Getting ready to move

The Brazil subreddit was useful for answers to carrying a knife. A civil policeman and a lawyer said this:

"In regard to the law, there's nothing that prohibits you from carrying a blade. People will tell you about the 10cm but that's from a 1936 law that is not in effect anymore.

In our Misdemeanor's Code, we have (Law 3688/1941) the article 18 states that: "Fabricate, import, export, keep in deposit or sell weapon, without the proper license"

You could argue that "keep in deposit" and "carry" are the same thing, but even then it's what we call a "blank penal law"- wich means that it's a generic law that requires specific complements, since there's no regulation stating how to emit a license to carry a non-firearm weapon, you can't be accused of doing it."

I also found this: camachoknives.com/porte.html

Out of the 4 removal firms I contacted, 2 didn't respond, 1 asked me to call him on the other side of the world and the 4th gave me some advice (if they respond to my last email I'll probably hire them - communication is vital when your worldly belongings are entrusted!).

From Priscila de Lima, Premier Relocations Brazil:

"Itemizing Contents:

For your tools, nuts, bolts, wiring, cables, and components, you might want to create a detailed inventory list. Consider grouping similar items together in boxes and labeling each box with a detailed list of contents. This will help both with organizing your belongings and making it easier to find specific items later.

1980s Computer Cassettes and Computers:

These items can be particularly sensitive to damage, so pack them carefully in cushioned boxes. Create a list of each item, including any important details (e.g., brand, model) and note the condition. For electronics, it’s also wise to keep the original packaging if available.

CDs, DVDs, Books:

These can be packed in sturdy boxes, with books ideally packed flat to avoid damage. For CDs and DVDs, consider using protective sleeves or cases to prevent scratching.

Bench Mounted Drill:

The weight of your bench-mounted drill (25kg) shouldn’t be an issue, but it’s important to ensure it is securely packed to prevent any damage during transit. If necessary, you might need to arrange special handling or packing services for heavy or bulky items.

Collection of Knives:

We don't recommend you bring these items.

Shipping costs are typically calculated based on both weight and cubic volume. To get an accurate estimate, you should provide details about the total weight and dimensions of your packed items. Shipping companies can offer quotes based on these factors."

@Gareth Owen

Your permanent visa must have expired since it has been more than 2 years since you were in Brazil. Therefore it has ceased to exist, and you cannot reuse or resurrect it in any way, I am sorry to say, but that is the legal limit for staying out of Brazil with a permanent visa. There is no right of appeal.

So, you can only come now as a tourist (unless you have another plan), and that means that you cannot import any of your personal belongings easily or tax free. As far as carrying a knife is concerned, that probably is one of the quickest ways to get sent back home again!

09/02/24 @Gareth Owen.  I'm inclined to think that @Peter Itamaraca is correct.  However, if the permanent visa that you referenced above is a VIPER and you still have it, and if the "Validade" on your CIE (aka "RNE") is "Indeterminada", it might be worthwhile to check your status with the nearest Brazilian Consulate to you in the UK --  you have the time.  And even if your residency has lapsed, if you're still married to your Brazilian spouse you also have time to get a VITEM XI Family Reunion visa which will still allow you to move your household duty-free.

@Gareth Owen - My only response is that if you feel you have to bring a knife into the room, then you are in the wrong room. I live in a very comfortable and peaceful village in Northeastern Brazil with my Brazilian wife, my 97-year-old Brazilian mother, my wife's mentally challenged uncle, our live-in PM caretaker, her young son and very young daughter. At no time have I felt that we needed a knife for anything but buttering bread. If you do not feel comfortable in the area you are considering living in, I would keep looking until you find your own personal paradise.

Roddie in Retirement