roddiesho
American expat in Brazil
Forum posts
1006
Contacts
6
About me
American
Speaks Fluent Funny and A little Brazilian Portuguese. After I say Bom Dia, you are on your own.
Registration: 10 November 2022
New scam stolen CPF by NewBrazil
my girlfriend CPF just got stolen she got a WhatsApp telling her she need to pay a fine. We tracked the phone number to Santos just near São Paulo. Now she going to Federal Police and her bank to do a report and also there a website from the ...
@NewBrazil Not sure who posted it, but a previous post about using their boyfriends, girlfriends CPF can lead to situations like this. Protect it like you would your USA Social Security Number.Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
Tried to use my girlfriend CPF by NewBrazil
I was at a grocery store as a experiment I put my girlfriend CPF in but the cashier said it didn’t work. Did it twice still didn’t work. When I put my CPF it works. I found it strange it didn’t work. This was just using a regular ...
@NewBrazil I would find a new hobby. Except for @abthree, none of us is an expert in Brazilian law and I would not tamper with someone else's id that was government issued. No good could come out of it.This could have ramifications down the line. ... Read More
Brazilian Employment // Occupancy Law by roddiesho
I am posting this for a bit of feedback on Brazilian Law. Our Idyllic life in Brazil had a major problem when my wife's second in command made what my wife and I (and any adult 30 and over) would consider a major misstep.The bottom line was that she ...
@mjs30170 Given how difficult it is to find good, hard-working employees in Brazil, especially domestic help you can trust, you might want to find a way to get over this: she is young and invited someone over to her home -- unless you expressly ... Read More
Managing meals in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Managing meals day-to-day can sometimes be a real mental challenge, even more so when you land in a new environment, with different schedules, habits or ingredients. How do you manage your meal routine as an expat in Brazil? We ...
Cheryl,Just to get it out of the way as Dave Ramsey says, "I live like no one else" Due to a combination of care for my Brazilian Born 2nd mother and my 99year old Father's last wish to watch over her and that thing called an exchange rate I moved ... Read More
Christmas in Brasil by Kat2202
Hi everyone, I will be arriving in Brazil in a few days. But worried as I will be spending Christmas alone this year and would prefer to travel rather than stay at my place. Don't want to get depressed or sad, so im looking for input on ...
@Kat2202 I live in a very small village in Northeastern Brazil. Since I don't know where you are located now and how much travel you would do from there, I would generally suggest getting comfortable in your place with some cold or hot cocoa ... Read More
Brazilian Employment // Occupancy Law by roddiesho
I am posting this for a bit of feedback on Brazilian Law. Our Idyllic life in Brazil had a major problem when my wife's second in command made what my wife and I (and any adult 30 and over) would consider a major misstep.The bottom line was that she ...
@Peter Itamaraca Thanx! I am guessing we covered it all. Other than this misstep we always had a great relationship, so I forsee it has ended there. I especially never underestimate my wife. Even though she never graduated from High School, she is ... Read More
Brazilian Employment // Occupancy Law by roddiesho
I am posting this for a bit of feedback on Brazilian Law. Our Idyllic life in Brazil had a major problem when my wife's second in command made what my wife and I (and any adult 30 and over) would consider a major misstep.The bottom line was that she ...
@Peter Itamaraca So since you were nice enough to help me with my situation I will provide the context. We live in Northeastern Brazil in a very, very large property. There are three houses on the property. My wife and 98year old mother, Mine and ... Read More
Brazilian Employment // Occupancy Law by roddiesho
I am posting this for a bit of feedback on Brazilian Law. Our Idyllic life in Brazil had a major problem when my wife's second in command made what my wife and I (and any adult 30 and over) would consider a major misstep.The bottom line was that she ...
@Peter Itamaraca 1). YES, everything was in her contract 2). We built the house on the property that also has my house and my wife's house, so it was never abandoned. Just interested to know if she and her family just lived in the house weather ... Read More
Brazilian Employment // Occupancy Law
I am posting this for a bit of feedback on Brazilian Law. Our Idyllic life in Brazil had a major problem when my wife's second in command made what my wife and I (and any adult 30 and over) would consider a major misstep.The bottom line was that she ... Read More
Car rental outside airport for regular trips by Kat2202
I have a question and it may have been covered on another thread but i can't find info.Can I rent a car from local car rental agencies using only my valid US driver's license? I plan to rent a car occasionally for weekends or short trips. Since I ...
@Kat2202 This is from an experience I had in the USA (Logan Airport), so it may not happen in Brazil. I rented a car at an airport car rental location. Unfortunately, it was a busy weekend, and I was extremely close to them not having anything since ... Read More
US Phone Number by alan279
Google just terminated my virtual phone number. Where can I get a new US phone number?
@Marcos999 October 22nd and the majority of weeks before I have been able to call the USA SSA with no problem. I do have a special number Verizon got me (301) area code that covers my Brazilian Phone number and of course, I have a VPN. In the near ... Read More
Regular IDP works in Brazil for a year? by mdorn934
I’m moving permanently to Floripa in 5 months and want to know if Brasil accepts a regular IDP for a driver’s license until I get my Brasilian one? I know they are only good for a year.Thanks!
