Expat Brazil

Brazil is one of the most exotic countries on earth. Not only does she have plenty of interesting cities such as San Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, but also the world's largest rain forest- the Amazon. For those looking for a different way of life, traditional cultures and natural settings, you will be impressed with Brazil's diversity.

While much different than Western Europe and Asia, Brazil does offer expats a unique challenge and adventure. For instance, Rio de Janeiro, perhaps the best known Brazilian city is one of the most densely populated cities on earth. Most expats come for carnival and stay for months thereafter.

While people are full of energy and party for almost any reason, caution should be taken as the rise of crime in recent years has tarnished the city's image. Unfortunately, life for expats is sometimes anything but a party due to certain crimes that specifically target westerners and tourists.

While Brazil has its luxury resorts and villas, it also has some of the harshest poverty seen on the planet. Cities are perhaps the most convenient places to live, but there are plenty of remote villages spotted throughout Brazil. If you are looking for an easy way of life, Brazil might not be for you, but if you enjoy a true challenge and unexpected adventure- welcome to Brazil.

Climate

Brazil is a large land mass that differs in climate. For instance, the tropical rainforest is extremely wet, humid and hot during the years. Down by the southern region away from the rainforest, the climate has both a wet season and dry season. Because Brazil doesn't border the Andes Mountains there is no snow.

If you are living in the major cities such as Rio de Janeiro expect very hot and humid weather during the summer months (November to March). During the winter time (June to September), the temperature dips to a low of about 68 degrees. Rainfall usually occurs during the summer months of November to March. Highs in the city usually range from the high 80's to the 90's.

Government

Brazil is the largest country in South America, as well as the most populated. There are approximately 188 million people in Brazil making it the 5th most populated country in the world. The government has a framework that is a democratic republic. The President of Brazil is not only the head of state, but also the leader of the government. In Brazil there are many political parties which each vie for influence. The country of Brazil is divided into 26 states and one federal district.

Brazil's main language is Portuguese, leading back to colonial times; however English and Spanish are also spoken, especially in the cities. A visa is required for American citizens and the visa lasts for 5 years in which you can stay multiple times for usually 90 days each time.

If you are looking to live in Brazil to start a business, beware that it can take a very long time. In fact, on average it can take 5 months. Making matters worse, it is very difficult to close a business as well. Unfortunately there is a lot of bureaucracy and corruption in the Brazilian government. While there are multinational companies in Brazil, finding jobs for working in the area can at times be difficult- start planning several months in advance.

Tax System

The tax rates in Brazil are moderate. Expect a top rate for personal income taxes at 27.5 percent. For corporations, the tax rate is 25%. If you are planning on doing business as a corporation in Brazil, it is usually easier to set your business up in the United States or your home country and then conduct trade through it. Creating a corporation can be too complex and take a very long time making it impractical for many expats looking to be entrepreneurs.

Medical Care

Brazil has universal health care for its citizens which are funded by the public and private institutions. While there are hospitals and clinics available throughout the major cities, if you are visiting rural areas, you will probably be on your own. Make sure you have a full check up before you leave for Brazil. Serious illnesses will usually require your evacuation to your home country for treatment.

There are clinics that are focused towards expats, these clinics usually accept cash payments or your employer may have a specific arrangement or pay for insurance for these types of care.

Real Estate

For people looking to invest in Brazil, it is important to note that although contracts are generally acknowledged, it can take a long time to create a business in order to invest in real estate. If there is a legal dispute, the property in question can be tied up for years in the court. In addition, economic and political influence can alter certain decisions.

For leasing and renting homes, villas, apartments and condos, it is usually a very simple process. Most leases are for two to three years and the total amount is usually requested before hand. In addition, this may include a security deposit for the property. Most properties are relatively affordable including property near the most popular destinations. For instance, villas in top areas can cost as low as $1,000 per month. Apartments in the city are much more affordable; expect to pay several hundred dollars per month to live in an apartment or condo that is targeted to expats or long term tourists.

Shopping

In parts of Brazil, there is plenty of shopping available. For instance, most of the main cities have plenty of markets, supermarkets and large western style shopping malls. While Brazil has some of the poorest people in the world, there are also plenty of citizens, tourists and expats that have enough money to sustain lots of luxury and moderate priced shops.

If you are traveling through the smaller towns and remote village, obviously shopping will not be abundant, however, you will be able to find one of a kind crafts and for the most part enough necessities to get by.

In major cities that cater to tourists such as Rio de Janeiro and San Paulo, there are plenty of night clubs, bars and restaurants. Brazilian food is extremely tasty and the mix of culture, music and people make Brazil one of the top destinations on earth.

Cost of Living

One of the reasons that Brazil draws expats is due to the very affordable cost of living. The cost of living in Brazil is extremely low. Expats can enjoy an extremely comfortable life in Brazil with much less salary than in the states. With $1,000 per month, you can live very well which includes a decent place to live, quality food and entertainment and pay for all your necessities such as water, electricity and satellite TV.

A car in Brazil usually costs about $6,000 and gas is about $3 per gallon. However, public transportation is extremely cheap. Taxis in certain areas are cheap as well. If you are looking to even live on less, you can venture out to the smaller towns and villages. While conveniences are found few and far between, if you are looking for adventure, your money can last for a much longer period of time.

Web Sites for Expats in Brazil

BrazilMax

BrazilMax is a travel website, but not any old travel website. We focus on what we call roots tourism - eco, cultural, historical, rural, adventure, mature and business. Our aim is to help travelers - both genuine and virtual - better understand Brazilian society and culture. We try to offer an eclectic and unpredictable mix of content that will both satisfy and stimulate curiosity. For those who actually get on a plane, we try to offer the kind of practical advice that will enrich the independent travel experience.

Gringoes: On the Go, In the Know

Brazil's first portal for the foreign community. Gringoes.com was set up to provide a one-stop source of information for the growing foreign community in Brazil.

Extradition from Brazil

The Extradition treaty between Brazil and the United States of America was signed on two separate occasions, January 13, 1961 and June 18, 1962

This treaty was entered into force on December 17, 1964