Work in Brazil

Brazil is the largest country in Latin America, both in area and population. With over 4,600 miles of coastline and more than 60% of the Amazon rainforest, its stunning beaches and unparalleled natural beauty make it a top destination for foreign professionals.

The country's diverse culture - shaped by Portuguese, African, and Indigenous influences - is world-renowned. During your downtime, you can dive into local festivals like Festa Junina, the Parintins Folklore Festival, and a variety of regional music events. From the infectious rhythm of samba and the spectacle of Rio de Janeiro's Carnaval to the nation's deep passion for football, Brazil offers a rich cultural experience alongside exciting professional opportunities.

That said, navigating the job market as a foreigner can be challenging. Visa processes can be lengthy, employers often prioritise Brazilian citizens, and strong Portuguese skills are essential not just for work but for daily life.

Still, opportunities are plentiful for skilled and motivated professionals - especially in major urban centres like São Paulo, Macaé, Rio de Janeiro, and the capital, Brasília.

Jobs in Brazil

Brazil is a major economic power, boasting strong agricultural, industrial, and financial sectors. As a G20 member, it ranks among the world's largest economies and is a leading global producer of beef, tropical fruits, sugarcane, and coffee. The country also has a thriving banking sector, supported by the Brazilian Real, and is one of the world's top producers of hydroelectric power.

For international workers, entering the Brazilian job market can be challenging. Many companies follow the 'principle of proportionality,' which requires that two-thirds of positions be filled by Brazilian citizens. Coupled with the need for fluency in Portuguese, this can make securing roles difficult - even for highly skilled professionals.

However, opportunities do exist, particularly in high-demand sectors such as:

• Education - Qualified teachers are needed across all levels.
• Engineering - Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers are in short supply.
• Healthcare - Doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals remain in high demand.
• Information technology - Software developers, web developers, and data scientists are highly sought after in Brazil's fast-growing tech sector.
• Science and research - Opportunities exist in biology, chemistry, physics, and related fields, with Brazil recognised as a leader in scientific research.

In Brazil, most professions are strictly regulated by official councils that oversee, protect, and enforce professional standards. Membership is often mandatory for professionals to practice legally. Key councils include:

• CFC - accounting
• CFM - medicine
• CREA - engineering and agronomy
• OAB - law.

These councils are selective with foreign professionals, generally allowing work in Brazil only if there is a shortage of skilled professionals or if local demand cannot be met.

Before applying, ensure your credentials meet the relevant council's requirements. To be licensed by a professional council in Brazil, you typically need to submit to a regional office:

• a completed registration form
• a valid undergraduate degree in the relevant field
• copies of academic transcripts
• proof of application payment.

Registration is valid for a set period and must be renewed according to the council's rules. For more information, visit The Brazil Business.

Remote work is becoming increasingly common in Brazil. International professionals may be able to work for Brazilian companies from abroad or join hybrid teams in major cities, particularly in:

• consulting
• IT
• marketing
• research.

This flexibility allows professionals to navigate some of the challenges of securing a visa for full-time, on-site employment while gaining valuable experience in the Brazilian market.

How to get a job in Brazil

Securing employment in Brazil can be competitive, especially for international workers. Temporary or part-time roles are often difficult to obtain, as many employers prefer to hire Brazilian citizens. If you are aiming for a full-time position, it's best to begin your job search from abroad.

Sending speculative applications - including a well-prepared CV and tailored cover letter - can also increase your chances of success.

The best job sites for work in Brazil are:

• Careerjet.com.br
• Catho.com.br
• Glassdoor Brazil
• Indeed - Jobs in Brazil
• LinkedIn Brazil
• trampos
• Vagas

For websites available only in Portuguese, use your browser's 'translate' feature to easily read the content in English.

Summer jobs

Brazil is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, and its tourism industry has a consistent demand for English-speaking professionals. If you have experience in hospitality - as a hotel employee, bartender, or tour guide - you may be able to find opportunities in this sector.

Another option for those with childcare experience is working as an au pair for a Brazilian family. This role not only provides income but also offers an immersive way to experience Brazilian culture and daily life.

Teaching jobs

Teaching English is one of the most accessible ways for foreigners to enter Brazil's competitive job market, with the highest demand in major cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

Earnings vary depending on your location, the type of institution (school, university, or private tuition), and your qualifications and experience. In specialised subjects like medical or legal English, you can expect to earn a higher salary.

To teach in Brazil, you'll need:

• at least two years of teaching experience at the appropriate level
• a Bachelors degree in a relevant field
• a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate, if teaching at a private school.

