Brazil
“Brazil, a land of beauty and charm, captivates hearts with its passionate embrace.”
Carlos Drummond de Andrade
Brazil
An intoxicating country of contrasts, which offers a blend of culture and landscape you can’t find anywhere else. The country’s rich cultural heritage is complemented by diverse natural beauty, from the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the lush expanse of the Amazon rainforest.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s controversial policies have polarised the country. The banning of social media giant X in Brazil brought international condemnation from civil liberties groups, free speech advocates and the Brazilian people. Despite this and other such regressive actions, Brazil remains an attractive destination for digital nomads and those seeking a more vibrant lifestyle.
English is increasingly spoken in major cities and the country offers visa options for extended stays. This combination of factors makes Brazil an intriguing choice for those looking to experience South America while working remotely or considering long-term relocation.
| 🌎 CONTINENT | SOUTH AMERICA |
|---|---|
| 📌COUNTRY | BRAZIL |
| 👫🏻POPULATION | 213,993,000 |
| 🙏RELIGION | CHRISTIANITY |
| 💵CURRENCY | BRAZILIAN REAL (BRL) |
| 💉C19 VAX REQUIRED | NO |
| 🔌POWER | 127V/220V - 60Hz |
| 💰GDP PER CAPITA | $10,300 PER YEAR |
| ✈️AIRPORT | SAO PAULO - GRU |
|---|---|
| 🪪UK VISA FREE | 90 DAYS |
| 🏝️LAND OWNERSHIP | ALLOWED |
| 🛜AVG INTERNET SPEED | 165 MBPS |
| 💧TAP WATER | UNSAFE |
| 🏧ATM LIMIT | R$1,000 |
| 💳CASHLESS | WIDELY ACCEPTED |
| 💸TIPPING | 10 PERCENT |
TAX FRIENDLINESS
Digital Nomad Tax Friendliness: 85/100
-
- Brazil now offers a specific Digital Nomad Visa, introduced in January 2022.
- The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for an additional year.
- Digital nomads must prove a minimum monthly income of $1,500 or $18,000 in savings.
- Non residents, including digital nomad visa holders are only taxed on Brazilian sourced income.
- Foreign sourced income is not taxed for the first 12 months of residency.
Expat Tax Friendliness: 65/100
-
- Residents are taxed on worldwide income with progressive rates from 7.5% to 27.5%.
- From January 1, 2024, income earned from foreign sources, including crypto transactions will be taxed at 15%-22.5%.
- This new tax rate is an increase from the previous 8% rate on foreign sourced income.
Investor Tax Friendliness: 60/100
-
- Capital gains tax rates range from 15% to 22.5% based on total gains.
- The threshold for taxable crypto transactions is R$35,000 per month.
- Recent changes have made the tax environment less favorable for investors using foreign platforms.
Crypto Tax Friendliness: 55/100
-
- Cryptocurrency is recognized as a taxable asset in Brazil.
- Capital gains from crypto transactions are taxed at 15%-22.5%.
- Recent legislation has increased scrutiny on foreign crypto exchanges.
- The tax authority plans to summon foreign crypto exchanges for information on local operations.
BRAZIL PRICE REFERENCE
BRAZIL HOLIDAY LETS
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Brazil Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
Brazil Tourist Visa
Brazil is a popular destination for UK citizens, offering stunning natural beauty and vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
Key Points:
- Visa-Free Entry: UK citizens can enter Brazil without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism purposes. This can be extended for an additional 90 days, allowing a total stay of up to 180 days per year.
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Proof of Accommodation: Visitors should be ready to provide proof of accommodation and onward travel when entering the country.
Important Links:
- Brazil Embassy in the UK – for visa and entry requirements.
- Brazilian Federal Police – for visa extensions and immigration issues.
Brazil Digital Nomad Visa
Brazil has introduced its Digital Nomad Visa in 2022, designed to attract remote workers and digital professionals.
Key Points:
- Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate employment with a company based outside of Brazil or proof of self-employment, with a minimum income of USD 1,500 per month or USD 18,000 per year.
- Duration: The visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed.
- Application Requirements: Applicants must provide proof of employment, income, and travel insurance coverage. Additionally, a clean criminal record and valid passport are required.
Important Links:
- Government Website – detailed digital nomad visa information and application steps.
Brazil Retirement Visa
Brazil offers a Retirement Visa for foreign retirees who wish to live in the country long-term.
Key Points:
- Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 60 years old and show proof of a minimum monthly income of USD 2,000. Dependents can also apply.
- Duration: The visa is issued for an initial 2 years, with the possibility of renewal and eventual permanent residency.
