Official decree document with Brazilian government letterhead and stamp

Official decree document of the Brazilian government, with letterhead and stamp, representing federal normative acts.

About this subject

Decrees are administrative acts under the exclusive authority of the President of the Republic, as per Article 84 of the 1988 Federal Constitution. They serve to regulate laws, organize public administration, appoint officials, or declare states of emergency. The letterhead and stamp confer authenticity: the letterhead identifies the issuing body (usually the Presidency or a ministry), while the stamp officializes the date and signature of the competent authority. In Brazil, decrees are numbered sequentially and published in the Official Gazette (Diário Oficial da União) to have legal validity. Typical structure includes a preamble with legal basis, recitals justifying the measure, and articles defining provisions. Since the Empire, decrees have been central governance tools, such as Decree No. 1,171 of 1994 establishing the Public Servant Ethics Code. The image shows a symmetric copy with midday lighting, highlighting the formality and hierarchy of Brazilian normative acts.

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 issued by the President to regulate a law or handle matters under his exclusive authority, without legislative approval.

Where are federal decrees published?

Federal decrees are published in the Official Gazette (Diário Oficial da União), section 1, and also on the Planalto website (www.planalto.gov.br). Publication is required for them to take effect.

Can a decree be annulled?

Yes, by revocation by the President, by declaration of unconstitutionality by the Supreme Federal Court (STF), or by illegality judgment by the Judiciary.