If you’re looking for your next digital nomad destination, why not consider Brazil? Brazil, a huge country in South America, is incredibly diverse and features friendly people, fun parties, and gorgeous scenery! As a remote worker, the Brazil digital nomad visa is your golden ticket to combine work and wanderlust in a country renowned for its samba rhythms, Carnival extravaganzas, and mouthwatering feijoada.
So, together, in this ultimate guide, let’s discover this amazing new Brazil digital nomad visa. We’ll cover everything you need to know, including requirements, cost, alternative visas, and more! And since this is an ultimate guide, we’ll also go over everything else you need to know about the digital nomad life in Brazil, including the cost of living, best places to live, tax, coworking spaces, and more!
Does Brazil Have a Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, Brazil has a digital nomad visa as of January 2022! This visa, also called the VITEM XIV, allows foreigners to enter Brazil and work while visiting and getting to know this diverse South American country. Before we dive deep into the details of everything you need to know about the Brazil digital nomad visa, here’s a quick snapshot and summary of this visa:
- The Brazilian digital nomad visa is a temporary residence permit that is valid for one year, but you can also extend it for another year.
- Brazil is one of the few countries that allows you to work remotely in the country on a tourist visa, so if you only plan to stay for 3 months or less, you don’t need a digital nomad visa.
- As a digital nomad in Brazil, you will be eligible for the free healthcare system.
- If you’re a foreigner who works online and earns at least $1,500 USD per month, you’re eligible to apply for this visa!
- While the visa fee varies depending on where you apply, it is generally around $130 USD.
Brazil Digital Nomad Visa
Brazil has long been on the radar of travelers all around the world, including digital nomads. And as of 2022, you can now apply for the Brazil digital nomad visa to make your dream a reality! In the past, most digital nomads simply rocked up to Brazil on a tourist visa, but with the digital nomad visa, you can now stay for up to a year (or two if you extend the visa)! So you can fully enjoy everything the country has to offer!
Brazil Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
- You must have a valid passport with at least two blank pages
- You must be able to prove that you earn at least $1,500 USD per month or you must provide proof of $18,000 USD in your bank account
- You must be able to prove that you are a digital nomad
- You must not have a criminal record from your country of residence
- You must provide a birth certificate that has your parents’ full names
- You must have health insurance that is valid in Brazil during your stay
Who Can Apply for the Brazil Digital Nomad Visa?
Anyone without a Brazilian passport can apply for a Brazil digital nomad visa. Just make sure that you meet the above requirements for this visa. That means you must be a digital nomad who doesn’t work for a Brazilian company, and you must earn a minimum of $1,500 per month or $18,000 in your bank account.
Note that if you are from certain countries in South America that are a part of Mercosur (such as Argentina and Paraguay), you do not need to apply for the Brazil digital nomad visa to live and work in the country.
Documents Needed to Apply for the Brazil Digital Nomad Visa
So, what documents do you need to prepare in order to apply for the Brazil digital nomad visa?
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Birth certificate with parents’ full names
- Completed visa application form
- One recent 5×7 photograph
- Criminal record document from country of origin
- Health insurance valid during your entire stay in Brazil
- Declaration to attest to being a digital nomad
- Employment or service agreement or similar documentation that proves income comes from abroad
- Proof of $1,500 per month from a foreign source or bank funds of at least $18,000
- Payment of the consular fee
How to Apply for the Brazil Digital Nomad Visa: Step-by-Step Guide
Step One: Make Sure You Meet the Requirements and Have the Required Documents
First things first, make sure you are eligible for the Brazil digital nomad visa in the first place. Getting all your documents ready ahead of time will make the application process more seamless!
Step Two: Fill Out the Online Application
When you’re ready to apply, simply fill out the online application. At this point, you’ll need to upload your documents and a photo of your passport. After successfully completing the application, you will receive an application number and a receipt.
Step Three: Make an Appointment
Make an appointment at the nearest consulate and bring all the documents with you, including the receipt. Print out the application receipt, glue a photo to the designated spot on the receipt, and sign it. Make sure to prepare the original copies of the uploaded documents as well.
