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Brazil – Work Permits and Working Legally

Working Legally in Brazil

It is necessary for expats to obtain a work permit to work legally in Brazil. The application for a work permit must be made by the expat’s employer. There are some exemptions for certain categories of professionals, such as those working for international organizations and those under bilateral agreements between Brazil and their country of origin.

Types of Work Permits for Expats in Brazil

There are two main types of work permits for expats in Brazil:

  1. Temporary Visa (VITEM IV)
  2. Permanent Visa (VITEM V)

Temporary Visa (VITEM IV): This type of visa is granted for a specific period of time, up to two years, and is renewable. It is suitable for those expats who will be working in Brazil for a limited period of time

Permanent Visa (VITEM V): This type of visa is granted for an indefinite period of time and is suitable for expats who will be working in Brazil for an extended period of time or permanently


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Eligibility: To be eligible for a work permit in Brazil, expats must have a job offer from a Brazilian company and must meet the requirements set by the Ministry of Labor and Employment.

Work Permit Application Process in Brazil

The procedure to apply for a work permit in Brazil involves the following steps:

  1. The employer submits a request for a labor agreement to the Ministry of Labor and Employment.
  2. After approval of the labor agreement, the employer must request a work visa at the nearest Brazilian consulate.
  3. Once the visa is granted, the expat must travel to Brazil and apply for a work permit.
  4. The expat must then obtain a permanent tax ID number (CPF) and register with the Ministry of Labor and Employment.

The process can take several months and is subject to various bureaucratic delays. It is advisable to start the process well in advance of the intended start date for the job in Brazil.

Work Permit Documents in Brazil

Expats who wish to work in Brazil need to obtain a work permit, which is issued by the Brazilian Ministry of Labor and Employment. The documents required for a work permit application depend on the type of work permit, the job position, and the nationality of the applicant. However, the following are some of the common documents required:

  • A valid passport or other travel document
  • A work permit application form, signed by the employer and the expat
  • Proof of the job offer, such as an employment contract or a letter from the employer
  • Educational certificates and qualifications, translated and legalized by the Brazilian consulate in the expat’s home country
  • Proof of financial means to support themselves during their stay in Brazil
  • A criminal record certificate from the expat’s home country or the country of residence
  • Proof of health insurance coverage
  • A medical certificate from an approved medical center in Brazil

Additional documents may be required, depending on the individual case. It is important to consult with the employer and the relevant authorities for the specific requirements.

What Costs are Involved in Applying for a Work Permit in Brazil?

The cost of a work permit in Brazil depends on the type of work permit and the duration of stay. Some of the common costs associated with work permit applications include:

  • A processing fee for the work permit application, which ranges from BRL 202 to BRL 1,350, depending on the type of work permit and the duration of stay
  • A fee for the foreigner’s identity card (RNE), which ranges from BRL 204 to BRL 306, depending on the duration of stay
  • A fee for the medical examination, which varies depending on the medical center and the type of examination required
  • Translation and legalization fees for required documents
  • Travel expenses to and from the Brazilian consulate for document submission and collection

It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, and additional fees may apply depending on the individual case.

Where Can Expats Go for Reliable Information on Working Legally in Brazil?

Expats who wish to work legally in Brazil can find reliable information and guidance from the following websites:

  • Brazilian Ministry of Labor and Employment (http://trabalho.gov.br/trabalhador-estrangeiro)’s the official website of the Brazilian Ministry of Labor and Employment provides information and resources for foreign workers in Brazil, including work permits, employment contracts, and labor rights.
  • VFS Global (https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/index.html) ‘s an international visa outsourcing and technology services specialist that provides information and assistance with work permit applications for Brazil. The website features information on visa requirements and procedures, as well as online services for visa applications and appointments.
  • BrazilGovNews (https://brazilgovnews.gov.br)’s an official news portal that provides news and information on a range of topics related to living and working in Brazil, including work permits, job opportunities, and taxes. The website features articles and reports on government initiatives and policies that affect foreign workers in Brazil.


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