Official decree document with Brazilian government letterhead and stamp

Close-up of an official Brazilian government decree document with letterhead and stamp, captured at twilight.

About this subject

Decrees are administrative acts issued exclusively by the head of the Executive branch, whether federal, state, or municipal. In Brazil, the 1988 Federal Constitution establishes that decrees are used to regulate laws, appoint authorities, create public agencies, or set general norms. The depicted document displays the official letterhead of the Brazilian government, typically featuring the Republic's coat of arms, and a stamp that certifies authenticity. The production of such documents follows strict security standards, including currency paper, watermarks, and special inks to prevent forgery. The close-up photograph taken at twilight highlights the paper's texture and stamp details, evoking the formality and historical significance of these acts. Presidential decrees, such as those that instituted the Plano Real (1994) or the Bolsa Família program (2003), have transformed the country's economy and social policy. Each decree is numbered and published in the Official Gazette of the Union, becoming law after the president and the responsible minister sign it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a decree and a law in Brazil?

A law is approved by the Legislative branch (National Congress) and sanctioned by the president. A decree is an act of the Executive branch that regulates the law, without creating new rights or obligations, only detailing its application.

Where are federal decrees published?

Federal decrees are published in the Official Gazette of the Union (DOU), in print and digital formats. Publication is mandatory for the act to have legal validity.

Can a decree be revoked?

Yes, a decree can be revoked by a later decree or by a law covering the same subject. Revocation can be express or tacit.