Step Four: Go to the Appointment
At the appointment, give the consulate all the original documents and the receipt. The consulate will review your application and ask for a non-refundable payment for the visa.
Step Five: Get Approved
The visa will then be processed within 3 to 4 weeks. If you do not hear back in this timeframe, contact your local Brazilian consulate for assistance.
Step Six: Arrive in Brazil
Once your digital nomad visa approved, you can enter Brazil! Keep in mind, that within 90 days after entering the country, you must register your stay with the Federal Police.
Extending the Brazil Digital Nomad Visa
While the Brazil digital nomad visa only lasts for one year initially, you can extend the visa for another year if you want! An interesting thing about this extension is that there is no set amount of time you must spend in the country in order to extend it. So, even if you only spent 3 months of the year in Brazil, you can extend the digital nomad visa for another year.
Cost of Brazil Digital Nomad Visa
The cost of a Brazil digital nomad visa depends on your country of residence, but generally, the application itself will cost around $130. That said there will be other fees to consider.
- Criminal record check: $10 to $20
- Notary/translation: 10 to 20 cents per word
- Health insurance: $80 to $200 per month
How Long Does It Take to Get a Digital Nomad Visa in Brazil?
The Brazil digital nomad visa is still in its early stages, but, on average, you should expect to get your approved digital nomad visa within 3 to 4 weeks. However, note that the processing time can differ depending on the consulate.
Alternatives to the Digital Nomad Visa in Brazil
If you work remotely and want to stay in Brazil for longer than a few months, the digital nomad visa is likely your best option. That said, there are few good alternatives that we will go over below.
Tourist Visa
Brazil is one of the few countries in the world where it’s entirely legal to be a digital nomad on a tourist visa. The tourist visa is only valid for 90 days, but there is a possibility to renew the tourist visa for an additional 90 days, for a total of 180 days, or 6 months, within a 12-month period. For most digital nomads, that should be sufficient time to get to know the country and explore what Brazil has to offer.
For citizens of many countries (check out the list here), you may not even need to apply for a tourist visa at all. You can simply get a visa-on-arrival.
Residence Permit
If you are already in Brazil, you can instead apply for a residence permit. But keep in mind that this requires a lot of time and bureaucracy, so many digital nomads leave Brazil to apply for a digital nomad visa from their home country before returning.
However, if the long wait time and paperwork don’t bother you, you can apply for a residence permit through the MigranteWeb system. You’ll need pretty much the same documents as you’ll need for the digital nomad visa, as well as a criminal record check in Brazil as well. Additional documentation may be needed depending on the officer.
Can You Work in Brazil as a Digital Nomad on a Tourist Visa?
Yes, you can work in Brazil as a digital nomad on a tourist visa. Unlike most other countries where this is technically illegal, the Brazilian government specifically states that if a digital nomad plans to stay in the country for fewer than 90 or 180 days (with extension), they can simply stay in Brazil on a tourist visa. Keep in mind that how long you can stay depends on your nationality, so make sure to double-check how long you can stay as a tourist in Brazil.
Tax Requirements for Digital Nomads in Brazil
Here’s the thing. Most digital nomads won’t be tax residents in Brazil. To become a tax resident, you must be in Brazil for more than 183 days. But since most digital nomads live in Brazil on a tourist visa, which is only valid for 180 days, you won’t have to worry about paying tax in the country.
However, if you are on the Brazil digital nomad visa and stay for more than 183 days within a 12-month period, you are now a tax resident. When this happens, your income is subject to Brazilian taxes. Even if you technically earn foreign income as your money comes from non-Brazilian companies and individuals, your income will be subject to tax. Brazil has a progressive tax rate of up to 27.5%.
Pro tip: Make sure your home country has a bilateral agreement with Brazil in order to avoid the dreaded double taxation!
Is Brazil a Good Place for Digital Nomads?
