BRAZIL
Country Guide

Have you decided to Move to Brazil ?
Whether you’re planning a tourist trip or a business relocation, here’s what you should know before you go.

Brazil General Overview

• Official country name: Federative Republic of Brazil (República Federativa do Brasil)
• Location: South America, Eastern region
• Capital city: Brasília
• Official language(s): Portuguese
• Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)
• Time zone: UTC-2 to UTC-5 (Brazil has 4 time zones)

Brazil Culture & Traditions

• Key customs to be aware of:
  
  • Brazilians are warm, friendly, and physically expressive with greetings including hugs and kisses on the cheek.
  • “Jeitinho brasileiro” (Brazilian way) reflects flexibility and creative problem-solving in daily life.
  • Soccer (futebol) is a national passion and cultural identity.
  • Music and dance are integral to social gatherings, especially samba and forró.
• Number of official public holidays: 12 national days
  
  • New Year’s Day, Carnival (moveable), Good Friday, Tiradentes’ Day (April 21), Labor Day (May 1), Corpus Christi (moveable), Independence Day (September 7), Our Lady of Aparecida (October 12), All Souls’ Day (November 2), Republic Day (November 15), Black Awareness Day (November 20), Christmas Day.

• Main traditional dishes and local drinks:
  
  • Dishes: Feijoada (black bean stew with pork), Moqueca (seafood stew), Pão de Queijo (cheese bread), Acarajé, Brigadeiro (chocolate dessert), Churrasco (barbecue).
  • Drinks: Caipirinha (cachaça cocktail), Guaraná Antarctica (soft drink), Açaí juice, Mate tea, fresh coconut water, Brazilian coffee.

• Languages spoken daily and common expressions:
  
  • Portuguese is the primary language; English is limited outside major tourist areas.
  • Common expressions:
    • “Tudo bem?” (How are you? / Everything okay?)
    • “Obrigado/Obrigada” (Thank you – masculine/feminine)
    • “De nada” (You’re welcome)
    • “Com licença” (Excuse me)
    • “Saudade” (A deep nostalgic longing – uniquely Brazilian concept)

• Specific clothing and behavioral norms:
  
  • Casual and colorful clothing is common; Brazilians dress stylishly even for everyday activities.
  • Beach culture is prominent—swimwear and light clothing are standard in coastal areas.
  • Business attire tends to be formal in corporate settings, especially in São Paulo.
  • Brazilians value personal appearance and grooming.

• Cultural Festivals:
  
  • Carnival (February/March) – World’s largest festival with parades, samba, and street parties.
  • Festa Junina (June) – Traditional festivals celebrating rural life with folk dances and food.
  • Reveillon (New Year’s Eve) – Beach celebrations, especially in Rio de Janeiro and Salvador.

Brazil Demographics & Society

• Total population: Approximately 215 million
• Major ethnic groups: Mixed race (Pardo – 47%), White (43%), Black (8%), Asian (1%), Indigenous (0.5%). Brazil is one of the world’s most diverse nations.
• Main religion(s): Christianity (Roman Catholic – about 65%, Protestant – 22%), Spiritism (2%), Afro-Brazilian religions (Candomblé, Umbanda), growing non-religious population.
• General safety level:
  • Safety varies significantly by city and neighborhood.
  • Urban areas have concerns with petty crime, theft, and in some areas, violent crime.
  • Wealthier neighborhoods and gated communities tend to be safer.
  • Exercise caution in favelas (informal settlements) and after dark in certain areas.
• Attitude towards foreigners and diversity:
  • Brazilians are generally welcoming and curious about foreigners.
  • The country has a history of immigration and cultural mixing.
  • Language barrier can be challenging as English proficiency is lower than in some other countries.
  • Expats often find it easy to make local friends due to Brazilian warmth and hospitality.

Brazil Key Cities & Regions

• Capital city: Brasília (3.1 million people) – Planned city known for modernist architecture, government center. 
  

• Major cities:
  
• • São Paulo (12.3 million) – Largest city, economic powerhouse, cultural diversity, business hub, excellent dining and arts scene.
  • Rio de Janeiro (6.7 million) – Iconic beaches (Copacabana, Ipanema), Christ the Redeemer, vibrant nightlife, major tourist destination. Learn more here…
  • Belo Horizonte (2.5 million) – Mining industry center, pleasant climate, growing tech sector.
  • Salvador (2.9 million) – Afro-Brazilian cultural capital, colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, rich history.
  • Fortaleza (2.7 million) – Coastal city with stunning beaches, growing tourism industry.
  • Curitiba (1.9 million) – Known for urban planning, quality of life, environmental initiatives.
  • Recife (1.7 million) – Historic port city, vibrant culture, “Venice of Brazil.”
  • Porto Alegre (1.5 million) – Southern city with European influence, strong economy.

Brazil Weather & Climate

• Type of climate: Highly varied – tropical, subtropical, semi-arid, and equatorial zones.
  

