Pablo888
American looking for information about Brazil
Forum posts
880
About me
American
Lives in Florianópolis, Sant
Registration: 12 May 2023
Is it hard to become fluent in Brasilian Portuguese ? by hagece8690
FWIW I've passed the Celpe-Bras exam, and can watch videos, read, and communicate verbally with pretty much anyone here like a native, except people from Bahia KKKKKK, and when encountering regionalized slang. The reason I am asking this question, ...
9 Jul 2026@abthree, I am not an expert (yet) in that field but my very preliminary research in the field is that the brain is very plastic and makes new connections all the time. When someone learns a new language, there is much more than a ... Read More
Assimilation: when is enough enough? by alexanderstephenlange
TL; DR some thoughts on plugging in (or not) to the culture/society. All comments welcome! How important to you is assimilation into Brazilian society? Do you even find yourself contemplating it? Is it self-imposed or something unconscious you don't ...
8 July 2026I would love to have a chance to be assimilated - but will never be able to…. I look non-brazilian.Can an expat be assimilated? No, we lack the deep connections with the land, family, and friends that will qualify us to be at par ... Read More
Is it hard to become fluent in Brasilian Portuguese ? by hagece8690
FWIW I've passed the Celpe-Bras exam, and can watch videos, read, and communicate verbally with pretty much anyone here like a native, except people from Bahia KKKKKK, and when encountering regionalized slang. The reason I am asking this question, ...
8 July 2026Language fluency is a difficult to assess as it depends with who one is communicating. Languages change with time and even native speakers can be considered as foreigners - if the language has evolved significantly.I think that what is ... Read More
With fuel prices soaring, how are you getting around in Brazil? by Veedushi
Hello everyone!In many countries, transportation costs are becoming a real challenge for expats. Some are completely changing their habits: using public transport more often, carpooling, switching to scooters… or cycling.In Denmark, for ...
9 Jun 2026Going solar can be very advantageous in Brazil - at least for now. As I understand it, net metering is not yet deployed in the Nordeste - which means when excess solar is pushed back to the grid, the meter goes backwards at the same ... Read More
With fuel prices soaring, how are you getting around in Brazil? by Veedushi
Hello everyone!In many countries, transportation costs are becoming a real challenge for expats. Some are completely changing their habits: using public transport more often, carpooling, switching to scooters… or cycling.In Denmark, for ...
8 Jun 2026Not to digress here… I switched to electric 8 years ago and I never looked back. In the US, charging on a long trip is not a problem.How is the charging network in Brazil? Is there a reliable network that one can use to go on long ... Read More
Can beachfront properties are built on freehold land? by Pablo888
A Mauritius real estate purchase question that I could not find any clarification by searching the forum.Yesterday, I visited a beautiful beachfront property in Calodyne with a real estate agent. Loved almost everything about it except that it was ...
7 Jun 2026@bdt3010, thank you for pointing out Baie du Tombeau. One of my cousins owns a property there and she is building a bungalow. The only thing that bothers me in Baie du Tombeau is the sight of ships going in and out of the port.I am ... Read More
Building a house in Brazil (Armação dos Búzios, RJ) by fred2brazil
Fellow member, I've always found this forum helpful so far. Maybe some of you can help me along further in regards to some questions I have about building a house in Brazil. Maybe some of you have experience in building a house and have gone ...
7 June 2026@fred2brazil - thank you for sharing with us the planning, the ups and downs of building a very modern house in a fantastic part of Brazil…. I am sure that the lucky buyer of the home will be more than happy…. The successful ... Read More
Carnê-Leão by ibdegen
Sorry if this is covered in another topic, but I have not found anything. I am a retired American with a permanent residence visa. I have been paying taxes for the past two years in Brasil and am getting ready to file a return for 2025. For the ...
Yes it does. - @hagece869030 May 2026One more question - does the foreign country tax on world income? US is just like Brazil - i.e. taxes on world income. Tax payments to the IRS tends to be higher than in Brazil and I am counting on ... Read More
Having trouble with credit card and debit card working by NewBrazil
Just when yesterday and today to my local supermarket to buy groceries. When I tried to pay with my international credit card it didn’t work. Called my bank they said everything thing should work. In the same store tryed to use my ...
30 May 2026In Brazil, I found that PIX is more useful than credit cards. I have had several cases where the POS machine would not work - some legitimate and some by preference. It is becoming more and more common that vendors to charge a little ... Read More
Carnê-Leão by ibdegen
Sorry if this is covered in another topic, but I have not found anything. I am a retired American with a permanent residence visa. I have been paying taxes for the past two years in Brasil and am getting ready to file a return for 2025. For the ...
29 May 2026@hagece8690, does the country from which you get foreign income have a tax treaty with Brazil? I suspect that getting a refund from the RF is more straightforward if there were sharing of tax information between the foreign source and ... Read More
Feedback on Mail Forwarding Service / Virtual Address by Pablo888
I have a USPS mailbox where I send stuff related to my small business but USPS has increased prices for a small postal box from $120 about 5 years ago to $220 this year.In addition to the uncontrollable price increases because USPS is bleeding ...
