Thanks for the advice, William (or do you prefer Bill?),
Just FYI...I had become so frustrated with the MJ site not working that I began searching on the 'net for keywords/phrases regarding this problem and came across this thread. So, the very first thing I did, thereafter, was to "[c]lick on the link [you posted] in reply #2 above using IE," being certain to "[e]nter the number of [my] protocolo EXACTLY AS IT APPEARS complete with the '.', '/' and '-'." And although (I believe you when you say), "[i]t does work," it didn't and won't.
As regards what I mentioned, if I had been using only one computer (let alone trying to use, beyond IE, Chrome, Firefox, Opera and even Dolphin on an iPad), I'd chalk this problem up to some fault I was experiencing with a single device, a single platform, etc. However, the problem (again, as I say) is consistent, across the board, for months. I can't imagine this could have anything to do with my internet provider (GVT) or my IP address, but I suppose stranger things have happened.
So, I'm stymied.
To be sure I'm hitting on all your points, you suggested that "[i]f it comes back 'Registro Não Encontrado' that just means that the process has not yet been forwarded to the Ministry of Justice by the Federal Police in Brasília, or that they've got it but haven't entered it into the computer system yet."
Right. I get that (and thanks), but the thing is that absolutely (pardon my saying so, but) sod all happens. The site is just completely non-responsive.
You also say, "When it comes to anything to do with immigration, Federal Police and Ministry of Justice you've got to have the patience of Job, they take forever. Most processes take two year or more."
Right again. I'm here 10 years now and I won't bore you with the saga of what it took me to get my RNE the first time 'round (this is a renewal). So, I know the drill.
As to "[w]hat kind of VIPER Permanent Visa [am I renewing]?"
It's união estável-based.
As to whether "the Federal Police made their home visit...yet?"
Yep. That's done. What I'm wanting to monitor for now is when the decision gets published in the DOU. So, unless there is some way for me to resolve this issue with the MJ website, then what I'm left with is checking the DOU site every few days or so and doing a search on my name. Yeah, it'll get me what I next need and, sure, from there, I know what to do. Still, I'd like to be able to see the info registered where it's supposed to be and I'd like to be able to acquire the info from the site where they claim I should be able to acquire it (and where, in years past, I had no problem at all in acquiring such info).
You also suggest (as most well know) that all of these processes will drag along and take forever, "[u]nless...you're a refugee from Haiti, Syria or you're an international terrorist or corrupt foreign politician, then you paperwork will be done with lightning speed." Would it help if I dressed up as one? I dabbled in a bit of acting as a student at university, you know. ;-)
Anyway, there 'tis. If there's any other way out of this maddening dilemma, well, I welcome further suggestions from any and all quarters. Otherwise, thanks again for the advice and, who knows, perhaps we'll get a chance to trade war stories over a chopp or two one of these days (as we appear to be within striking distance of one another).
Regards,
RD
The Working Holiday Visa for Brazil
Work permits for Brazil
Visas & Other Documents in Brazil
General visa requirements for Brazil
Using phones in Brazil
Accommodation in Brasilia
Dating in Brazil
Marriage in Brazil