Definitely! Brazil is a great place for digital nomads to set up shop. There are many advantages to making your temporary home in Brazil, but you should consider some of the cons as well.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Amazing weather. Brazil is a warm country that boasts tropical weather. And don’t worry if it gets too hot; when that happens, you can head straight for the beach! | Crime rates. Unfortunately, Brazil has a higher crime rate than many other countries around the world, especially when it comes to violent crime. |
| Beautiful country. Brazil is one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in the world. It is filled to the brim with amazing landscapes and scenery – from mountains to jungles and waterfalls and more. | Traffic and crowding. Some parts of Brazil are incredibly crowded, which means some pretty intense traffic as well! If you’d like to avoid this, try staying in a smaller town. |
| Relatively affordable. Most digital nomads will find that the cost of living here is more affordable than in other parts of the world. You can still maintain a comfortable lifestyle here on a tighter budget. | Language barrier. If you don’t speak any Portuguese, you might want to brush up on the language to make your life easier while living in Brazil! |
| Friendly and open people. The Brazilian people are known for being friendly for a reason! The people here know how to have a good time, and you certainly won’t struggle to make friends with the locals here. | Pollution. While Brazil boasts amazing natural scenery, Brazil also has some major pollution issues. Even the beaches in Brazil are some of the most polluted in South America! |
Is Brazil Safe for Digital Nomads?
Brazil definitely has a reputation for not being a beginner-friendly travel destination, and part of that has to do with its relatively higher crime rate. But here’s the good news: Crime rates have been declining! The other thing to keep in mind is that violent crime generally occurs between people who know each other and is generally gang-related. So, as long as you stay away from areas with high gang activity (and, yes, that means the favelas!), you should be able to have a safe and fun time in Brazil!
With that said, Brazil also has an issue with petty crime, so it’s always good practice to follow some safety tips:
- Don’t walk alone at night.
- Walk as though you know where you’re going.
- Don’t put valuables in your pockets.
- Leave your flashy and gold jewelry at home.
- Don’t leave your things unattended.
- Avoid outdoor (unguarded) ATMs.
- Don’t leave the house with all of your cash and cards.
- Use Uber when you can.
- Don’t accept a free drink or free food.
- Double-check the area of your accommodation before you book.
Best Places to Live in Brazil for Digital Nomads
So, now that you’ve decided to move to Brazil and get a digital nomad visa, where exactly should you go? Brazil is a gigantic country, and no city or town is the same, so you will have more options than you’ll know what to do with. But to help narrow down your ideal place, here are the places to live in Brazil for digital nomads.
Rio De Janeiro
Rio needs no introduction. It’s a sprawling seaside city that is the perfect combination of relaxation and fun. The best thing about this city is that there is just so much to do and see. Of course, Rio is famous for its carnivals and culture, but the city also boasts delicious food as and abundant nature. While it is true that Rio is a giant coastal city (population of more than 12 million people!), Rio is also home to a myriad of outdoor activities, perfect for nature lovers and cosmopolitans looking for a weekend getaway.
As a digital nomad, it’s important to pick a place with decent wifi. You’ll find good wifi all over the city, including in coffee shops and coworking spaces. There’s also a decently-sized digital nomad community here. Finally, the modern and developed public transport is definitely a huge draw to the city!
Fortaleza
A seaside city famous for its red cliffs, dunes, and lagoons, Fortaleza is the fifth largest city in Brazil. Boasting gorgeous beaches and a party atmosphere, it’s no wonder Fortaleza is one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads and tourists alike. This city is a great jumping point for discovering the state of Ceara, where you can explore the cute towns and fishing villages. The surrounding nature is a huge pull to this city, too.
There’s a relatively large expat and digital nomad community in Fortaleza, so you’ll be making new friends in no time. And if you can brush up on your Portuguese, the locals are also super friendly and easy to get to know.