@abthree Well we didn't get on the road the same way, but we ended up in the right place. Yes, my wife got her IDP using my daughters address while her USA Driver's license was still good. Since she failed the Brazilian Drivers test twice, the IDP ... Read More
Opened Account with Banco Do Brazil. Do I Need to Inform? by roddiesho
Do I need to inform someone? This was in my EXPAT - E-MAIL. "Many expatriates still don't realize they must declare their foreign bank accounts to their home country's authorities. If you've moved to Brazil, Poland, or the UAE and opened bank ...
@abthree Thanx! You are very helpful; I would never confuse you for an ordinary "tax advisor"I do not Forsee this happening in the future. When I first came here three years ago, my brother sentme an extra $10,000 from the sale of our parents' ... Read More
Regular IDP works in Brazil for a year? by mdorn934
I’m moving permanently to Floripa in 5 months and want to know if Brasil accepts a regular IDP for a driver’s license until I get my Brasilian one? I know they are only good for a year.Thanks!
@abthree Apparently my wife got an IDP using our daughter's American Adress in order to get her Brazilian Driver's License. Since we basically got our MD. Driver's License on the same day (we were born 5 days apart) and they both expire in 2027, I ... Read More
Opened Account with Banco Do Brazil. Do I Need to Inform?
Do I need to inform someone? This was in my EXPAT - E-MAIL. "Many expatriates still don't realize they must declare their foreign bank accounts to their home country's authorities. If you've moved to Brazil, Poland, or the UAE and opened bank ... Read More
Managing mailboxes or PO boxes in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Something as simple as receiving mail can become a whole new experience when you settle in Brazil as an expat. Mailing management can indeed be different from what you are used to. In order to help other expats and soon-to-be ...
@alan279 My mother's maiden name appears on my birth certificate.Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
Visa requirements for American citizens to enter Brasil by Hugodc2000
Hello everybody, since the government of Brasil requires a Visa to USA citizens I can tell that my experience in this area is complicated part of the requirements of this paperwork is inside the Consulate of Brasil in my area San Francisco, I ...
@Hugodc2000 For the future you may consider a direct personal tactic. Every Professional Job I obtained in my major after college was because I knew someone at the company and they recommended me / guided me through the process. Now that I am ... Read More
Managing mailboxes or PO boxes in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Something as simple as receiving mail can become a whole new experience when you settle in Brazil as an expat. Mailing management can indeed be different from what you are used to. In order to help other expats and soon-to-be ...
Great Question Cheryl,As I have mentioned before we live in a very small village (we don't have stop signs or traffic lights). We don't receive "regular mail" Electric Bills are hand-delivered by the Electric Office Staff. Only DHL International ... Read More
How Do You Measure Your Property in Brazil by roddiesho
Admittedly I spent a half-hour on this, so I thought I would ask for help. Being very ahead of the time I wanted to record how much property we have since at some point we would hand it over to our daughter. I was hoping to translate that to acres, ...
@abthree You are absolutely correct, but it's amazing how your viewpoint changes when you get to your 50's and 60's. My wife's sister of many lived in Maryland most of her American life but as she got older, built a huge mansion in our "everyone in ... Read More
How Do You Measure Your Property in Brazil by roddiesho
Admittedly I spent a half-hour on this, so I thought I would ask for help. Being very ahead of the time I wanted to record how much property we have since at some point we would hand it over to our daughter. I was hoping to translate that to acres, ...
@Peter Itamaraca In my family, the fish is ALWAYS Fresh. 😉 Read More
Can You Receive Your Monthly Social Security Payment in Dollars. by roddiesho
I currently receive my social security payment in dollars as an extension of the set-up I made with PayPal before I left the U.S. Now that I am officially a Permanent Resident of Brazil can I still receive my monthly payment in American ...
@abthree Thanx, in the middle of IMMIGRATION 1st and me running around the USA etc. to get my Brazilian Residency I never changed my address for Social Security. I am listed at my brother's home in San Francisco as a default while we sold my ... Read More
Can You Receive Your Monthly Social Security Payment in Dollars.
I currently receive my social security payment in dollars as an extension of the set-up I made with PayPal before I left the U.S. Now that I am officially a Permanent Resident of Brazil can I still receive my monthly payment in American ... Read More
How Do You Measure Your Property in Brazil by roddiesho
Admittedly I spent a half-hour on this, so I thought I would ask for help. Being very ahead of the time I wanted to record how much property we have since at some point we would hand it over to our daughter. I was hoping to translate that to acres, ...
@abthree Well the Big Boss finally got to the point. Our property is worth at least a million in Brazilian money. My biggest fear though is that my daughter will try to sell it instead of realizing that tons of people in America would love to have a ... Read More
Wise Account Blocked by alan279
My Wise Account is temporarily blocked. Message in the app says I need to provide additional information. I tap the Unblock button and the next screen says they have all the information they need. I tap the Got it! button and get nothing.Is this ...