29 Apr 2026I am paying $179.40 per year for the no-frills package and I started in 2025.I chose the cheapest package because I receive practically nothing - 1 letter in 2 years for example. But you have to be careful if you expect to receive many ... Read More
How many here in Brazil had cosmetic or dental medical treatment by NewBrazil
I was just wondering if you had a medical procedure. What was it and how much did it cost. Example having MOHS surgery for a facial nodule that been show to be cancer. Mohs is the surgery that removed this result is 99% cure. In the USA without ...
29 Apr 2026Dental procedures are cheaper in Brazil than in the US. The materials used are different - for example porcelain vs resin based crowns. In the US, the costs are mainly driven by insurance companies and greed.Re: success / ... Read More
Remember: When Changing Phones...
April 4, 2026I just upgraded my phone (twice) recently. The upgrade path was easy but one thing I did not do before wiping out my old phone is:Make sure to login in both the old and new phone and transfer the account from the old to the new by QR ... Read More
The impact of artificial intelligence on the Brazil job market by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Artificial intelligence is driving major changes to the job market in Brazil : task automation, evolving job roles and rise of new skills. For expats and soon-to-be expats, this transformation may raise some key questions on ...
2 March 2026Cheryl, discussing AI on a forum that has a large audience is bound to be controversial. Hence, I am only expressing my views with no desire to sway anyone.I work in the AI field. I have a full time job in the US but I can ... Read More
VPN's ANYONE by Roddie Simmons
Bom Dia! i have had a really rough week. hint my YouTube computer blew up. My quick question is about anyone who has a VPN or would recomend a brand. I currently have EXPRESS VPN and it is usually the best, but with my computer situation, I have to ...
21 Feb 2026I heard a lot of good things about NordVPN. The cursory google search on "Best VPN" gives a good list. The question that you need to ask yourself is "what do you use it for"?For example: If you want to access Brazil content from ... Read More
Cost of living in the USA in 2025 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Every year, we invite you to share your experiences with the cost of living in in the USA, especially in the region or city you live in. Your insights will greatly help members planning their move to the USA or already living ...
December 30, 2025One more thing that is on the rise - insurance costs. With recent devastating and recurring fires in California, fires in the East, floods in the middle and South, hurricanes in the South East, insurance companies are either ... Read More
I was badly hacked in the USA, losing a lot and still am by rraypo
This is just a “for what it’s worthOn September 23rd, I was hacked, quite seriously. I woke up that morning like always, made my coffee, checked my WhatsApp, and then my email. I had a large number of unidentifiable SPAM/SCAM appearing ...
Change all of your passwords now, right now. No bank accounts, credit cards, store accounts, etc., should ever have the same passwords. If you can remember any of your passwords, they are far too simple. They need to long and complex to prevent ... Read More
sophie, saling a pousada in bahia by sophiejacquet
After 20 magical years, it’s time for a new chapter ✨In 2003, I built this Pousada with the dream of creating an artist’s sanctuary — a space for creativity, connarection, and beauty.Life unfolded differently than I had ...
Please send some pictures and details, I'm interested as I live in Brazil - @Joesphwilliams834Nov 3, 2025Not selling anything here - but there are a number of Brits on the forum who can provide information about Brazil. @peter_itamaraca is one of ... Read More
Expats: how do you stretch your Reals further? by Pablo888
Oct 27, 2025The Reals reached US$1 = R$6 briefly this year. FX watchers would have jumped on the opportunity to move more in R$.Now, how do you optimize what you keep in R$ versus in Euro or dollar? The typical aggressive bank interest rate or ETF ...
@Pablo888In the end, is it better to keep cash in the US or move it to Brazil? - @Pablo888 Maybe not keep all your eggs in one basket? 😀 Seriously, do you have accountants in Brazil and the US (and other relevant countries) to advise you? - ... Read More
Expats: how do you stretch your Reals further? by Pablo888
Oct 27, 2025The Reals reached US$1 = R$6 briefly this year. FX watchers would have jumped on the opportunity to move more in R$.Now, how do you optimize what you keep in R$ versus in Euro or dollar? The typical aggressive bank interest rate or ETF ...
@Pablo888 Would a Certificado de Depósito Bancário (CDB) help you? - @alan279 28 Oct 2025Certificate of deposits can be good in Brazil. I am not sure if CDs pay interests as dividends. In the US, dividends are taxable. I was under ... Read More
Expats: how do you stretch your Reals further?
Oct 27, 2025The Reals reached US$1 = R$6 briefly this year. FX watchers would have jumped on the opportunity to move more in R$.Now, how do you optimize what you keep in R$ versus in Euro or dollar? The typical aggressive bank interest rate or ETF ... 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 ...
