The migration registration system in Brazil has undergone significant modernization in recent years. Today, the terms RNM (Registro Nacional Migratório), CRNM (Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório) and RNE (Registro Nacional de Estrangeiros) are fundamental for identifying and regularizing the situation of immigrants. Throughout this post, we'll explain the differences between these documents, cover the renewal and updating process and, finally, show you how to obtain and keep your documentation up to date.
What are NMR, CRNM and RNE?
The RNM is a unique number generated from the immigrant's personal and biometric data. It replaced the old RNE, which was the traditional identification document for foreigners. The CRNM, on the other hand, is the physical card that contains this number and acts as the immigrant's official identity in Brazil. In other words, while the RNE was the previous format, the RNM and CRNM represent the modernization of the registration system, guaranteeing greater security and efficiency in the control of migratory data.
Who needs an NMR/CRNM?
Obtaining the RNM/CRNM is mandatory for:
- Immigrants with temporary visas: must register within 90 days of entering Brazil.
- Residence permit holders: have 30 days from the publication of the authorization in the Federal Official Gazette to register.
- Refugees, stateless people and asylum seekers: those recognized by the competent authorities also need to regularize their migration status.
Keeping your registration up to date is essential for exercising civil rights, accessing public services and even for hiring processes when it comes to foreign employees.
How to obtain the NMR/CRNM?
The process to regularize your migration status and obtain the RNM/CRNM involves several steps, which must be followed carefully:
- Preparation of documentation: First, organize the necessary documents, such as passport, residence visa, proof of address and others required by law. Consult the official website of the Federal Police for the full list of documents.
- Filling in the online form: access the specific electronic form for applying for migration registration on the Federal Police website. Fill it in with your personal information and the data requested.
- Issue of the Collection Form (GRU): generate the GRU to pay the administrative fee. Make sure you make the payment and keep the receipt.
- Appointment scheduling: After filling in the form and paying the fee, make an appointment online to go to the Federal Police unit in your region. Be aware of the deadlines and times available.
- Attendance and Collection of Biometric Data: on the scheduled day, go to the Federal Police unit with the original documents and the necessary copies. During the appointment, your personal and biometric data will be collected to issue the RNM/CRNM.
- Receipt of the CRNM: finally, once your application has been processed, the system will inform you when the document is ready for collection. Follow the instructions to schedule the pick-up, if necessary, and obtain your CRNM at the service unit.
In the event of loss, theft or damage, it is also possible to request a duplicate CRNM by filling in specific forms and presenting a police report, as well as proof of payment of the reissue fee.
Renewing and updating the document
When the RNM/CRNM expires, it is essential to renew it within 90 days to avoid irregularities. Renewal follows a similar procedure to issuing, and is carried out at the Federal Police unit in the region where the immigrant resides. It is important to document any change in status and update the information according to the category of residence - whether temporary or permanent.
In addition, if the immigrant changes category (for example, from student to resident by family reunion), the document will need to be replaced to reflect the new legal status.
Relevance for companies and employers
In addition to being mandatory for the regularization of immigrants, the RNM/CRNM also plays a crucial role in hiring processes. Companies that recruit foreign workers need to validate the documentation, which includes the RNM/CRNM, the residence permit and, in some cases, the Digital Work Permit. In this way, these measures help to prevent irregular hiring and ensure that labor rights are respected, bringing the situation of foreigners on a par with that of Brazilian citizens in many respects.
