Expert: Edison - 1/5/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
I'm currently staying in Manaus, and I'm thinking of going into business opening a restaurant - have a Brazilian partner, and can get a residency visa here. Please would you be so kind as to let me know what offical barriers I will face in doing this.  We have a site in mind, and I'm assured planning permission l not be a problem.  Many thanks in advance for any assitance.  Yours faithfully, Richard.

ANSWER: Hello Richard,

You will need at least six things:
1. Money
2. Learn Portuguese
3. Get a business or working visa
4. Time and nerves for a lot of bureaucracy and  paperwork
5. You partner has experience in the restaurant business and is a trustful person
6. Select a very safe area to open your business

Please ask you Brazilian partner to contact a local "policia Federal" (Federal Police) office for more details on visa requirements (requirements, time and cost). Also, hire a lawyer for all business and partnership paperwork.

Good luck in your business and have fun in Brazil!

Edison


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks again.  We have all covered apart from item 4 above, I know it's a specific question but do you have any idea what type of documentation I will need?  Thanks again.

Answer
Richard,

I am not an expert on visa requirements. My recommendation is to contact contact the local "policia federal" (Federal Police) office in Manaus or a Brazilian consulate in your home country: http://www.embassiesabroad.com/embassies-of/Brazil

You can also try to contact some expatriates for more information:
http://www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/living/living_abroad/living_in_brazil
http://www.expat-blog.com/en/directory/south-america/brazil/
http://www.expatriates.com/classifieds/brazil/

Good luck!

Edison