@alan279 My here again gone again friend. I am sure I told you months ago that you could not trust WISE. I went through this experience last year. My bank was not an acceptable bank. I wore white after Labor Day. Who remembers, however it will not ... Read More
Managing retirement savings in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Saving for retirement as an expat in Brazil can be challenging. With different options, rules or even taxation, expats have to understand how it works to make informed decisions. We invite you to share your insights in order to ...
@Pablo888 Rule#9 - Family - I moved to our small village in Northeastern Brazil because this was my Brazilian wife's hometown and she contracted with our Trustee to bring her here and care for my 98 yr. old mother. My wife's sister who lives in MD. ... Read More
Managing retirement savings in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Saving for retirement as an expat in Brazil can be challenging. With different options, rules or even taxation, expats have to understand how it works to make informed decisions. We invite you to share your insights in order to ...
Thanks for asking Cheryl. Mine is simple. My father at 99 asked me and my younger brother to take care of our native-born Brazilian mother, (now 98) if he passed first. When he passed my younger brother, financial wiz and Trustee had made all the ... Read More
How Do You Measure Your Property in Brazil by roddiesho
Admittedly I spent a half-hour on this, so I thought I would ask for help. Being very ahead of the time I wanted to record how much property we have since at some point we would hand it over to our daughter. I was hoping to translate that to acres, ...
@Peter Itamaraca We have a very large compound with three houses, pool, sorvetes shop and three times as much unused land. The house that I live in is built on this land. My wife only knows the area by the Brazilian measurement, not square feet, but ... Read More
How Do You Measure Your Property in Brazil by roddiesho
Admittedly I spent a half-hour on this, so I thought I would ask for help. Being very ahead of the time I wanted to record how much property we have since at some point we would hand it over to our daughter. I was hoping to translate that to acres, ...
@abthree Thanx! I am probably the only one in the family interested in this, but when my wife's business manager makes his annual? visit I will sit in. At some point this will all go to our daughter, and I want to make sure it goes smoothly, since ... Read More
Social Security Form SSA-7162 by nicholsharvey
Has social security recipient ever had to mail form SSA-7162 to the FBU.LISBON? How long did it take to Mail from Rio De Janeiro Brazil to Lisbon Portugal via correio service. It's been 10 days since I mailed it with tracking included and it has not ...
@abthree I am still listed as residing at my brother's house in San Francisco. When I sold my house in the USA and moved to New England to help my dad in his last moments and then sold his house, it was the only set address I had. I plan on going to ... Read More
How Do You Measure Your Property in Brazil
Admittedly I spent a half-hour on this, so I thought I would ask for help. Being very ahead of the time I wanted to record how much property we have since at some point we would hand it over to our daughter. I was hoping to translate that to acres, ... Read More
Fingerprints and criminal records by priscilawolff
Hello I am married to a Brazilian woman and now we are trying to legalize the process here so I can stay in Brazil . Does someone know and can help me to find out how do I get my fingerprints to get my criminal records from the USA . ? Please I ...
@mbright85 Totally Disagree!!! I did mine in Miami and again in R.I. when the first one expired. Several others have done the same. The FBI is a domestic agency. If you want to do a workaround feel free, but in this current environment saving the ... Read More
USA to impose a Whopping 50% Tariff on Brazil! by roddiesho
Roddie in Retirement. 😎
@rraypo Maybe or maybe Trump saw this headline "Brazil’s Supreme Court orders house arrest for former President Bolsonaro, a Trump ally" and he is retaliating. Funny how Brazil had a 10% Tariff from the USA until Bolsonaro was put under house ... Read More
Safe areas in the north of Brazil, coastal or close to the coast. by ltoby955
Looking for suggestions on safe and Ok value for money, also what is the taxation on foreign pensions?
@ltoby955 We built my house on the property as well as another house on the property (we have 3) in about 2 months each. In our area all the homes are built and there are now well-known experts of building homes in our village, so they knock them ... Read More
Building cost in Fortaleza by Joesphwilliams834
Hi looking to put a 2 story building with 4 2 bed apt any idea of cost or best way to go about it
@Joesphwilliams834 Would be interested in the answer. Any idea where in Fortaleza. I live 6 hours away and have been there many times.Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
Safe areas in the north of Brazil, coastal or close to the coast. by ltoby955
Looking for suggestions on safe and Ok value for money, also what is the taxation on foreign pensions?
@ltoby955 I live in a small village of less than 3k 20 minutes away from Jericoacoara. In the three years I have been here in Northeastern Brazil (6 hours from Fortaleza) I have only had very friendly friends and Neighbors and have not witnessed any ... Read More
This is for US citizens my question by NewBrazil
USA Marco Rubio just rejected all of the Head of Brazilian Superior Court Judge Visa to the USA along with his other colleagues and family members. My concern is will this Judge who does seem to run the Country retaliate. He could by rejecting all ...
