Living in Brazil: the ultimate expat guide

Expats planning to move to Brazil must apply for the appropriate visa before arrival. Applications are mostly completed online via Brazil's official visa portal, followed by document submission at a consulate.

Visas for Brazil

1. Short-stay visa – for tourism, business trips, or short cultural exchanges under 90 days. Many nationalities (including those from Europe and the U.S.) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
2. Temporary work visa – for those with a valid job offer from a Brazilian employer; valid up to two years and renewable.
3. Digital nomad visa – for remote workers earning at least USD 1,500/month; valid for one year.
4. Student/volunteer/artist visa – allows longer stays for study, volunteering, or cultural work; duration depends on program length.
5. Permanent visa – for skilled professionals, family reunification, or investors contributing to the Brazilian economy; offers full residency rights.
6. Retirement visa – for retirees; initially valid for two years, after which permanent residency may be granted.
7. Investment visa – for investors contributing a minimum of BRL 150,000 (USD 27,623) to a Brazilian business or real estate venture.

🔍 To learn more

Brazil's growing and diverse economy offers many opportunities for skilled expatriates, especially in sectors that support innovation, sustainability, and infrastructure. While competition can be high, professionals with specialized skills and Portuguese language proficiency are well placed to find rewarding roles.

Jobs in demand for expats

1. Information technology: software development, cybersecurity, AI, and data analysis roles are expanding, especially in São Paulo's tech sector.
2. Engineering: civil, mechanical, and environmental engineers are needed for infrastructure, energy, and mining projects.
3. Education: qualified teachers and university lecturers, particularly those fluent in English, find opportunities in international and private schools.
4. Healthcare: doctors, nurses, and medical researchers are in demand, particularly in private healthcare networks.Agribusiness: specialists in agricultural technology, logistics, and export operations support Brazil's vast farming industry.
5. Finance and business services: demand remains steady for financial analysts, accountants, and consultants in multinational and domestic firms.
6. Renewable energy: engineers and project managers are sought for wind, solar, and bioenergy expansion projects.
7. Entrepreneurs benefit from Brazil's expanding domestic market and government incentives in innovation, sustainability, and technology. Foreign entrepreneurs are welcome, particularly in technology, sustainability, education, and digital services — sectors that align with Brazil's current development priorities. However, the business registration process can be bureaucratic.

Key employment facts and figures

Data correct as of October 2025

Sources: IBGE News Agency, LeadIQ, Agencia Brasil

🔍 To learn more

Brazil is an increasingly attractive destination for international students due to its diverse academic programs, growing research opportunities, and cultural experiences. The country offers competitive tuition fees, a vibrant student life, and the chance to study in one of Latin America's largest economies. Many universities now offer programs in English, particularly at the postgraduate level, making it more accessible for international students.

Brazil's top universities include:

University of São Paulo (USP) – São Paulo: the largest and most prestigious university in Brazil, strong in research and international partnerships.

University of Campinas (UNICAMP) – Campinas, São Paulo state: renowned for engineering, technology, and innovation programs.

Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) – Rio de Janeiro: offers programs across sciences, humanities, and arts.

Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) – Belo Horizonte: known for research in science, technology, and medicine.

🔍 To learn more

Retiring in Brazil is an attractive option for many expatriates due to the country's warm climate, vibrant culture, and relatively affordable cost of living. Brazil offers a specific retirement visa for those who can demonstrate a stable income from pensions, social security, or other retirement funds.

Expats are free to buy property in Brazil, allowing them to settle permanently.

Popular retirement destinations include:

1. Florianópolis: offers beaches, good infrastructure, and mild tropical weather.
2. Natal: famous for pristine beaches, warm weather year-round, and a relaxed vibe.
3. São Paulo: ideal for retirees seeking an active city lifestyle with top healthcare, museums, theaters, and dining.
4. Fortaleza: affordable, cultural, and oceanfront
5. Rio de Janeiro: offers city life alongside world-famous beaches, vibrant culture, and dining.
6. Balneário Camboriú: a luxury beach destination in southern Brazil known for high-end real estate and a lifestyle favored by Brazil's affluent.
7. Many retirees come from Portugal, the United States, and Argentina, drawn by both the culture and the relatively lower cost of living.

You will need to wait until you arrive in the country before opening a bank account in Brazil. Having a CPF (tax identification number) is essential before opening any account and is required for virtually all financial, legal, and administrative transactions. Some banks may also need a Brazilian phone number, so using a reputable bank branch in a major city is the easiest way for expats to get started. Online banking is widely used, and many banks provide English-language support.

And when it comes to expats and tax, it is important to note that the country's tax system is complex and depends on your residency status.

Tax residency: expats become tax residents if they spend more than 183 days in Brazil within a 12-month period or hold a permanent visa. Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on Brazilian-source income.

