The ruling will give police greater ability to investigate the multiple allegations of wrongdoing Bolsonaro faces.

The search warrant follows police allegations that Bolsonaro's aides used government resources for their personal advantage.

Bolsonaro, who is still in self-exile in the US, will be called to testify as part of the investigation.

The ex-leader is the target of investigations by the federal police and the Brazilian tax agency.

The jewellery allegedly gifted by Saudi Arabia to him and his wife was reportedly brought into the South American nation without being declared to authorities.

More than 27.6 million reais – over US$5 million at today's exchange rate – was charged to the far-right president's card during his four-year term, according to account statements published on a government website.

Bolsonaro had for years sought to cast doubts on the reliability of Brazil's internationally praised election system, and had suggested he would not accept a defeat.

Analysts say the measures proposed in the document would amount to an unconstitutional conspiracy to meddle in the election.

In his third term, Lula will confront a sluggish economy, tighter budget constraints and a more hostile legislature.

He cites Telegram's failure to comply with orders from Brazilian authorities and remove messages found to contain disinformation.

Bolsonaro has had a series of health problems since being stabbed in the abdomen during the 2018 presidential campaign that brought him to power.

Officials say they have received death threats for their role in evaluating and approving Covid-19 vaccines.