Well I followed instructions inside the consulate, filled, downloaded documents, and printed the form, I assume that I have to send the form, photos, travel tickets and fees by mail - @Hugodc2000 25 Sept 2025Have you tried the e-visa application ... 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 24 Sept 2025The visa requirement for American citizens have been discussed extensively in the following threadshttps://www.expat.com/en/forum/south-am … -page.htmlhttps://www.expat.com/en/forum/south-am … ... Read More
Quiet place but not isolated by Joseph_in_Monrovia
Hello, Came over this thread and couldn't help sharing my experience.Been to Mauritius a few times and absolutely love it. The island, the people, the culture, the vibe is different and amazing.Yes there are many strays, noticed it too. But they are ...
@Pablo888 Thanks Pablo in fact Mauritius was my new destination but then i found the stray dogs issue over few forums and chats. I know that it sounds a little ridicolous but as a moto rider i ve had a lot of dangerours encounters with stray dogs ... Read More
Approval of citizenship and real-world experience..MJSP/PF by Nomad Mundo
Greetings to all....My citizenship was finally approved last week. The new system (Naturalizar-se Brasileiro) allowed me to do everything on my own. Aside from the PF, I appreciate their system. You're all welcome to share your most current ...
I am at the very final stage; about two weeks ago, two PF agents came to my home around 13:00 on a weekday. - @Jesus H Chrysler 8 Sept 2025How long did the whole process take? Not sure whether the process depends on where you are located... Read More
Three Phase Power in Brasil by alan279
If there are three overhead power lines on every street in my neighborhood, is that 3 phase power? With transformers distributing 127 volt and 220 volt electricity to shops and residences? Does that sound correct?Can I install a 50 kw DC fast ...
Check your meter head. You'll have two hots and a ground, which is called "split phase" but is actually only considered single phase. - @Jesus H Chrysler 8 Sept 2025Are you sure that it is not 2 hots and 1 neutral return? I would never put 1 hot ... 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 ...
29 August 2025Good question Cheryl.I am not retired and I do not think that I will ever be. I might as well behave like I am already retired now.Rule 1- be financially independent. This includes having savings for the rainy day etc…. The ... Read More
Question about money transfer using Wise
29 August 2025I noticed something funny about money transfer using Wise. I am not sure if there is a catch or whether I am doing something wrong. I searched the web and could not find any suitable answer.Here is the question:Background - I am ... Read More
CPF for foreigners by angelicaody
Hi!Does anybody know if getting a CPF on a tourist visa is possible?Thanks
@Latam Expat 27 August 2025Sorry for the delayed response. Re: online purchases - you don't need to have a CPF to do an online purchase. I think that there is a cost limit above which need to have a CPF.Since you have a CPF, I do not see any ... Read More
Cost of living in the USA in 2025 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Every year, we invite you to share your experiences with the cost of living in in the USA, especially in the region or city you live in. Your insights will greatly help members planning their move to the USA or already living ...
26 August 2025FYI - here is a site that has comparative living costs in various cities -> https://livingcost.org/best/united-states Read More
Celpe-Bras Requirement for Brazilian Citizenship by Pablo888
This was a topic that was brought up about a year ago and I wanted to give an update.For those who are applying for citizenship, I just finished the equivalent certification for that requirement.I just finished Level A2 of Portuguese for Foreigners ...
@dedecadaver August 18, 2025The FAAP CELPE BRAS course info is found here -> https://www.faap.br/internacionalizacao/celpe/The Program Director is Silvia Burim.Please do contact them directly. I believe that there is a CELPE BRAS exam in October ... Read More
Three Phase Power in Brasil by alan279
If there are three overhead power lines on every street in my neighborhood, is that 3 phase power? With transformers distributing 127 volt and 220 volt electricity to shops and residences? Does that sound correct?Can I install a 50 kw DC fast ...
@Pablo888 What are the 3 phase issues in Brazil? - @alan279 August 12, 2025I am not sure that there is 3 phase supply in my place. Who knows? I know of some of the problems in British Columbia where I did some work... Nothing is ever perfect. ... Read More
Three Phase Power in Brasil by alan279
If there are three overhead power lines on every street in my neighborhood, is that 3 phase power? With transformers distributing 127 volt and 220 volt electricity to shops and residences? Does that sound correct?Can I install a 50 kw DC fast ...
@alan279 It is difficult to comment on one neighbourhood that I do not know, when there are so many variances all over Brazil...! I do not know what the rating is for your transformers, but it does make sense they will all be rated the same... - ... Read More
Three Phase Power in Brasil by alan279
If there are three overhead power lines on every street in my neighborhood, is that 3 phase power? With transformers distributing 127 volt and 220 volt electricity to shops and residences? Does that sound correct?Can I install a 50 kw DC fast ...
@alan279 7 August 2025If there are 3 lines, it is most likely a 2 phase (110V each) and a neutral. The voltage difference between the 2 - 110V phases is what generates the single phase 220V. If you want to get a 2 phase - 110V, you will have to ... Read More
Tips/timeline for getting a Brazilian credit card by thetravelfox
I am curious from others' experience how long I should expect to wait before getting approved for a credit card? And for that matter, anything In particular I should be doing to increase my odds / limit once I get one?As of last month, I'm all ...
