Buying property in Florida as a Brazilian is simpler than most people think, but it involves steps that, in the right order, prevent mistakes and save money. This is Buldora's master guide: each step below has an in-depth article.
You do not need a visa or to live in the U.S. The path is: define your goal, decide between cash or financing, handle ITIN/LLC if needed, send the money through the FX market, close the purchase remotely, and take care of taxes and the declaration in Brazil.
1. Can a Brazilian buy property in Florida?
Yes, without restriction. Foreigners can buy and hold U.S. property freely. Being an owner, however, does not grant a visa or green card — they are separate things. See does buying U.S. property give a green card?
2. Buying without leaving Brazil
The entire purchase can be done 100% remotely, with a power of attorney and remote closing. Learn the steps in how to buy U.S. property remotely.
3. How much you need to invest
It depends on buying with cash or financing, and the region's price range. See the numbers in how much you need to invest in U.S. property.
4. Financing for foreigners
You can finance even without U.S. credit history, with a down payment typically between 25% and 40%. See the options in financing U.S. property for foreigners.
5. ITIN: your taxpayer number
The ITIN helps with financing and U.S. tax obligations. See how to get an ITIN as a Brazilian.
6. Buy in your own name or through an LLC?
Opening an LLC is not required, but it can make sense for protection and planning. Compare in LLC to buy U.S. property.
7. FX and IOF: how to send the money
How you remit changes the cost. See IOF and FX to buy U.S. property and the step by step in how to transfer money from Brazil to the U.S.
8. The costs of owning the property
Beyond the price come HOA, property tax, insurance, and management. See costs of owning a U.S. property.
9. Taxes in the U.S. and in Brazil
There are obligations on both sides. Start with taxes when investing in U.S. real estate, then how to declare it on your income tax and, above US$ 1 million, the CBE Declaration to the Central Bank.
10. Where to buy: Orlando or Miami?
Different investor profiles. Compare in Miami vs Orlando and see the vacation home in Orlando model.
11. Dollar income and wealth protection
Many Brazilians' goal is to hold assets and income in dollars. See passive income in dollars and how to dollarize your wealth.
12. When you sell: capital gains
On sale, the profit is taxed as a capital gain in Brazil. See tax on selling U.S. property.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Brazilian buy property in Florida?
Yes. There is no restriction on foreigners buying U.S. property, and you do not need a visa or to live in the country.
Do I need a visa or green card?
No. Being an owner does not require a visa and does not grant residency.
Can I buy while living in Brazil?
Yes, the purchase can be done 100% remotely, with a power of attorney and remote closing.
How much down payment do I need?
With cash, the property price plus closing costs. Financing as a foreigner, the down payment is usually between 25% and 40%.
Can I finance without U.S. credit history?
Yes, through Foreign National programs and, with an ITIN, through ITIN Borrower options.
Do I need to open an LLC?
It is not required, but it can make sense for protection and planning. Evaluate with an accountant.
Do I need to declare it in Brazil?
Yes. The property goes on your income tax and, above US$ 1 million in foreign assets, on the Central Bank's CBE Declaration.
Sources
Buldora analysis based on official Brazilian sources: Banco Central do Brasil and Receita Federal do Brasil. Informational only; not legal, tax, or investment advice. Confirm current rules and consult an accountant.