Where to find teaching opportunities:

• ESL Employment
• Go Overseas - Teach English in Brazil
• International TEFL Academy - Teach English in Brazil
• The TEFL Org - Teach English in Brazil

Internships

Brazil's major cities, particularly São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, offer a range of internship opportunities for international students and recent graduates. Popular fields include:

• business
• marketing
• web development.

Internships vary in length from a few weeks to several months, and many offer an allowance or housing support. While fluency in Portuguese is preferred, some multinational companies and startups offer positions for English speakers, especially in larger cities.

You can search for internships in Brazil at:

• AIESEC.org
• Glassdoor - Summer intern jobs in Brazil
• GoAbroad.com - Internships in Brazil
• GoOverseas - Internships in Brazil
• Intern Brazil

Brazilian visas

To work in Brazil, you'll need to hold a work visa and a residence permit.

Your employer is responsible for applying for the work visa on your behalf. They will need to submit the following documents to the Brazilian Ministry of Labour and Employment:

• a copy of your employment contract
• your CV
• required work documents
• a certified copy of your passport.

Once the work visa is approved, you can apply for a temporary work visa at a Brazilian embassy or consulate in your home country.

It is crucial to secure your employment before moving to Brazil - a work visa cannot be issued without a job offer.

Other work visa conditions are:

• Temporary work visas are valid for two years and can be renewed for an additional two years.
• After this period, your employer can apply for a permanent visa if you plan to stay long term.
• While holding a temporary work visa, you cannot change employers without official permission.

Within 30 days of arrival in Brazil, you'll also need to register with the Federal Police to acquire:

• a Brazilian taxpayer ID (CPF), which is required to open a bank account
• a foreigner ID card (RNE).

The visa application process can take two to three months, so it is important to apply well in advance. For detailed information, visit the Embassy of Brazil in London.

Some Brazilian states are exploring visas for 'digital nomads', allowing foreign professionals to live and work remotely in Brazil for up to a year without a full work visa. See Citizen Remote - Digital Nomad Visa for details of participating regions.

Language requirements

Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, and fluency is essential for securing employment. While you don't need a formal certification to work in the country, learning Portuguese will help you integrate into Brazilian culture - not only at work, but also in your social and everyday life.

You can improve your Portuguese skills by attending language classes or learning online. Search for a tutor at Language International - Portuguese Language Schools in Brazil.

Alternatively, you can study at your own pace using free online platforms such as:

• BBC Languages - Portuguese
• Busuu - Learn Portuguese
• Duolingo - Learn Portuguese

If you are employed through an international organisation, they may offer language training as part of your employment package. This can be a great way to enhance your Portuguese skills while gaining valuable experience in the Brazilian job market.

Explaining your qualifications to Brazilian employers

Brazil's higher education system is broadly aligned with the Bologna system used in the UK, but there is no formal equivalence between the two. When applying for jobs in Brazil, it is important to clearly present your qualifications.

You can do this by:

• Providing a detailed transcript of your studies.
• Explaining how your qualifications correspond to Brazilian standards.

This helps potential employers understand your educational background and ensures your credentials are properly recognised in the Brazilian job market.

What it's like to work in Brazil

In Brazil, the typical working day runs from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with employees averaging around 40 hours per week. By law, weekly working hours cannot exceed 44 hours.

You'll be entitled to 30 days of paid holiday after completing one year in a job. This leave can be taken all at once or split into smaller periods. There are also nine to 12 national holidays each year, depending on the state you work in.

Brazilian workplaces place a strong emphasis on personal relationships and trust, and networking can have a direct impact on hiring decisions. Workplaces are often structured hierarchically, and respect for seniority is valued highly.

Brazil is vast and living costs vary by location. Below is an approximate breakdown of monthly expenses for a one-bedroom apartment in three major Brazilian cities:

Brasília

• Food - R$900 to R$1,300 (£123 to £178).
• Rent - R$2,500 to R$4,000 (£340 to £550).
• Utilities - R$600 to R$1,000 (£82 to £137).

Rio de Janeiro

• Food - R$1,000 to R$1,400 (£137 to £190).
• Rent - R$2,500 to R$4,500 (£340 to £615).
• Utilities - R$700 to R$1,100 (£95 to £150).

São Paulo

• Food - R$1,000 to R$1,500 (£137 to £205).
• Rent - R$3,000 to R$5,000 (£410 to £685).
• Utilities - R$700 to R$1,200 (£95 to £165).

Public transport is generally affordable in Brazil, and ride-sharing apps like Uber and 99 are popular. Apps such as iFood for meal delivery and Nubank for banking are also common and help to make daily life more convenient.

Healthcare in Brazil is free through the Unified Health System (SUS). Public health programmes also help make medications more affordable, ensuring you'll have access to essential care as a Brazilian resident.

Find out more

• Discover what it's like to study in Brazil.