Document Renewal for Residents in Brazil: what actually matters to know
Short answer
The RNM protocol and card require mandatory annual renewal at the Federal Police, even if no expiration date is printed on the document. While some regions allow walk-ins at issuance windows for specific extensions, you may need separate visits for protocol and card processing.
From real experience
In Brazil, renewal of certain documents, such as the RNM (Registro Nacional Migratório) card and protocol, often requires annual procedures.
Users report confusion regarding whether to 'renew' or 're-issue' documents. Specific advice found in discussions indicates that both the protocol and the CRNM card may need annual renewal. Some documents may not have an expiration date printed, only a issuance date. Some users mention needing to attend the police office twice for separate procedures: one for protocol renewal and another for RNM card renewal.
✓ 3 reports from chats
Temporary RNM (Registro Nacional Migratório) protocols, especially initial paper versions for refugees, must be extended at the Federal Police if the plastic card is not issued before the protocol's expiration date.
While there's some leeway (it may be implicitly valid for 6 months post-expiration for certain types), it's mandatory to renew. In São Paulo, for this specific type of extension, an appointment is not required; individuals can visit the card issuance window at the Federal Police station before or on the expiration date.