7 August 2025Much appreciated @abthree and @peter_itamaraca for the feedback. Seems like getting a credit card in Brazil is not as important as having access to Pix.Thank you. Read More
Tips/timeline for getting a Brazilian credit card by thetravelfox
I am curious from others' experience how long I should expect to wait before getting approved for a credit card? And for that matter, anything In particular I should be doing to increase my odds / limit once I get one?As of last month, I'm all ...
6 August 2025For Brazil, is it more important to get a local credit card or to have PIX? I believe that PIX has a limit of R$5000 per day - which is typically enough for daily use....Are there as many choices of credit cards with benefits, points, ... Read More
A Hammer Blow to Real Estate Confidence by peterg123
These peoposals on retroactive tax increase on purchase, and compultory 20% sales tax or 30% of profit are going to cause a drop in confidence in Mauritius real estate. Take my own case: Our contractor has endlessly delayed our PDS ...
1 Aug 2025Being Mauritian, I travel to Mauritius often because I have family there. I intended to retire there if I found a house on the beach that I could own 100% but things are so complicated.Since the country's economy is under increasing ... 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?
29 July 2025I suspect that petty crimes will happen where there are areas where there is a lot of wealth. Drug gangs and violence will occur where there is a value chain or market. But in general, a large population will have a larger per capita ... 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 ...
23 July 2025@cheryl, limited driving experience in Brazil - but spent 1 week recently navigating the roads of Recife in Pernambuco....A few observations The roads do not have names posted at corners. Hence if you don't have google maps or ... 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
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 ...
21 July 2025My investigation in dental implants in Recife resulted in estimates of around R$8000 per tooth in the private sector. I am paying $8000 + dental insurance. I would be interested in how to access this service.What is the quality of the ... 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 Jericocoara used to be a must-stop on the old "hippie route" days of the 60s-80s. I'm sure that things are all so different in the region today but back in the early 80s we were told to avoid Jericocoara because of some illness that was ... 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 ... 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 ...
Hi Roddie. How wonderful. Your compound you built sounds fabulous. Would love to hear your thoughts on doing Brazil in a 4wd vehicle? If others can weigh in on this I’m appreciative and ALL EARS👍. Thanks! - @Will Hewitt 20 July ... 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 ...
19 July 2025Welcome to the forum, Will.Re: expat meeting - what city is your base in Brazil? I know that there are small but good groups of expats in João Pessoa, Recife, and Ilha de Itamaracá. I am also aware that there are groups ... Read More
Fish Prices by alan279
I paid R$120 per kilogram today for fresh sea bass filet. And R$95 for fresh salmon filet from Chile.Are these prices typical in other cities in Brazil?
Okay, so what is the price of picanha? - @alan279 Near my apartment: https://delivery.superporecatu.com.br/L … vinos-247/ - @rraypo 17 July 2025How do you select a tender picanha piece for churrasco? And what would be the price for that ... 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 ...
17 July 2025From experience with my children who are not fully fluent in several languages but can manage. Parents should lead by example - i.e speak multiple languages Parents need to have sufficient resources to instill / support an interest in ... Read More
Fish Prices by alan279
I paid R$120 per kilogram today for fresh sea bass filet. And R$95 for fresh salmon filet from Chile.Are these prices typical in other cities in Brazil?
15 July 2025 Just paid R$40 per kilo for a 5kg red snapper. R$ 60 per kilo for a 1.25kg lobster. All on the island and I saw those being offloaded from the fishing boat. For small red snapper (approx 0.5 kg), the price R$10 each. Read More
Did you know there a Digital CRNM App? Of course, there is a catch… by mikehunter
Well, I found that Brasil has a digital CRNM for foreigners. I can’t speak to android but for the iPhone, it’s basically impossible to install - because you have to have your AppleID set up to be Brasilian. My AppleID is US based and I ...
2 July 2025Responding to my own question as I have completed the PF apt to getting the CRNM document. The answer is not easy but here is a broad sketch as it was explained to me. There may have been changes since - this is Brazil.If you ... 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
12 June 2025@alan279, hope that you recover quickly. Read More
Brazil Citizenship Questions by Planetf1
Olá pessoal!I’m a Dutch national currently living in Brazil, and I’m trying to figure out when I’ll be eligible to apply for Brazilian citizenship. I got married to my Brazilian spouse in March 2024 and received permanent ...
June 2, 2025I thought that one of the benefits of getting a Brazilian citizenship if you have a US Passport is that this will allow you to apply for residency in Portugal - hence become a resident of the EU with potential to become a Portuguese ... Read More
Cloudflare verification annoyance. by bepmoht
Am I Human?I don’t know if others have this issue, but when trying to access the site (especially in the evenings) I have to continually select the “CLOUDFLARE” I am human box, sometimes a dozen times or more before I connect to ...
May 29, 2025Here is information on Cloudflare (from ChatGPT) - in summary, this is a web protection tool. Note: VPNs tend to be in a trust zone - hence the explanation to @abthree's experience.**Cloudflare** is a web infrastructure and website ... 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 ...
