Moving to a new country is an adventurous leap. It comes filled with the promise of fresh opportunities, vibrant culture, and a new way of life. Isn’t that what you’ve always wanted? If you’re planning to call Brazil your new home, you’ve made a fabulous choice. But, as with any big move, there are a few logistical hurdles to clear before you can kick back on a Rio beach with a caipirinha in hand.
So what are the key steps to set yourself up in Brazil as a foreigner? You might be moving for work or to study for a while. You might be a digital nomad looking for a change of scenery. Or perhaps this is a long term move for a relationship or family reasons. Whatever the motivation, there are some common things EVERYONE needs to do to get set up in Brazil. Here they are.
1. Getting to Know Brazil’s Basics
Before you get into setting up the logistic of life in Brazil, learn a few basic Portuguese phrases. While English is spoken in tourist hubs, many locals primarily speak Portuguese. Even knowing how to say “bom dia” (good morning) and “obrigado/obrigada” (thank you) will go a long way.
All foreigners looking to stay long-term in Brazil must enter the country with the right visa or residency permits. Some common visa types include work visas, student visas, and family reunion visas. Here’s what you need to know:
- Temporary Visa (VITEM): This is usually issued for work or study and is required before moving.
- CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas): This essentially acts as a taxpayer ID and you’ll need it for nearly everything—from opening a bank account to getting a SIM card. You can apply for a CPF through a Brazilian embassy or once you’re in the country. It’s a small card, but trust me, it’s a big deal.
Top tip: Make multiple copies of your passport, visa, and CPF. You’ll be asked for these documents more times than you can count.
2. Finding a Place to Live
Brazil offers a wide range of housing options, but your experience will vary greatly depending on which part of the country you choose to live in. São Paulo boasts a bustling urban center with a buzzing business culture, while Rio de Janeiro offers stunning beaches and a laid-back vibe. Places like Florianópolis or Belo Horizonte may appeal more to those seeking a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere.
Rent or buy? Most expats start by renting. Popular platforms like QuintoAndar or Zap Imóveis make it easier to browse options, but you might find it helpful to work with a local real estate agent. Keep in mind:
- The housing market is very regional. Prices in São Paulo and Rio are significantly higher than in secondary cities.
- Long-term rentals often require a fiador (guarantor) or a hefty deposit. Fiadors can be tricky to secure if you’re new, so be upfront about this with landlords.
Many leases also require proof of formal residency. Having your CPF handy will be essential here too.
3. Getting Set Up with a Brazilian Bank Account
Setting up a local account is a must for paying bills, receiving salary payments, and avoiding hefty international fees. So how do you open a bank account in Brazil?
To open an account, or conta bancária, you’ll need the following documents:
- CPF (yes, again!)
- Photo ID (typically your passport)
- Proof of address (even if it’s temporary housing or a friend’s residence)
- Proof of income (if applicable)
Brazil has a mix of traditional banks and digital-friendly alternatives. Many expats look specifically for a Brazil bank account for foreigners, that has good reviews from others in the expat community. This gives you reassurance that your specific needs for a bank account, which might include receiving and sending money internationally sometimes, will be met. It also helps to know whether a specific bank is able to serve you in English.
Many Brazilians rely on boleto bancário (bank slips) to pay everything from rent to utilities. If managing paper slips isn’t your style, set up automatic payments through your online banking app.
Top tip: Digital-only banks often have English interfaces, which can make your life much easier while learning Portuguese.
4. Getting Around in Brazil
Brazil is a huge country, so getting around efficiently takes some planning. Larger cities like São Paulo and Rio have robust public transit systems. Use the Moovit or Google Maps app to plan metro and bus routes.
If you plan on driving, you’ll need to validate or convert your driver’s license through Brazil’s Detran (Departamento Estadual de Trânsito) office. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps like Uber and 99 are reliable options.
5. Building Your Social and Professional Network
Wherever you are in Brazil, making connections is key to feeling settled. Brazilians are known for being social, and expats often find making friends here easier than in other countries.
- Learn Local Customs: Join local meetups or Facebook groups like Brazil Expats or Gringo-Rio.
- Coworking Spaces: If you’re working remotely, look into coworking spaces like WeWork or local hubs to meet like-minded professionals.
- Cultural Events: Music festivals, local fairs, and seasonal celebrations like Carnival are fantastic ways to immerse yourself in Brazilian culture.
6. Health Insurance
While Brazil does have a public healthcare system known as SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), many expats opt for private insurance. This ensures shorter wait times and access to private hospitals and English-speaking staff. Insurers like Amil or Bradesco Saúde are commonly used by expats.
Transitioning to life in Brazil is a process, and while it may feel overwhelming, every step brings you closer to experiencing this incredible country. Follow these steps to settle in, and remember to approach each experience with an open heart and a splash of Brazilian alegria (joy).