@NewBrazil Good Question. I am probably sitting it out until 2028. My primary reason coming here and being here now is to be by the side of my 98yr. old Brazilian (2nd.) Mother. I will not leave her side as long as she is with us. After that in due ... Read More
European Vacation Trouble? by roddiesho
Has anyone heard of anything happening to Americans or Tourists going to Europe. My younger brother went to Europe and was scheduled to return on the 21st and complete a very vital task for me to keep me away from ICE. He has not called, and I ...
@abthree Thanx for the reply. I have moved on from worrying about it. My only concern would be that my Brazilian mother who raised us since we were 8yrs. old is in my wife's care and 98. She definitly looks like she will be around for a while, but ... Read More
Road safety in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Brazil as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Brazil, whether ...
@HURTCHRIS "No Right on Red"...well at least you have stop signs and traffic lights.Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
European Vacation Trouble? by roddiesho
Has anyone heard of anything happening to Americans or Tourists going to Europe. My younger brother went to Europe and was scheduled to return on the 21st and complete a very vital task for me to keep me away from ICE. He has not called, and I ...
@abthree Thanx for asking. I was hamstrung because when I checked the notes it said "Europe" and obviously that is quite a challenge if you cannot at least narrow it down to one country.I have not heard from him, but i reminded him a few weeks ago ... Read More
Road safety in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Brazil as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Brazil, whether ...
@Pablo888 Well the first two sound like my Village, except the roads don't have names etc. I am impressed with the memory of the locals, because there is nothing to mark street roads. I do remember the first time I came to my wife's village decades ... Read More
European Vacation Trouble?
Has anyone heard of anything happening to Americans or Tourists going to Europe. My younger brother went to Europe and was scheduled to return on the 21st and complete a very vital task for me to keep me away from ICE. He has not called, and I ... Read More
Has anyone thought about Brazil as a medical destination by NewBrazil
I been working with a local lawyer. We been discussing how cheap Dental, Eye Glass and exams, Hearing Aids cost and just general care. Also certain cities are very supportive of outdoor activities for those who like to run or bike. For example there ...
@NewBrazil There is another reason why this exists. When I was in R.I. to take care of my 99-year-old father, i tried to get much needed dental work done. NO ONE took new patients. I am sure the quality was there but it was all out of reach. I HAD ... Read More
Has anyone thought about Brazil as a medical destination by NewBrazil
I been working with a local lawyer. We been discussing how cheap Dental, Eye Glass and exams, Hearing Aids cost and just general care. Also certain cities are very supportive of outdoor activities for those who like to run or bike. For example there ...
@Pablo888 Can't help but saying my only daughter hit the jackpot with this industry, from an unhappy young adult living in a small room in my house in MD. to an executive making more than six figures with her own spacious luxury place. All because ... Read More
Looking for a job by Canforbra
Hello,I arrived back to brazil in late February. Does anyone know of anyone looking for workers?I am flexible on relocating anywhere in the country and my degree is in Anthropology. I am also flexible on work type and pay as well.Thanks
@Canforbra My recommendation coming to Brazil with an Anthropology Degree is to investigate the more than 25 Historical Museums in Sao Paulo.It was not mentioned but we are assuming you can speak Brazilian Portuguese, if not that would be the very ... Read More
Road safety in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Brazil as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Brazil, whether ...
@Cheryl As usual I represent the outliers since I live in a very small village and we have an almost new car that I bought for my wife, but I also have a driver to get us around at times. I myself do not drive, but my wife does and when she went to ... Read More
Greetings to all here by Will Hewitt
Hey Expat People,Hope this finds you all in good spirits. I’m [William]. I’ve spent the last four years diving into life in Rio and Fortaleza, and I’m super excited to join the ride here with all of you. I’m a massive ...
@Pablo888 Thanx for asking. I have been creating a very non-VLOG channel that requires much more work than usual. I am a huge NFL Football fan, and my aim is to finish and launch my channel before the regular season begins.(I am also a huge game ... Read More
Greetings to all here by Will Hewitt
Hey Expat People,Hope this finds you all in good spirits. I’m [William]. I’ve spent the last four years diving into life in Rio and Fortaleza, and I’m super excited to join the ride here with all of you. I’m a massive ...
@Pablo888 Thanx! Except for my Super Buggy that I talk about on another thread, I do not drive in Brazil and wish those who do well. Where I live in a very small village almost 90% of the population uses motorcycles. Toddlers, young students, ... Read More
Greetings to all here by Will Hewitt
Hey Expat People,Hope this finds you all in good spirits. I’m [William]. I’ve spent the last four years diving into life in Rio and Fortaleza, and I’m super excited to join the ride here with all of you. I’m a massive ...
@Will Hewitt Thanx for all the comments today. Thanx for asking. At 65 I have a very, very short bucket list. Last but not least is my Dune Buggy. More specifically the 2024 Cross TSI Yellow Super Buggy available only at their showroom / factory in ... Read More
Greetings to all here by Will Hewitt
Hey Expat People,Hope this finds you all in good spirits. I’m [William]. I’ve spent the last four years diving into life in Rio and Fortaleza, and I’m super excited to join the ride here with all of you. I’m a massive ...