May 28, 2025When I am on the beach in Ilha de Itamaracá and I close my eyes, I feel like I am on the beach in Grand Baie. The sounds, smells, and the movement of the people around me are the same..... This brings me back to my ... Read More
Brazil Citizenship Questions by Planetf1
Olá pessoal!I’m a Dutch national currently living in Brazil, and I’m trying to figure out when I’ll be eligible to apply for Brazilian citizenship. I got married to my Brazilian spouse in March 2024 and received permanent ...
Thank you so much for all the helpful responses to my earlier post – I really appreciate the guidance and shared experiences! @abthree thanks for sending the link to the FAAP Portuguese course. I’m planning to register for either the ... Read More
Brazil Visitor E-Visa Is Online by Pablo888
All,I have been monitoring the e-visa for Citizen of Australia, Canada, and US deployment progress and this popped up on Dec 1, 2023.https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br/consulado-chicago/Visas/types-of-visa-1/e-visaYou can apply online for the e-visa at ...
As the new e-Visas are now active, this may prove to be a challenge... I just got sent this by a friend: It was a pain to get the passport photo accepted. Newer US passports have a shiny watermark covering the lower right corner of the photo and the ... Read More
FAX fix - here's a solution to an old problem by mberigan
I was going to resurrect an old thread that ended in 2019 (without a solution) BUT decided to revive it here instead as there may be additional new solutions to needing to FAX in this modern age when FAXing is mostly a thing of the past.Old thread: ...
Can confirm faxzero worked in the past. - @Mikeflanagan April 30, 2025Does faxzero work now? I do not know any fax number that I can try to check whether faxzero works... 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
I saw another ophthalmologist. The lens implanted in my cataract surgery a month ago is a tiny bit out of position, resulting in poor vision and dilation. It may not be correctable.I complained to the eye clinic via WhatsApp. The surgeon filed a ... Read More
Brazil Visitor E-Visa Is Online by Pablo888
All,I have been monitoring the e-visa for Citizen of Australia, Canada, and US deployment progress and this popped up on Dec 1, 2023.https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br/consulado-chicago/Visas/types-of-visa-1/e-visaYou can apply online for the e-visa at ...
April 15, 2025Just got feedback from my sister who applied for the E-Visa from Seattle, the turnaround for the visa issue was around 4 days after submission.My brother who applied for the E-Visa from Ottawa, the turnaround was an amazing 2 ... 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 ...
*next to impossible. was typing too fast. must have been overly excited to have this silly letter in hand. - @thetravelfoxApril 5, 2025Congratulations. I used to have an account with Wells Fargo a long time ago - in fact so long that the branch ... Read More
How to renew expired Residency visa. Brazilian child. by n_ali
Finally I have got my visit visa to brazil approved. Can someone guide me now on process how to renew my expired Brazilian permanent residency.note: my child is Brazilian national. My Permanent Residency expired due to not entering brazil for more ...
American Permanent Residents Roddie in Retirement🕵 - @roddiesho Apr 1, 2025I think that this refers to US Green Card holders. Yes, for Green Card holders there are restrictions on how long you can leave the US without losing your residency. ... Read More
Are you assimilated to Brazil? Fun Facts by bepmoht
Todays Fun Fact Quiz. Are you assimilated to Brazillian Society Three easy questions to evaluate your Brazillian assimilation.1. Have you memorized your CPF number?2. Do you turn the key in your house door two rotations to lock it?3. Have you ...
Mar 29, 2025Responses to questionYes.Did not know that this was a thing.... BTW, this should not really matter if you use an Intelbras smart lock, right?Will do when I get one. Read More
Are you assimilated to Brazil? Fun Facts by bepmoht
Todays Fun Fact Quiz. Are you assimilated to Brazillian Society Three easy questions to evaluate your Brazillian assimilation.1. Have you memorized your CPF number?2. Do you turn the key in your house door two rotations to lock it?3. Have you ...
03/28/25 Can I delete all of my posts to this forum? - @alan279 If you cancel your membership, they'll replace your screen name with an untraceable dummy name like "Guest Poster XXXX". You can also edit your posts to remove information that you ... Read More
Best Brasil Low Cost Cellular Plan for Part Time Expats (2025) by Pablo888
Mar 25, 2025All:For part-timers who do not need a permanent Brasil cell phone number, any temporary e-sim would do. For someone who wants to keep the phone number, a phone plan is needed. This question comes up every year and I would like to get ...
Mar 26, 2025Thank you @abthree and @alan279. It looks like R$1 per day prepaid is still a great deal - provided you get the right coverage.Topping the balance is a good idea. That will be another event to add to my calendar..... Read More
Hurricane in Bahia by alan279
A neighbor became interested in me. We had beers a few times. Then a few lunches. Then she wanted to marry me. My attorney friend told me that she wanted a green card. I was pretty sure she had no interest in living in the US.There was a delay in ...