• Average seasonal temperatures:
  
  • Summer (December – March): 25-35°C, hot and humid with frequent rainfall.
  • Autumn (April – June): 18-28°C, mild and pleasant.
  • Winter (July – September): 15-25°C in most regions; can drop to 0-10°C in the South.
  • Spring (October – November): 20-30°C, warming up with occasional rain.
  • Note: Seasons are reversed from Northern Hemisphere.
    

Brazil Schooling

• Public Schools:
  – Free public education from elementary through high school
  – American curriculum following US federal standards
  – Medium of instruction: English (Samoan widely spoken informally)
  – American Samoa Department of Education oversees all public schools
  – Quality varies; some schools well-resourced, others struggle with aging facilities
  – Strong emphasis on sports, particularly football (American Samoa produces many NFL players)
  – Cultural education includes Fa’a Samoa (Samoan culture) and language

• Private Schools:
  – Very limited options
  – *Samoa Adventist Academy* – Private Christian school in Leone
  – Few other small private/church schools
  – Generally small class sizes due to limited population

• Higher Education:
  – *American Samoa Community College (ASCC)* – Main higher education institution
  – Associate degrees, vocational programs, teacher training
  – Located in Mapusaga
  – Affordable tuition for residents
  – Some online programs available
  – Many students travel to Hawaii, mainland US, or other Pacific islands for university education

• Key Information:
  – School year follows US calendar: August/September to May/June
  – Sports programs highly competitive, especially football, rugby
  – Traditional cultural education integrated into curriculum
  – Limited AP or International Baccalaureate programs
  – Children automatically receive US nationality if born in American Samoa to US national parents

• Challenges:
  – Limited advanced academic programs
  – Aging school facilities and infrastructure
  – Teacher retention issues
  – Higher education requires leaving territory for most students

Brazil Health & Care

• LBJ Tropical Medical Center (Lyndon B. Johnson)
  – Main hospital in Faga’alu, serves entire territory
  – Funded by US federal government; provides basic to intermediate care
  – Free or low-cost for residents; accepts Medicaid
  – Limited specialized services – complex cases require medical evacuation to Hawaii
  – Village health clinics provide basic primary care throughout islands
  – Emergency services available but response times vary by location

• Private Healthcare:
  – Very limited private medical facilities
  – Some private clinics offer basic services
  – Most physicians trained in US or overseas; quality generally adequate for routine care.

• Key Considerations:
  – Medical evacuation insurance essential – serious conditions require transport to Hawaii ($10,000-50,000+ cost)
  – Dental and optical services available but basic
  – Medications available at hospital pharmacy and limited private pharmacies
  – Tropical diseases present: dengue fever, Zika – mosquito precautions necessary
  – Obesity and diabetes rates very high in population; related healthcare services available
  – Mental health services extremely limited
  – Emergency number: 911

• Recommendations for Expats:
  – Obtain comprehensive health insurance with medical evacuation coverage
  – Maintain relationship with mainland or Hawaii healthcare providers
  – Stock up on prescription medications as availability can be inconsistent
  – Consider regular trips to Hawaii for preventive care and checkups

Brazil Banking

• Major Banks:
  – ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank (ANZ ASB) – Main commercial bank, Australian-owned
  – Full-service banking: checking, savings, loans, mortgages
  – Multiple ATMs throughout Tutuila
  – Online banking available
  – Territorial Bank of American Samoa (TBAS) – Government-owned development bank
  – Focus on business development and home loans
  – Limited consumer banking services
  – Bank of Hawaii – Limited presence; mainly serves government and large businesses

• Opening an Account:

  • Requirements:
    Valid ID (passport or US state ID), Social Security Number, proof of address
    – US Citizens/Nationals: Straightforward process, typically same-day
    – *Foreigners:* More complex; may require work permit or visa documentation
    – In-person application required; no online account opening

  • Banking Features:
    – Account types: Checking (often with fees), savings (low interest rates)
    – Fees: Monthly maintenance fees common ($5-15); ATM fees for non-customers
    – Limited hours: Generally Monday-Friday 9 AM – 3 PM; closed weekends
    – ATMs: Available in Pago Pago and main villages; limited elsewhere
    – Online banking: Basic services available through ANZ ASB

  • Payment Methods:
    – Cash: Still widely used – US Dollar is official currency
    – Checks: Still common for bill payments
    – Debit cards: Widely accepted in stores and restaurants
    – Credit cards: Major cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted at most businesses; limited merchants
    – Mobile payments: Limited adoption; Apple Pay/Google Pay not widely available

• Key Limitations:

– No major US banks: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase not present
– International transfers: Expensive and slow; limited options
– Investment services: Very limited; no brokerage services locally
– Credit building: Local credit history separate from US mainland
– Currency exchange: Very limited services; US Dollar only currency