@Will Hewitt Welcome Will! I represent small village life. I live in a very small village about 6 hours west of Fortaleza and about a half hour from Jericocoara. We live in a very, very large property we built ourselves.Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
Pepper spray by antonioggriffin
Soon I will be researching the polícia federal website about carrying pepper spray.About which states I can and can't carry. Anybody bought this online?
@rraypo I don't know who I owe to be so lucky to be in so many conversations today. Well, it's safe to say I have been almost everywhere (I have a very soft spot for the Maldives though) i want to go and we are very comfortable living in our ... Read More
Raising bilingual children abroad by Ameerah Arjanee
Hello, I am a content writer for Expat Magazine. We are planning on writing an article on the advantages and challenges of raising bilingual (or even trilingual!) children while living abroad as an expat. Parents of the forum, what have been your ...
@Ameerah Arjanee. It depends on the parent. My 2nd. mother from Niteroi raised me from 8yrs old and she lives with us in Northeastern Brazil at 98. She taught me simple phrases and slang. On the other hand, my "I never went to college" ... Read More
Pepper spray by antonioggriffin
Soon I will be researching the polícia federal website about carrying pepper spray.About which states I can and can't carry. Anybody bought this online?
@rraypo SIMBA & PANDORA follow us EVERYWHERE and create much more fear in potential threats. I haven't seen anyone cross to the other side of the street because i had Pepper Spray.Roddie in Retirement 😎aka Roddie 4 Real Read More
Pepper spray by antonioggriffin
Soon I will be researching the polícia federal website about carrying pepper spray.About which states I can and can't carry. Anybody bought this online?
@antonioggriffin Not really planning on doing this, but I was curious. Apparently in the USA, you can purchase it on Amazon. Com. In Brazil my go to on-line retailer TEMU only offers Safety Alarms if you look up pepper spray.Roddie in ... Read More
USA to impose a Whopping 50% Tariff on Brazil!
Roddie in Retirement. 😎 Read More
koetzadvocacia.com.br Haexperience on this advocacy? by Hugodc2000
Hello I am looking for help finding lawyer, I’ve been contacting this office by WhatsApp, the way it is in the world online I am kindly careful,
@Hugodc2000 I have been told that there are very few actual Immigration Attorneys. I was financially scammed by one. Be Careful if that is the type of lawyer you are looking for. Always ask for successful referrals for the type of work you want ... Read More
Apply for Permanent Residency in Brazil versus Consulate Abroad by Latam Expat
Hi all! Thanks first of all to everyone here, on the Brazil forum, who have taken the time to thoughtfully and thoroughly respond to others' questions. It's inspiring to see people helping one another just to make their lives a little easier. My ...
@Latam Expat Definitely follow @abthree's advice. Being a Brazilian Permanent Resident I may add a few others.1) Get accustomed to not comparing Brazilian Portuguese to Spanish. I live in a very small village in Northeastern Brazil Use this time to ... Read More
Keeping an American phone number by seamus452
Hello,We are moving to Spain in September. Does anybody use Google Voice as a way of keeping your American phone number? If so, what have been your experiences, both positive and negative? Also, does anybody recommend alternatives to google ...
@seamus452 Hello! I am on the BRAZIL Expat.com forum but added SPAIN because my brother is planning to move there next year.Your question interested me because I have a Brazilian Phone Number which is almost twice as long as an American one. ... Read More
When can you own property in Brazil? by roddiesho
I just received the "advantages of citizenship" article. Can you own property aka the house I live in that is on my wife's property as a Brazilian Permanent Resident?Roddie in Retirement😎
@Ipanema777 Thanx! Since my entire wife's compound (She has a massive about of land in Northeastern Brazil with three houses she built including mine and our live-in caretaker) is in her name, I will be happy in just making sure everything is set ... Read More
When can you own property in Brazil? by roddiesho
I just received the "advantages of citizenship" article. Can you own property aka the house I live in that is on my wife's property as a Brazilian Permanent Resident?Roddie in Retirement😎
@sjpetzold Thanx. I am absolutely, truly allergic to "it's easy" I am very used to dealing with the opposite. In this case, yes, we were married in the USA, but for various reasons (like not choosing one name on official documents) it did not carry ... Read More
SUS for Dummies by alan279
I need to learn what services SUS offers and how to navigate the bureaucracy. Can anyone point me to a "SUS for Dummies"?Thanks.Alan
@alan279 Well Mr. Fairweather Friend. Now I know why I haven't received any DMs from you lately. Looks like the train is back on track. Thanx for NOT telling me.Roddie in Retirement🤔 Read More
SUS for Dummies by alan279
I need to learn what services SUS offers and how to navigate the bureaucracy. Can anyone point me to a "SUS for Dummies"?Thanks.Alan
@alan279 Well Mr. Fairweather Friend. I see now why I have not had any DMs from you lately. Looks like the train is back in motion. Thanx for NOT letting me know.Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
Most common scams in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Brazil as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
@Peter Itamaraca Well, like I said I don`t consider it a scam and it only happened one time, but I live in a very, very small village with almost as many dogs, cats, bulls, chickens, horses and enough small lizards to have a party. Still It is good ... Read More
Most common scams in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Brazil as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
@CherylThe one challenge I have had in Brazil was not a Scam, but important to know.1). I Almost Always use Cash. I used my credit card to pay for gas one time and money was lifted from my account (not much) and used in a Rio de Janeiro ATM. Of ... Read More
When can you own property in Brazil? by roddiesho
I just received the "advantages of citizenship" article. Can you own property aka the house I live in that is on my wife's property as a Brazilian Permanent Resident?Roddie in Retirement😎
@abthree Great!!! I am still very, very comfortable...You know you are in the right family when you casually stop by your grandmother's house (my wife's mother), and she is on her porch getting a pedicure. 🙂 Read More
When can you own property in Brazil? by roddiesho
I just received the "advantages of citizenship" article. Can you own property aka the house I live in that is on my wife's property as a Brazilian Permanent Resident?Roddie in Retirement😎
@abthree If I remember correctly, I am a Brazilian Permanent Resident because of my daughter. How will that work with any property that my wife wants to add me to. Do we have to get married again in Brazil or should I work all this thru my daughter. ... Read More
When can you own property in Brazil?
I just received the "advantages of citizenship" article. Can you own property aka the house I live in that is on my wife's property as a Brazilian Permanent Resident?Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
Tragic Fatal Hot Air Balloon Accident in Brazil
Anyone hear about this.Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
Brazil birth certificate by fmg0625
Can a woman who gave birth to a child in 2009 have the birth certificate dated 2010, and what would be the fee for registering a child a year after its birth?
Welcome to Brazil. When I met my wife a long time ago, I realized that she and her sisters were all named Maria. Apparently, her mother had a lot of girls, named them all maria and registered them all at once a few years after their birth.Roddie in ... Read More
Ouch! Social Security Hack!
I am still in the early stages of investigating this, but I just lost almost $200 from my monthly Social Security deposit.Has anyone else received a different amount this month?Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
Best Place to Live in Spain: Retired with a Middle School Daughter.
Hello! I am making a brief appearance from Expat.Com / Brazil where I live since my younger brother is planning on moving to Spain this Spring from the USA with his young daughter.Best Regards, Roddie😎 Read More
iOF Increase by alan279
What's up with the IOF increase?
@alan279 Sorry to jump in on a related topic, but I have always wondered. My 98-year-old Brazilian 2nd. mother often switches between English and Brazilian Portuguese for no reason when talking to me (I prefer English). I always wondered if this was ... Read More
What makes you happy in your expat city in Brazil or elsewhere? by Ameerah Arjanee
Hello, I am a content writer for Expat Magazine, and we are planning on writing an article about what makes expats feel happy in the city where they live. We could love to get some testimonials from expats living in Brazilian cities (or Brazilian ...
@Ameerah Arjanee Thanks for Asking! I have been coming to Brazil for the last 50 years when my father married a Brazilian native from Niteroi. I now live in a very small village in Northeastern Brazil with my Brazilian mother of 98, my Brazilian ... Read More
WhatsAappiflication by alan279
Seems like communication in Brazil is mostly via WhatsApp.
@alan279 Yes, good sir.Roddie in Retirement😎 Read More
SUS for Dummies by alan279
I need to learn what services SUS offers and how to navigate the bureaucracy. Can anyone point me to a "SUS for Dummies"?Thanks.Alan
@alan279 Sorry, I seem to be spending a whole lot of time under the rock. Did not know you were back. Anyway 2 things. 1). Obviously, I am glad your back. 2). I have mobility issues that will probably require surgery, I am ... Read More
Residence Card Processing Time by sovelong
I'm talking about picking up the physical card from the Policia Federal in SP. I already had the appointment and everything was approved. On the SISMIGRA site it has said this since April 8th: Seu documento foi produzido e está em ...
@Peter Itamaraca Good to know! I would normally request feedback from our resident EXPAT.COM expert, but in reality, I will always be me.... An American Living the Good Life in Brazil...i would always go to the American aka Foreigners line ... Read More
Residence Card Processing Time by sovelong
I'm talking about picking up the physical card from the Policia Federal in SP. I already had the appointment and everything was approved. On the SISMIGRA site it has said this since April 8th: Seu documento foi produzido e está em ...
@thetravelfox Good Luck! My wife and my lawyer picked it up for me. I do not plan to leave the country and use it for several years.... I do have some great YouTube videos of navigating around Sao Paulo airport, but that is the closest ... Read More
Residence Card Processing Time by sovelong
I'm talking about picking up the physical card from the Policia Federal in SP. I already had the appointment and everything was approved. On the SISMIGRA site it has said this since April 8th: Seu documento foi produzido e está em ...
@sovelong I live in the Northeast, and it was a year ago, but I believe it was about 5 weeks.Roddie in Retirement🕵P.S. I stopped believing in accurate website information around the time I learned Santa Claus was not real. 🙄 Read More
Re-entering Brazil with unregistered Nomad Visa? by seriouscatsoserious
Hey all! Quick questionEntered Brazil in January with a valid Nomad VisaMade appointment to see PF in March (first available)Went to appointment and was told I needed to get the paperwork fixed for errors the consulate madeGot those fixedSet another ...
@Peter Itamaraca It did! I used a Pretender, and it cost me much money and six months.Roddie in Retirement🕵 Read More
Re-entering Brazil with unregistered Nomad Visa? by seriouscatsoserious
Hey all! Quick questionEntered Brazil in January with a valid Nomad VisaMade appointment to see PF in March (first available)Went to appointment and was told I needed to get the paperwork fixed for errors the consulate madeGot those fixedSet another ...
@seriouscatsoserious I will be as positive as possible. First of all, get a real Immigration Lawyer who has actually done this before. I spent thousands of dollars and over 6 months with one that was not a REAL Immigration Lawyer. Second, watch your ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@Danca33 Welcome and get plenty of rest. Hands Down the MOST difficult thing I ever did was bring my Beagle Mix, SIMBA, from Boston`s Logan Airport to the airport in Jericocoara. If you can go thru past threads there are a few that will tell you ... Read More
Retirement Visa for Brazil by abthree
The Brazilian Government has approved a replacement for the old Permanent Visa for Retirees, that was eliminated for new applicants as part of the 2017 Immigration Reform. As was the case with the old Permanent Visa (VIPER) for family reunion, the ...
@Viajanete Congratulations😎 Read More
New question RNE vs RNN by NewBrazil
There been reports when coming back from the USA the Airline are not honoring the RNE residents document. They are saying you need a VISA. The RNN seem to be the only one they accept. Their excuse is the Brazilian government hasn’t clarified ...
@abthree First of all, thanks for going the extra mile. Sorry, I have been working with Adobe CC for the last hour and a half on my channel and my brain is mush. I am trying to wrap my head aroundif the foreigner has a valid CRNM and hasn't been out ... Read More
New question RNE vs RNN by NewBrazil
There been reports when coming back from the USA the Airline are not honoring the RNE residents document. They are saying you need a VISA. The RNN seem to be the only one they accept. Their excuse is the Brazilian government hasn’t clarified ...
@bepmoht Example: A U.S. passport holder who lives in Brazil with a CRNM or RNE should have Brazil listed as their country of residence—even though their passport is from the U.S.Good Example, that`s me, but where should they have Brazil ... Read More
New question RNE vs RNN by NewBrazil
There been reports when coming back from the USA the Airline are not honoring the RNE residents document. They are saying you need a VISA. The RNN seem to be the only one they accept. Their excuse is the Brazilian government hasn’t clarified ...
@abthree Thanx as always "Airline employees ... can usually be helped to understand"Considering I now walk with a cane I am sure a video of that would go viral.I too will not be traveling soon, though my first reason is that I vowed as the ... Read More
New question RNE vs RNN by NewBrazil
There been reports when coming back from the USA the Airline are not honoring the RNE residents document. They are saying you need a VISA. The RNN seem to be the only one they accept. Their excuse is the Brazilian government hasn’t clarified ...
@abthree - I need your wise counsel. I have my Brazilian Permanent Residency, but I am not familiar with whether or not I need one of these when I travel to the USA.Roddie in Retirement🕵 Read More
Brazilian National ID Card by roddiesho
At some point I will go thru the challenging journey of getting my Brazilian Driver's License. In the meantime I have been researching what other card actually has my resident address on it. My Brazilian Permanent Residency card DOES NOT contain my ...
@jonesio Thanx, I do take exception to the "high crime country" though. I am very protective of Brazils reputation because I have been treated so well here for all the time I have lived here, as well as the fact that most of my family is from ... Read More
1 Year Citizenship route by john8670
From what I understand I can become a citizen within 1 year of living in Brazil with my spouse if: I pass the CELPE-Bras exam or I complete a "Portuguese language course for immigrants in a Brazilian University" Does anyone know if this Portuguese ...
@amelie2301 I am glad it worked for you. I don t like to take chances, especially now in the current environment, the less certain administrations will disqualify you based on workarounds, the FBI is still a domestic agency. I will happily pay for ... Read More
Californian thinking about a move to Brazil by kittykattyyy
Hi everyone!I am a native Californian that’s always been interested in moving to Brazil. I am learning Portuguese currently and will study abroad there (learning Portuguese) in maybe December of this year. I want to get a feel of Rio of ...
@kittykattyyy Your Welcome! This is still real estate but does require a different skill set. My family in the United States as well as here in Brazil have always been Builders. My late father and his father before him built my Dad's house as well ... Read More
Californian thinking about a move to Brazil by kittykattyyy
Hi everyone!I am a native Californian that’s always been interested in moving to Brazil. I am learning Portuguese currently and will study abroad there (learning Portuguese) in maybe December of this year. I want to get a feel of Rio of ...
@ibdegen Sorry, there are few Expats in Niteroi because we moved away. I grew up (since I was 10) hanging out at my Brazilian Mothers house in Niteroi and taking the Hydrofoil from Niteroi to Rio (not sure they still exist). The ferry took about ... Read More
Californian thinking about a move to Brazil by kittykattyyy
Hi everyone!I am a native Californian that’s always been interested in moving to Brazil. I am learning Portuguese currently and will study abroad there (learning Portuguese) in maybe December of this year. I want to get a feel of Rio of ...
@kittykattyyy I could not agree more with Peter Itamaraca. The best way is to simply bring money with you if you know you will definitly relocate here. I am also tirelessly working on my YouTube channel. When it is finally launched, I will have that ... Read More
Californian thinking about a move to Brazil by kittykattyyy
Hi everyone!I am a native Californian that’s always been interested in moving to Brazil. I am learning Portuguese currently and will study abroad there (learning Portuguese) in maybe December of this year. I want to get a feel of Rio of ...
@abthree kittykattyyy's thread came across my computer with NO responses. As I started to respond the other responses came on. 😎 Read More
Californian thinking about a move to Brazil by kittykattyyy
Hi everyone!I am a native Californian that’s always been interested in moving to Brazil. I am learning Portuguese currently and will study abroad there (learning Portuguese) in maybe December of this year. I want to get a feel of Rio of ...
@kittykattyyy Good Idea. This is a question for @abthree. So apparently my thread was old and did not initially have @abthree's response. I will only emphasis that hardly anyone speaks English in Brazilso, the more you learn ahead of time the ... Read More
Brazilian citizenship question by BraGringa
Hi all, don't know if anyone else might have encountered this situation. My child was born in the United States; he has one U.S. parent and one Brazilian parent. His birth certificate was transcribed in a cartorio in Brazil, and they added the ...
@BraGringa Sorry to hear that. It sounds like the situation started when you went to the Catoria andHis birth certificate was transcribed in a cartorio in Brazil, and they added the notation that he had to opt for Brazilian citizenship after turning ... Read More
Retirement Visa for Brazil by abthree
The Brazilian Government has approved a replacement for the old Permanent Visa for Retirees, that was eliminated for new applicants as part of the 2017 Immigration Reform. As was the case with the old Permanent Visa (VIPER) for family reunion, the ...
@Hugodc2000 Good Luck. I am not sure I completely follow, however while I was traveling back to Brazil after going to the USA for documents for my Brazilian Permanent Residency, Brazil did detain me for several hours at Immigration in Sao Paulo ... Read More
Beach Trike by alan279
I'm thinking about buying a beach trike. Would it be quickly stolen?
@alan279 Sounds Good, just don`t go crazy when you take the next turn and see that HUGE advertising Billboard on the shoulder.Roddie back from the rock 🕵 Read More
Retirement Visa for Brazil by abthree
The Brazilian Government has approved a replacement for the old Permanent Visa for Retirees, that was eliminated for new applicants as part of the 2017 Immigration Reform. As was the case with the old Permanent Visa (VIPER) for family reunion, the ...
@thetravelfox Congratulations...I had a friend contact their friend who worked at the consulate on my behalf,The friend of a friend at the Brazilian Consulate worked for me too in getting my Brazilian Permanent Residency. I never cease to recommend ... Read More
Brazilian National ID Card by roddiesho
At some point I will go thru the challenging journey of getting my Brazilian Driver's License. In the meantime I have been researching what other card actually has my resident address on it. My Brazilian Permanent Residency card DOES NOT contain my ...
@abthree Ouch! Well, I am not planning to travel for a few years so that`s it. The car is in my name, so I guess I can take that documentation. I pay the electricity, but I don`t think it is in my name. Glad to know ahead of time anyway. Much ... Read More
Brazilian National ID Card by roddiesho
At some point I will go thru the challenging journey of getting my Brazilian Driver's License. In the meantime I have been researching what other card actually has my resident address on it. My Brazilian Permanent Residency card DOES NOT contain my ...
@MA22 Thanx! As you probably know there has been a storm brewing about coming and going on International Travel. A magazine article advised what you should have handy to show where you live. I realized then that I did not have anything with my ... Read More
Brazilian National ID Card
At some point I will go thru the challenging journey of getting my Brazilian Driver's License. In the meantime I have been researching what other card actually has my resident address on it. My Brazilian Permanent Residency card DOES NOT contain my ... Read More
Brazil, a welcoming destination to expats? by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Brazil, like every new environment, can feel like stepping into the unknown and brings many questions: how will it go, how to integrate successfully, etc. To help smooth this transition, we invite you to share your ...
@Cheryl, I clicked on this and realized it was part of a previous thread. Apparently, I gave many quotes, but as concerns your question. My advice isBefore you land check out the YouTube videos on the airports. i.e. Sao Paulo. ... Read More