CRNM protocol

Yes, I know one person who has done this recently. I have also (9 years ago) exited like this, and returned some 3 times before I finally got my physical RNE. That is why they give it to you. The "No Requerimento" on the protocolo document is what the immigration people will punch into the computer to verify you are real.

Save a photo in your cellphone for security, and also email yourself the same photo, so you have a third way to document this if you lose the paper and your cellphone.

Thanks for your reply. Does the protocolo have an expiry date, I read somewhere it’s 3 months, in which case I would have to return to Brazil before it expired.

Yes they expire. The "data de vencimento" will be clearly written on the document.

Now, back when I did mine, they put an actual laminated permanent resident paper visa page in my passport, which I used until I got the card. You had to go to the DELIMIG setor @ the airport upon first arrival within 30 days to get the visa activated, which meant your photos and biometrics taken, whereupon you got your visa in the P/P stamped, signed, and you were good to go.....and you started waiting for the card.

Procedures have probably changed marginally since then. I don't know. It's Brasil.