• Practical Considerations:
  – Maintain US mainland bank account if possible – useful for online transactions, broader services
  – Wire transfers: Expensive ($25-50 per transaction); plan accordingly
  – Check cashing: Some stores offer services but with fees
  – Banking deserts: Remote villages have no bank access; cash economy prevails
  – Internet banking reliability: Depends on internet connection quality
  – Financial services limited: Wealth management, investment advice virtually non-existent locally
• For Expats:
  – Open local account for salary deposits and daily expenses
  – Keep mainland US account for online purchases, subscriptions, investments
  – Bring sufficient cash when arriving – account setup may take time
  – Credit cards from mainland banks work but inform bank of American Samoa usage
  – Money transfers to/from mainland can take 3-5 business days
  – Western Union and MoneyGram available for remittances
• Important Notes:
  – American Samoa has separate banking system from US mainland despite political relationship
  – FDIC insurance applies to ANZ ASB deposits
  – Financial infrastructure basic compared to developed countries
  – Plan finances carefully given limited banking options and services

Brazil Practical Information

• Entry requirements:
  
  • Visa-free entry for up to 90 days for many nationalities (US, EU, Canada, Australia, etc.).
  • Long-term stays require appropriate visa (work, student, investor, family reunion).
  • Temporary residence and permanent residence options available.

Brazil Tourist Visa Requirements Summary

Common Entry Requirements (Even When Visa-Free)

Even if a visa is not required (Philippines and Thailand), all travelers must be prepared to present the following documents upon arrival in Brazil:

• Valid Passport: Valid for the entire duration of the intended stay.

• Proof of Onward or Return Travel: A confirmed ticket for departure from Brazil.

• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence that you can support yourself during your stay (e.g., bank statements, credit cards).

• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations or a formal invitation letter from a Brazilian host.

Useful Link

For official and up-to-date information, especially for Vietnamese citizens requiring an e-Visa, the Brazilian government’s consular portal is the primary source: Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Consular Services/Visa Information

• Local transportation options:
  
  • Metro systems in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Recife, Salvador, and other major cities.
  • Buses – extensive network but can be crowded and slow during rush hours.
  • Ride-hailing apps – Uber and 99 (local alternative) are widely used and affordable.
  • Taxis – available but more expensive; ensure meter is running.
  • Domestic flights – efficient for long distances given Brazil’s vast size.
  • Intercity buses – comfortable long-distance options with various service levels.

• Cost of living:
  
  • Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in São Paulo: BRL 2,500–4,500 ($500–900); Rio de Janeiro: BRL 2,000–4,000 ($400–800). Learn more here…
  • Food: Local meals at restaurants cost BRL 25–50 ($5–10); groceries are affordable, especially local produce.
  • Transport: Metro/bus fares around BRL 4.40–5 ($0.90–1); monthly pass varies by city.
  • Overall: More affordable than North America and Western Europe, but costs vary significantly by city and lifestyle.

• Electrical outlets and voltage used: Type N (Brazilian standard), also Type C; 127V or 220V (varies by region – check before using appliances).

• Emergency numbers to know:
  
  • Police: 190
  • Ambulance (SAMU): 192
  • Fire Department: 193
  • General Emergency: 911 (in some cities)

Brazil Visitor Tips

• Gestures to avoid or cultural taboos:
  
  • The “OK” hand gesture (thumb and index finger forming a circle) can be offensive in Brazil.
  • Avoid the “fig” gesture (thumb between index and middle fingers).
  • Don’t be surprised by physical proximity during conversations – Brazilians have smaller personal space boundaries.
  • Punctuality is more relaxed in social settings; being 15-30 minutes late is often acceptable.

• Specific regulations:
  
  • Alcohol consumption is legal from age 18; drinking in public is generally allowed.
  • Drug laws are strict with severe penalties for possession and trafficking.
  • Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces.
  • Environmental laws are strict, especially regarding the Amazon; respect protected areas.

• Tips for integrating locally:
  
  • Learning Portuguese is essential – even basic phrases will significantly improve your experience.
  • Embrace the social culture – Brazilians value relationships and spending time together.
  • Be patient with bureaucracy – administrative processes can be slow and complex.
  • Join local clubs or activities (sports, dance classes, language exchange) to meet people.
  • Understanding “Brazilian time” – flexibility with schedules is cultural.

• Potential risks or important considerations:
  
  • Safety concerns: Be vigilant about personal belongings; avoid displaying expensive items; research neighborhood safety before choosing accommodation.
  • Healthcare: Quality varies; private healthcare is excellent but expensive; public system (SUS) is free but often overcrowded.
  • Bureaucracy: Obtaining CPF (tax ID), opening bank accounts, and dealing with paperwork can be time-consuming.
  • Currency fluctuations: The Real can be volatile; consider this for financial planning.
  • Infrastructure challenges: Traffic congestion in major cities, occasional power outages, varying internet quality.
  • Tropical diseases: In some regions, vaccination for yellow fever is recommended; dengue, Zika, and chikungunya exist in certain areas.