And still a sociopath. - @alan279 Mar 25, 2025From webmd -> https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/signs-sociopath, the advice is to keep your distance. No one can change those people, only they can decide to change. Read More
Best Brasil Low Cost Cellular Plan for Part Time Expats (2025) by Pablo888
Mar 25, 2025All:For part-timers who do not need a permanent Brasil cell phone number, any temporary e-sim would do. For someone who wants to keep the phone number, a phone plan is needed. This question comes up every year and I would like to get ...
Why do you need a permanent phone number? - @alan279 Mar 25, 2025@alan279, I think that getting a permanent phone number will simplify my travel back and forth to Brazil. There are many things that require a Brazil phone number - like my Brazil ... Read More
Best Brasil Low Cost Cellular Plan for Part Time Expats (2025)
Mar 25, 2025All:For part-timers who do not need a permanent Brasil cell phone number, any temporary e-sim would do. For someone who wants to keep the phone number, a phone plan is needed. This question comes up every year and I would like to get ... Read More
Safe to travel to Brazil and back to USA? by aecandido
Hello,bom dia,My husband and I have been thinking about moving to Brazil from the US. That's why I joined this forum.I've been to his home town twice, and absolutely loved it. But we need more info on all that's involved.My husband is Brazilian and ...
Mar 23, 2025Hi Elizabeth, I have heard many US Citizens worried about this lately. I believe that this is more paranoia than reality.US Green Card holders may be subject to more scrutiny but this does not apply to US Citizens (US born or ... Read More
Hurricane in Bahia by alan279
A neighbor became interested in me. We had beers a few times. Then a few lunches. Then she wanted to marry me. My attorney friend told me that she wanted a green card. I was pretty sure she had no interest in living in the US.There was a delay in ...
03/22/25 The temporary retraining order filed by my ex-fiancé a year ago has expired. 🙃 - @alan279 I hope that doesn't mean that you're planning on looking her up to reminisce about old times. - @abthree Mar 23, 2025@abthree, just ... Read More
Allergies on the Beach in Brazil by alan279
I've developed allergies in the past five years, after living on the beach in Ilhéus for ten years previously without allergy symptoms.Some pharmacists have suggested that living near the ocean could be the cause of my allergic reaction. My ...
My nose grew unfond of mold. Was having super bad allergies at this house. Looked all new. the internal bricks however - pure black mold. Just because you do not see it. does not mean its there. Mar 18, 2025How did you find out about mold inside ... Read More
Any interest in an Expat Meeting In Recife or João Pessoa?
Mar 14, 2025I will be near Recife from mid June to mid July. Is there an interest to do an expat lunch or dinner meeting either in Recife or João Pessoa? 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 ...
Mar 13, 2025Thank you for the reminder @Bhavna. I did not intend to solicit for service here. Just my mistake in the wrong choice of words.Just wanted to say - welcome to the forum Daniele. 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 ...
I'm a virtual assistant and support expats navigating life in Brazil. - @danivichietti Mar 13, 2025@danivichietti, welcome to the forum.Just to clarify, are you a virtual assistant or someone who helps people from remote?A virtual assistant ... Read More
CPF for foreigners by angelicaody
Hi!Does anybody know if getting a CPF on a tourist visa is possible?Thanks
@mikehunter Mar 13, 2025Thank you very much. Read More
Is This Phishing? by roddiesho
I have to be careful of any phising or other attempt to get my money. I recently with the help of my Brazilian-American daughter finally opened up an Amazon-Brazil account. I made an order and then later went back to the account to see when it would ...
Mar 12, 2025@roddiesho, whenever I get an email or message like this, I don't even open it and it just goes into the spam and / or is reported as fraud.If someone really wants me to pay, they would have other ways to reach me other than an email. ... Read More
Wasted Energy in Brazil by bepmoht
Wasted Energy in BrazilOk, so this is an observation by an old retired engineer. One curious thing I’ve noticed, at least in my town, is how a lot of electrical energy is wasted . I’m presuming this is because of social norms. ...
Is there a way to seal a residence like it's done in NA? - @Pablo888 Sure, you can minimize the airflow in a building, but homes in Ilhéus are built to maximize the airflow. - @alan279 Mar 12, 2025If you have windows that can open and ... Read More
CPF for foreigners by angelicaody
Hi!Does anybody know if getting a CPF on a tourist visa is possible?Thanks
Wow, it's return to the future. I remember years ago you had to renew your CPF yearly if you were a foreigner. Guess they decided for some reason to start it again. My question is I'm here 180 days a year so I'm not a tax resident, but have an ... Read More
Wasted Energy in Brazil by bepmoht
Wasted Energy in BrazilOk, so this is an observation by an old retired engineer. One curious thing I’ve noticed, at least in my town, is how a lot of electrical energy is wasted . I’m presuming this is because of social norms. ...
Mar 12, 2025I am not sure if this is a huge source of wasted energy at home but I have noticed from renting 2 apartments (1 in Rio and 1 in Recife) that air conditioning is only in the rooms while the rest of the house is left unconditioned and ... Read More
Higher education certificate accredited by MEC for Naturalization. by Shahbaz Shaikh786
I am searching a lot about the naturalization and Portuguese proficiency certificate as on the Brazil government site one point says..( Completion of a higher education or postgraduate course, held at a Brazilian educational institution, accredited ...
