Brazilian Senate passes new migration law

The Senate's Commission for Foreign Relations and National Defense passed on Thursday (Jul 2) the bill introducing the new Migration Law, which is to supersede the previous Foreigner's Statute, in effect since 1980.

In addition to replacing the term “foreigner,” adopted during military rule, with “migrant,” the text, drafted by Senator Aloysio Nunes Ferreira, classifies as “immigrant” anyone moving around, working, or dwelling in Brazil—both nationals from other countries and stateless persons, tourists not included.

The proposal, still pending deliberation by the Chamber of Deputies,  grants immigrants the same treatment as nationals, and also protects their civil, social, cultural, and economic liberties, as well as their rights, including that of free transit within national territory. With the introduction of the new legislation, which makes no distinction between foreigners and Brazilians migrating within the country, Brazil's new migration policy finds its base on the repudiation and prevention of xenophobia, racism, and all other forms of discrimination.

The piece of legislation also guarantees full protection and defense of the interests of migrant children and adolescents; compliance with provisions from international conventions, treaties, and agreements; the protection of Brazilians abroad; the promotion of academic knowledge and professional exercise in Brazil; and the rejection of mass deportations and banishment.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira