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Pinho Law

Journey 1

"I want to move to the United States."

Good. The right first question isn't *how do I get a visa* — it's *which visa*. Most Brazilians arrive fixated on one path (usually EB-5 or E-2) and discover too late there was a better, faster, cheaper route for their specific situation. **Immigration visas aren't a catalog. They're strategy.**

Most common paths for Brazilians

EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver)

For advanced-degree professionals whose work benefits the United States. No job offer required. Self-petition allowed. The preferred path for scientists, engineers, physicians, tech founders, researchers, and professionals with a documented track record.

  • Current approval rate (USCIS 2025–2026): ~44% regular / 67% overall
  • Average timeline: 12–18 months (Premium Processing available)
  • Government fees: $2,805 (I-140 + Premium)

EB-5 (Investor)

For those who can invest $800K (rural/TEA) or $1.05M (urban). Must create at least 10 US jobs.

  • Brazilians: priority date CURRENT, no backlog — 1.4 years average
  • Investment return horizon: typically 5–7 years

L-1 (Intracompany Transfer)

For founders with an existing Brazilian company (1+ year of operation) opening a US branch. The L-1 → EB-1C path is often the cheapest green-card route for Brazilian entrepreneurs WITHOUT dual citizenship.

Heads up

E-2 (Treaty Investor) — dual citizenship only

⚠️ Brazil is NOT an E-2 treaty country. Brazilians can only apply via dual citizenship with a treaty country (Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, etc.). If you hold an Italian or Portuguese passport, E-2 is one of the best routes.

Marriage Green Card

If you're married to a US citizen or permanent resident, this is typically the most direct path.

  • With US citizen: 10–13 months average (adjustment of status in US)
  • With permanent resident: timelines vary per Visa Bulletin

O-1 (Extraordinary Ability)

For artists, athletes, scientists, executives, and professionals with documented recognition in their field. Requires substantial evidence (awards, press, etc.).

Tool: Find your path in 5 minutes

Our AI-powered tool analyzes your situation (citizenship, budget, professional history, family, timeline) and returns a personalized recommendation with the most viable paths — including estimated cost and timeline.

Frequently asked questions

Can a Brazilian get an E-2 visa?

Not directly. Brazil is not a signatory to the E-2 treaty. Brazilians can only apply via dual citizenship with a treaty country (e.g. Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, Argentina, Paraguay, Japan).

How much does a green card petition cost?

Depends on the path. Firm fees for EB-2 NIW range $7,500–$12,000. For marriage to a US citizen, $3,500–$5,500. Government fees are additional. We provide a fixed quote after initial assessment.

Do I need to speak English for a green card?

Not at petition time. English is required at naturalization (citizenship), 3–5 years after green card — with exemptions based on age and residency time.

How long does a green card take in 2026?

Depends entirely on path: USC marriage 10–13 months, EB-2 NIW 12–18 months, EB-5 24–48 months, EB-3 (employer sponsorship) 2–5 years. Our job in the assessment is telling you the fastest path for your specific case.

Can I start the process while living in Brazil?

Yes. Most petitions start with the client in Brazil. Depending on the visa, the final step is either at a US Consulate in São Paulo, Rio, Brasília, Recife, or Porto Alegre (consular processing) or within the US (adjustment of status).

What happens if my petition is denied?

Depending on the case, three paths: Motion to Reopen, Motion to Reconsider, or Appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). We evaluate each denial to identify the path with the highest reversal probability.

WhatsApp (407) 385-4144 · izi@pinholaw.com

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Schedule a consultation today. We will listen, assess your situation, and give you a clear path forward — in the language you are most comfortable with.