Mar 12, 2025Another question for the experts... how long is the CELPE-BRAS certificate valid for?I have already taken the A1 and A2 courses at FAAP - very useful. And I am planning to take another one when it is available and then will ... Read More
Today is Women's Day. Who really wears the pants in Brazilian Society? by bepmoht
Brazilian women wield considerable influence in everyday life, particularly in household management, social life, and finances. However, larger structural power (political, economic, and legal) still leans toward men. From my perspective, Women run ...
Mar 9, 2025I think that she is the "boss" and she thinks that I am the "leader". If we start discussing this, we will get into a "uma conversa polêmica". So we stopped doing that. Men and women need each other.I only live by one rule now - ... Read More
Allergies on the Beach in Brazil by alan279
I've developed allergies in the past five years, after living on the beach in Ilhéus for ten years previously without allergy symptoms.Some pharmacists have suggested that living near the ocean could be the cause of my allergic reaction. My ...
I take Allegra 180mg and Anamys daily. It ain't working. - @alan279 Mar 8, 2025I tried Claritin before and it did not work. That's why I tried Zyrtec - which worked but was very expensive. That's when I started to look for generics of ... Read More
Is lost What's App Safe? by roddiesho
My daughter just came up (Northeastern Brazil) from Rio where she lost her IPhone (with What`s App) on the street during Carnaval. Is her / my conversations / connections vulnerable now?Roddie in Retirement🕵
But Marielle Franco was assinated while I was there. - @alan279 Mar 8, 2025Interesting but sad story about Marielle Franco. Getting into Politics can be dangerous....On the topic, has anyone seen the movie "I'm Still Here"? What do you think ... Read More
Allergies on the Beach in Brazil by alan279
I've developed allergies in the past five years, after living on the beach in Ilhéus for ten years previously without allergy symptoms.Some pharmacists have suggested that living near the ocean could be the cause of my allergic reaction. My ...
Mar 8, 2025@alan279, same for me. I used to be allergy proof except for the extreme stuff like bed bugs, mites, and things that only occur in extreme filth. Nowadays, I don't know what will trigger this. I have seen my dermatologist about new ... Read More
USA "Real ID" identification. How does this affect EXPATS? by roddiesho
I get to watch my USA hometown morning news, NBC4, each morning and today one of the topics was the TSA checking "REAL ID" at airports starting soon. FYI. My MD. Driver's License has "Real ID"Roddie in Retirment🕵
Congress enacted the REAL ID act in 2005. It only took 20 years to finally get to the finish line. Besides flying, REAL ID is also required to get into some Federal buildings. Also, it’s still not a requirement to have a REAL ID driver’s ... Read More
Is lost What's App Safe? by roddiesho
My daughter just came up (Northeastern Brazil) from Rio where she lost her IPhone (with What`s App) on the street during Carnaval. Is her / my conversations / connections vulnerable now?Roddie in Retirement🕵
My first gf in RJ was much more street savvy. She NEVER would have suggested we attend such an event. Also, she never let me go outside on the street with a phone or any valuables. She would have me put a 20 in my shoe for cab fare, and maybe 30-40 ... Read More
CPF for foreigners by angelicaody
Hi!Does anybody know if getting a CPF on a tourist visa is possible?Thanks
It appears to me they are keying on those with a foreign address on their CPF record. I’m thinking if a person were to update their address to a Brazilian address (friend or family member’s house) then this annual renewal would go away. ... Read More
How to Get "Idoso" ID in Brazil by Pablo888
March 4, 2025As everyone knows, we are not getting older - just better....One of the most attractive features of retiring in Brazil is how well "idosos" are treated. Privileged parking, cutting to the front of the line, getting served first, ...
Do you need a car on the island? - @alan279 March 5, 2025@alan279, good question. I guess that's why I plan to rent in the short term - to see whether owning is even worth it. Uber is so cheap and convenient.Although I like electric cars, I don't ... Read More
How to Get "Idoso" ID in Brazil by Pablo888
March 4, 2025As everyone knows, we are not getting older - just better....One of the most attractive features of retiring in Brazil is how well "idosos" are treated. Privileged parking, cutting to the front of the line, getting served first, ...
@Pablo888 Which car did you buy? - @alan279 March 5, 2025@alan279, I did not buy a car yet. I am just asking about the idoso card so that I can also use with rental cars or when I travel with friends.I am just starting to spend more time on the ... Read More
Wise Multi-Currency Debit Card by Peter Itamaraca
This may be of interest: I recently applied for a Wise Multi-Currency Brazilian Debit Card. On to this I have loaded a bunch of BRL, but have also registered it for use with US$, GBP and Euros for travel purposes. As the exchange rates move in my ...