Sao Paulo
When you think of cities in Brazil, one of the two places you’ll think of is likely Sao Paulo, the biggest city in South America and the fourth-largest city in the world. Yes, the world! A megacity by all standards, Sao Paulo boasts tall skyscrapers and a diverse community. People from all over the world come to Sao Paulo, making it a true melting pot. For this reason, there are some fascinating neighborhoods to explore! And yes, the food is amazing, too! If you’re not too bothered about having access to nature and don’t mind some of the world’s worst traffic, Sao Paulo can be an awesome place for you. Plus, if you don’t speak Portuguese, it won’t be as much of an issue here as it would be in other Brazilian cities and towns.
You probably won’t find faster wifi in Brazil than you would in Sao Paulo, which makes it perfect for digital nomads. There are also cafes and coworking spaces where you can set up shop. During your downtime, there’s plenty to do in the city, including visiting museums and galleries, trying out new restaurants, and exploring the city’s nightlife.
Florianopolis
Nestled on an island just off the southern coast of Brazil, Florianopolis offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban living. Affectionately known as “Floripa,” this island has an almost European style and is one of the safest places to live in the country. Floripa boasts stunning beaches, forests, and mountains. It’s a great city for surfers as well!
The island has reliable wifi, and you’ll find numerous cafes and coworking spaces where you can set up your remote office. As a hotspot for digital nomads, you definitely won’t struggle to find other expats and digital nomads in the city. This also means you might be able to get away with just a basic level of Portuguese. The locals are super friendly and open to meeting new people, making it easier to integrate into the community.
Recife
Recife, often referred to as the “Venice of Brazil” due to its intricate network of canals and waterways (and bridges, of course!), is a vibrant and historical city. Digital nomads love Recife for its lively culture and beautiful beaches. Plus, if you’re a fan of beautiful architecture, you can definitely see the city’s rich history reflected in its colorful heritage buildings. For nature lovers, you’d be pleased to know that Recife boasts the Mangrove Park, which is the largest urban mangrove swamp in the Americas! Furthermore, not too far away, you’ll find Porto de Galinhas, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country!
When it comes to working, don’t worry! There are plenty of cafes and coworking spaces in Recife, all with strong wifi.
Cost of Living in Brazil for Digital Nomads
Brazil is one of the biggest countries in the world, so it goes without saying that there’s a huge range when it comes to the cost of living as well. As a general rule, your stay in Brazil can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you make it.
Housing costs in Brazil vary widely by location. In major cities like Sao Paulo or Rio, you can find one-bedroom apartments in the range of 2,000 to 4,000 BRL per month, which is approximately $395 to $790 USD. In smaller cities or less expensive neighborhoods, you can secure accommodations for as low as 1,500 to 2,500 BRL per month or $300 to $495 USD.
Another major living cost is food. Again, keep in mind that prices in Sao Paulo or Rio are much higher than in places like Fortaleza – especially when it comes to eating out! Groceries for a month may cost anywhere between 600 to 900 BRL ($120 to $180 USD) per person. As for dining out, budget around 20 to 35 BRL ($4 to $7 USD) for a prato feito for lunch. On the other hand, dinner at a restaurant can cost anywhere between 40 and 100 BRL ($8 and $20 USD).
Healthcare in Brazil for Digital Nomads
Everyone applying for the Brazil digital nomad visa must provide evidence of health insurance that covers the duration of the entire stay. So, in terms of healthcare, you’ll be pretty much covered from day 1.
Interestingly, government-funded healthcare is actually free for all digital nomads to access. The Brazilian public healthcare system, Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), is free and universal to even tourists who are simply visiting the country. That means you don’t have to pay doctor’s fees, lab fees, hospitalization, surgery, or even prescription. Unfortunately, since everything is free, it does mean that you might have to deal with waiting times and substandard facilities.
For this reason, many digital nomads and expats opt for private healthcare instead. This is where your health insurance comes in handy. To help you understand how much private healthcare costs, a consultation with a private doctor may cost anywhere between BRL 100 to BRL 600 ($20 to $120 USD) or more.
Check out our list of the 10 best insurance options for digital nomads!