- Healthcare: Retirees must have private health insurance or demonstrate access to sufficient healthcare funds while living in Brazil.
Important Links:
- Brazil Consulate in the UK – for retirement visa applications.
- Brazilian Immigration – Government website for retirement visa
OTHER NOTES
ARE ID CARDS REQUIRED
Are ID Cards Required in Brazil?
In Brazil, both ID cards and CPF numbers are essential for many daily interactions, including purchases, official transactions and legal matters. These documents play a key role in navigating Brazilian life, whether for citizens, residents, or foreigners.
ID Cards in Brazil
- RG (Registro Geral): Brazilian citizens must carry an RG (Registro Geral), which is the national ID card. It contains personal details, such as full name, date of birth, and a photo. It’s used for everyday identification purposes, including opening bank accounts, signing contracts, or proving identity in various situations.
- RNE/CRNM (Registro Nacional de Estrangeiros/Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório): Foreign residents are issued an RNE (Registro Nacional de Estrangeiros) or more recently the CRNM (Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório). This functions similarly to a citizen’s ID card and is necessary for activities like securing a rental property, employment, or healthcare.
- Daily Use: It is common to be asked for ID during various activities, such as when using credit cards, entering secure buildings, or checking into hotels. Carrying some form of ID is strongly recommended.
CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas)
In addition to an ID card, the CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) is a taxpayer identification number that is required for many transactions in Brazil, regardless of whether you’re a citizen, resident, or a foreigner temporarily in the country.
- What is CPF? The CPF is a unique number assigned by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal). It is mandatory for a variety of activities such as purchasing goods, signing mobile phone contracts, renting apartments, or opening a bank account.
- When is CPF Required?
- Buying Goods: CPF is required when making significant purchases like electronics, furniture, or appliances, both in-store and online.
- Banking: Opening a bank account or investing in Brazil requires a CPF.
- Contracts: CPF is necessary for rental agreements, utility contracts, and even for accessing healthcare services.
- Online Shopping: Even foreign visitors may need to provide a CPF when buying items from Brazilian online stores.
- How to Obtain a CPF: Foreigners can apply for a CPF at Brazilian consulates abroad or at a branch of the Receita Federal in Brazil. It can also be obtained online in some cases, depending on your status and residency.
Important Links:
- Apply for a CPF and for more information on its uses.
- Brazilian Federal Police – for information on ID cards for foreigners (RNE/CRNM).
Both the ID card and the CPF are indispensable for navigating everyday life in Brazil, so it’s essential to secure both early on, especially if you plan on staying for a prolonged period.
ARE GM FOODS ALLOWED
Are GM Foods Allowed in Brazil?
Overview: Brazil is one of the world’s largest producers of genetically modified (GM) crops, particularly soy and corn.
Key Points:
- GM Crop Production: Brazil allows the cultivation of GM crops like soybeans, corn, and cotton, which make up a significant portion of the country’s agricultural output.
- Imports and Exports: The country also imports and exports GM foods, widely used in food processing and livestock feed.
- Regulation: The National Technical Commission on Biosafety (CTNBio) regulates GM crops and ensures the safety of GM products. GM foods must be labeled if the GM content exceeds 1%.
TRESPASSING - RIGHT TO ROAM
Trespassing, Right to Roam, and Wild Camping in Brazil
Brazil’s laws concerning private property and public lands are strict, and trespassing is taken seriously.
Key Points:
- Trespassing: Brazilian law strictly prohibits entering private property without permission. Trespassers can face legal action, including fines or imprisonment.
- Wild Camping: Wild camping is only allowed in designated areas, particularly in national parks like Chapada Diamantina and Lençóis Maranhenses. Camping outside designated areas without permission is not advised.
- Right to Roam: Unlike some European countries, Brazil does not have a legal right to roam. Always seek permission from landowners or use designated camping sites.
420 FRIENDLY?
420 Friendly?
Brazil has strict drug laws, and cannabis remains illegal under most circumstances.
Key Points:
- Cannabis Laws: The use, possession, and sale of cannabis are illegal in Brazil. Small amounts for personal use can result in fines and community service, while larger amounts may lead to imprisonment.
- Medical Cannabis: Brazil has made provisions for medical cannabis, allowing the use of cannabis-derived medications under strict prescription. However, personal cultivation and recreational use remain prohibited.
- Foreigners: Drug-related crimes involving foreigners often lead to swift legal action, including potential imprisonment and deportation.
Important Links:
- Brazilian National Drug Policy – for drug law enforcement and regulations.
Brazil Journal