I send money(5500-10000 reias) to a Brazilian bank account every month and have never heard anything from the bank in 6 years. - @Robert Laney March 5, 2025@Robert Laney - this looks like a great plan. However, is there a tax consequence for ... Read More
How to Get "Idoso" ID in Brazil by Pablo888
March 4, 2025As everyone knows, we are not getting older - just better....One of the most attractive features of retiring in Brazil is how well "idosos" are treated. Privileged parking, cutting to the front of the line, getting served first, ...
March 4, 2025@mberigan thank you very much. Read More
How to adapt to the expat challenges of everyday life in the USA by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Adapting to everyday life as an expat in the USA can be both exciting and overwhelming: different habits, systems, and sometimes even unexpected surprises! Simple things like paying bills, using public transport, or even greeting ...
March 4, 2025Attempting to respond - but I have been in the US for a whileWhat aspects of daily life were the most challenging for you at first? Things are expensive.Cost of living in large cities are much higher than in smaller / rural areas.Many ... Read More
How to Get "Idoso" ID in Brazil
March 4, 2025As everyone knows, we are not getting older - just better....One of the most attractive features of retiring in Brazil is how well "idosos" are treated. Privileged parking, cutting to the front of the line, getting served first, ... Read More
USA "Real ID" identification. How does this affect EXPATS? by roddiesho
I get to watch my USA hometown morning news, NBC4, each morning and today one of the topics was the TSA checking "REAL ID" at airports starting soon. FYI. My MD. Driver's License has "Real ID"Roddie in Retirment🕵
March 4, 2025When I fly within the US, I used to just use my Driver's License as ID. With the implementation of Real ID, Drivers License without Real ID are no longer accepted as ID for travel.In order for a Driver's License to have the Real ID ... Read More
Beach Trike by alan279
I'm thinking about buying a beach trike. Would it be quickly stolen?
Photo: https://share.icloud.com/photos/01bfYKY … 34NCZ_pDOg - @alan279 March 3, 25Nice trike. Does it come with a walking stick or is this an addition? Where do you put the chain to lock? Both the front and rear wheels or to the frame? Read More
Is Brazil A Country for FatFIRE?
New term that I just learnt from listening to someone speak....FatFIRE -> https://www.fool.com/terms/f/fatfire/#:~:text=While%20many%20FIRE%20adherents%20seek,target%20living%20expenses%20in%20retirementI wonder what someone with FatFIRE would be ... Read More
Higher education certificate accredited by MEC for Naturalization. by Shahbaz Shaikh786
I am searching a lot about the naturalization and Portuguese proficiency certificate as on the Brazil government site one point says..( Completion of a higher education or postgraduate course, held at a Brazilian educational institution, accredited ...
Also I got my Portuguese fluency certificate level A2 from FAAP UNIVERSITY. There were a lot of doubts about that but it worked too. So all the best guys and if you need any information don't hesitate to ask. - @Shahbaz Shaikh786March 3, ... Read More
Brazil Visitor E-Visa Is Online by Pablo888
All,I have been monitoring the e-visa for Citizen of Australia, Canada, and US deployment progress and this popped up on Dec 1, 2023.https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br/consulado-chicago/Visas/types-of-visa-1/e-visaYou can apply online for the e-visa at ...
Feb 28, 2025Just an update on the Brazil E-Visa for business and tourists. As far as I know, the e-visa is still needed for visitors from Australia, Canada, and the US.Effective date: April 10, 2025.It does not seem that there will be an extension ... Read More
How to adapt to the expat challenges of everyday life in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Adapting to everyday life as an expat in Brazil can be both exciting and overwhelming: different habits, systems, and sometimes even unexpected surprises! Simple things like paying bills, using public transport, or even greeting ...
Only my perspective coming from a small country (Mauritius) and having lived in Europe and North America.What aspects of daily life were the most challenging for you at first? I was really surprised how many people in Brazil only speak Portuguese. ... Read More
Hydrogen Economy by alan279
I've learned that the hydrogen economy is not feasible, despite the current hype. The US is spending eight billion dollars on "hydrogen hubs". The Europeans spend huge money on hydrogen projects. It's all for naught. Hydrogen doesn't work. It's ...
@Pablo888 Hydrogen propaganda. From SAE? 🙄 - @alan279 As long as there are special interests being funded, this dead fish will still appear to be alive. Strange that there is no talk about hydrogen supplying rocket companies such as Space ... Read More
Hydrogen Economy by alan279
I've learned that the hydrogen economy is not feasible, despite the current hype. The US is spending eight billion dollars on "hydrogen hubs". The Europeans spend huge money on hydrogen projects. It's all for naught. Hydrogen doesn't work. It's ...
Latest investments of Hydrogen in Mobility - from the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers)https://www.sae.org/news/2025/02/hydrogen-vehicle-roundupI think that hydrogen in cars is very much driven by Europe / Japan. Very unlikely that this ... Read More
CPF for foreigners by angelicaody
Hi!Does anybody know if getting a CPF on a tourist visa is possible?Thanks
Thank you all. After getting your CPF issued, were any of you able to open a bank account as well? - @angelicaody @angelicaody - this question comes up quite frequently. In summary, you cannot open a walk-in bank account (Caixa, Satander, Bradesco, ... Read More