You Can Sue in Brazil Even From Abroad
No residency, no visa required in 2026
Por Lucas Ribeiro Cavalcante — OAB/CE 44.673
You Can Sue in Brazil Even From Abroad
No residency, no visa required in 2026
Por Lucas Ribeiro Cavalcante — OAB/CE 44.673
A supplier in Sao Paulo never paid your invoice. You live in Berlin and think you can do nothing. But Brazilian law says otherwise.
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Under Law 13.445/2017, foreigners have identical standing before Brazilian courts as nationals.
Do I need to live in Brazil to sue?
No. You can file even if you have never set foot in Brazil, as long as a local lawyer represents you.
Dica
There is one cost rule that surprises almost every foreign plaintiff: the cost bond for non-residents. Budget for it before you file.
✘ Mito
Myth: Brazil works like US or UK Common Law
✓ Verdade
Truth: it is Civil Law, changing evidence and timing
Hire an OAB lawyer
Sign a Power of Attorney
File through the PJe system
Small Claims Court allows claims up to 20 minimum wages without a lawyer. Above that, an attorney becomes mandatory, and for foreigners it is always wiser.
Dica
Everything runs in Portuguese, filed electronically. Self-representation is a real risk. Your lawyer does every step in your name.
Your claim is valid in Brazil. Turn your right into action with the right lawyer.