuguese must be submitted with a certified translation into English or French, along with a copy of the original Portuguese-language document, following the general translation requirements that apply across all IRCC applications.

Credential assessment

Degrees and diplomas from Brazilian institutions must go through an Educational Credential Assessment performed by an IRCC-designated organisation, such as WES or ICAS, to receive a Canadian equivalency. This is required before education points can be claimed under the Comprehensive Ranking System in an Express Entry profile.

Because Brazilian institutions may issue transcripts only in Portuguese, applicants should confirm with their chosen assessment body whether they will handle translation as part of the assessment process or whether a separate certified translation is required first.

Language testing

The same globally accepted tests apply: IELTS General Training or CELPIP General for English, and TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French. Test centres for IELTS and CELPIP are available in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and other major Brazilian cities, and TEF Canada test centres also operate in Brazil for applicants targeting French-language points or Francophone immigration pathways.

Common pathways

• Express Entry through the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class.
• Provincial Nominee Program streams matched to specific occupations or regions.
• Francophone immigration pathways, for applicants from Brazil with strong French proficiency.
• Study permits leading to post-graduation work experience and eventual Permanent Residence.