Founded by an American. Licensed in Brazil.
The First American to Pass Brazil's Bar Exam
ZS Advogados helps expats, investors, and companies navigate immigration, real estate, business formation, and legal matters in Brazil — with the perspective of someone who has walked the same path.
We respond within 24 hours · All timezones · English & Portuguese
1st American
to pass OAB Exam
OAB Licensed
Brazilian Bar Association
700+
Cases Managed
15+
Years in Brazil
Practice Areas
Complete Legal Coverage for Foreigners in Brazil
Real Estate Lawyer for Foreigners in Brazil
Expert legal guidance for buying property in Brazil. Real estate due diligence, contracts, land titles for expats & foreigners.
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Start a Business in Brazil — Corporate Lawyer for Foreigners
Open business in Brazil as foreigner. Legal structuring, company formation, contracts & compliance for international entrepreneurs.
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Civil Litigation Brazil — English-Speaking Legal Representation
Civil dispute resolution in Brazil. Commercial litigation, collections, enforcement & mediation by English speaking lawyers.
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International Law Firm Brazil — Cross-Border Legal Counsel
International law firm Brazil. Cross-border contracts, foreign investment, arbitration & compliance for multinational businesses.
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Immigration Lawyer Brazil — Visa & Residency for Foreigners
Brazil visa lawyer & immigration attorney. Work visas, investor visas, family reunification & permanent residency for foreigners.
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Family Lawyer Brazil — Divorce, Custody & Estate Planning
Family law attorney in Brazil. Divorce, custody agreements, child support, estate planning & succession for international families.
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He Didn't Just Study International Law — He Lived It
At 18, Zachariah Zagol left the United States for Brazil with nothing but a decision: to build his life here. He learned Portuguese, earned a Brazilian law degree, and became the first American citizen to pass the OAB bar exam.
Then he went further — completing an LL.M. at USC, building multiple businesses, investing in real estate, starting a family. After 15+ years, he founded ZS Advogados to help others navigate the same journey.
When your lawyer has personally experienced every challenge you're facing — immigration paperwork, cultural barriers, bureaucratic complexity — you get a fundamentally different level of guidance.
Legal Guides for Foreigners
Most Requested by International Clients
In-depth guides written specifically for foreigners navigating the Brazilian legal system.
Brazil Investor Visa (VITEM IX) — Complete Guide
Step-by-step guide to Brazil's investor visa: requirements, minimum investment (R$500K), company formation, Central Bank, timelines, renewals, path to permanent residency.
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Buying Property in Brazil as a Foreigner
Complete guide to purchasing real estate in Brazil: requirements, process, costs, documents needed. Learn restrictions, timelines, and practical steps.
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Starting a Business in Brazil — Complete Guide for Foreigners
Register CNPJ, form Limitada, open bank account, get digital certificate. Step-by-step for foreign entrepreneurs.
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Investing in Brazil as a Foreigner — Legal Guide
Register with Central Bank, choose entity structure, manage taxes & remittance rules. Complete legal roadmap for foreign investors.
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Brazilian Citizenship & Dual Nationality
Complete guide to Brazilian naturalization, citizenship by descent, Portuguese requirements, dual nationality, and benefits. Timeline and requirements.
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Estate Planning & Succession for Foreigners in Brazil
Understand Brazilian succession law: compulsory inheritance, testamentos, ITCMD tax, and multi-country asset planning.
Read full guide →Start Here
Not sure where to begin?
Choose your situation and we'll guide you step by step.
Resources
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FAQ
Common Questions from International Clients
Can a foreigner buy property in Brazil?
How can I get a visa to live in Brazil?
How do I start a business in Brazil as a foreigner?
Do you offer consultations in English?
Ready to Talk?
Whether you're moving to Brazil, investing, starting a business, or need legal help as a foreigner — the first step is a conversation.
+55 18 3908-1653 · [email protected] · WhatsApp available