Income tax (IRPF): personal income tax rates are progressive, and employers typically withhold income tax at source for employees.

Social security contributions: if employed or self-employed in Brazil, expats must contribute to the country's social security system.

🔍To learn more

Brazil's health care system is a mix of public and private services. The public system provides free care to residents, but it can be overcrowded and slow for non-emergency treatments. Private health care offers faster access, modern facilities, and international-standard care, making it popular among expats and wealthier Brazilians.

Expats don't automatically get access to free public health services in Brazil. Only those with temporary or permanent residency visas—such as work, student, retirement, or family visas—can use the public system. Short-term visitors or tourists must rely on private health insurance, and even residents often choose private coverage for faster access to doctors, hospitals, and treatments.

🔍 To learn more

Expat children can generally find schooling options without major difficulties in Brazil, especially in major cities. International schools cater specifically to foreign families, offering instruction in English or other languages and following international curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or American programs. These schools provide a smoother transition for children who may not speak Portuguese fluently.

Brazil also has a vast network of public and private schools. Public schools are free and available nationwide, but teaching is primarily in Portuguese, and resources can be limited in some areas. Private schools in Brazil often have smaller class sizes, additional extracurricular activities, and higher academic standards, making them a popular choice for expat families.

Finding housing in Brazil is generally straightforward, but availability and cost vary greatly depending on the city or region. Major urban centers offer a wide range of options, while smaller towns provide more affordable alternatives. Expats can choose to rent or buy, although purchasing property involves legal steps and fees.

Housing options in Brazil

São Paulo – modern apartments and high-rise condos in city centers; townhouses and larger apartments in suburban areas.

Rio de Janeiro – beachfront apartments, high-rise city apartments, and houses in suburban neighborhoods.

Florianópolis – coastal apartments and small houses, popular for expatriates seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Belo Horizonte – affordable apartments and family homes in both city and suburban areas.

Brasília – apartments in planned residential sectors; houses in satellite towns surrounding the capital.Smaller towns/rural areas – spacious houses, farm properties, and apartments at lower rental costs.

🔍 To learn more

Relocating to Brazil requires careful planning, especially when it comes to shipping your belongings. Legal residents can import personal and household items duty-free, but there are restrictions on certain goods, and all shipments must meet strict deadlines. Working with an experienced international moving company and a local agent in Brazil can help navigate customs, ensure proper documentation, and prevent delays at ports of entry.

Before moving, expats need to prepare key documents, including a CPF (tax ID), residence card, passport copies, and a detailed inventory of items to be imported. Some items, such as electronics, furniture, clothing, and professional equipment, can be brought in easily, while others, like vehicles and foodstuffs, may face duties or require special permits. Insurance for shipped goods is highly recommended, and costs are typically paid in two instalments—half at loading and the remainder on delivery. Planning ahead and enlisting professional help makes moving to Brazil smoother and less stressful.

🔍To learn more

Life in Brazil is full of energy, color, and movement. From golden beaches and lush rainforests to bustling city streets, there's always something to see, do, or try. Expats quickly discover that leisure here isn't just about relaxing—it's a chance to join vibrant local traditions, meet people, and stay active, whether on the sand, in the water, or on the sports field.

Popular leisure activities and sports in Brazil

1. Beaches and water sports: surfing, kitesurfing, sailing, scuba diving, and beach volleyball are widely practiced along Brazil's 7,500 km coastline.
2. Football (soccer): Brazil's most beloved sport, with games played year-round; both watching and playing are popular pastimes.
3. Futevôlei: a unique beach sport combining volleyball and soccer, played without using hands.
4. Court sports: volleyball, basketball, futsal (indoor football), and tennis are popular, often organized through clubs or schools.
5. Martial arts and Capoeira: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, mixed martial arts, and Capoeira— a combination of dance and martial arts—are practiced nationwide.
6. Outdoor activities: hiking, golf, and running are common, with many trails and parks available.
7. Gym and fitness classes: yoga, Pilates, and weight training are widely offered in local gyms.
8. Formula 1 and motorsports: popular spectator sports with events in major cities.

🔍 To learn more

A strong sense of community and family characterizes daily life in Brazil. Social interactions often occur in public spaces such as parks, cafes, and plazas. The pace of life can vary; urban areas tend to be fast paced, while rural regions offer a more relaxed lifestyle.

Brazilian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and meals are often shared with family and friends, reflecting the country's emphasis on social connections.

Safety is a consideration in certain areas, and expatriates should stay informed about local conditions. It's advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings.

🔍To learn more

The cost of living in Brazil can vary widely depending on the city and lifestyle you choose. São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are the most expensive, while smaller towns and coastal areas are generally more affordable. Housing, healthcare, transport, and groceries differ between regions, but overall, expats can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at lower costs than in many Western countries, particularly outside the major urban centers.

Data correct as of October 2025

Source: Numbeo.