Best Coworking Spaces in Brazil
Coworking spaces are a business model that has exploded with the renaissance of remote work. Several years ago, they were almost unheard of. But today, in some cities, they are on every other street corner! Brazil, like any other digital nomad destination, has plenty of coworking spaces to go around. Here are a few standouts we found:
- WeWork Almirante Barroso (Rio de Janeiro): 120 BRL (24 USD) per day or 880 BRL (175 USD) per month for a private desk.
- CoLab Workspace (Sao Paulo): 60 BRL per day for a desk in shared space, other pricing upon request.
- WeWork Av. Paulista – 1374 (Sao Paulo): 120 BRL (24 USD) per day or 880 BRL (175 USD per month) for a private desk in a shared space.
- Vilaj Coworking (Florianopolis): 45 BRL (9 USD) per day, 130 BRL (35 USD) for 20 hours, 480 BRL (95 USD) for a monthly plan
How to Find a Place to Live in Brazil
So, you’ve got your Brazil digital nomad visa approved, and you are ready to make the big move! What next? One of the first steps when moving to a new country is finding a place to live. As a digital nomad, there are a few things you’ll want to look out for in an apartment. Here are a few important things to make sure you have in place for your remote work pad in Brazil.
- Strong internet connection: Few things are as important as wifi to a digital nomad. Without good wifi in your home, your work life will be much more difficult, and you’ll have to rely on coworking spaces and cafes. In general, big cities in Brazil have pretty strong internet connection, but you should still check with your landlord before signing anything.
- Good (and safe) location: Brazil is not the safest country in the world, so you should do your research to make sure you are looking at safe areas in Brazilian cities. Additionally, you’ll want to check how central your location is, as Brazilian cities are HUGE.
- Contract length: Finding an apartment with a short-term lease can be a bit of a mission as most landlords are hesitant to hand out contracts for fewer than 12 or even 18 months.
- Air conditioning: Most destinations in Brazil are super hot and humid, so for most people, having AC is a non-negotiable. We highly recommend making sure you find an apartment with AC. You’ll thank us later!
Where to Find Apartments in Brazil?
Figuring out how to find a place to live is definitely a major hurdle when moving to a new place. Here are a few of our top tips for finding apartments in Brazil.
Word of Mouth
This won’t always be a viable option, especially if you don’t know anyone in Brazil, but getting advice from a local or another digital nomad is a smart option. Getting a local to help you out allows you to bypass the headache of apartment hunting. Someone who lives in Brazil will have some insider tips for finding a good place to live!
Real Estate and Rental Websites
Another great way to find accommodation in Brazil is to use rental listing websites. Here are a few of the best sites for apartment hunting in Brazil.
- Alugar temporada (specializes in short term rentals)
- Zap
- Viva Real
Join Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are an extremely useful tool for digital nomads. There are hundreds of digital nomad Facebook groups for networking, meeting new people, and finding a place to live. Here are some useful Facebook groups for digital nomads in Brazil.
- Expats World Rio de Janeiro
- Aluguel Apartamento – Rio De Janeiro
- Foreigners in Brazil
- Digital Nomads Florianópolis – Brazil
Travel Accommodation Sites
Listen. Travel accommodation sites are a great way to go if you are a tourist and you are visiting a country for a week or two. But, if you are planning to stay for several months, you’ll get a lot more bang for your buck if you look for a more permanent option.
We aren’t big on endorsing travel accommodation sites for digital nomads. You read up on why that is in our digital nomad ethics guide.
All that said, travel accommodation sites can be a good lifeline or fallback plan if your permanent accommodation falls through or if you need a place to stay short term. Here are a few of our top choices.
Brazil, Here We Come!
Brazil is quickly becoming one of the most popular digital nomad countries in South America. And for good reason! So, if a Brazilian remote work life seems like the dream to you, you should hop on the bandwagon and apply for the digital nomad visa.
Check out our digital nomad visa page for more info on countries offering visas to remote workers.
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