How to Get Work in Brazil if You're American

Introduction

You are vacationing in Brazil and lose your money. How do you get the money to pay your way? The obvious answer is “get a job!”. Well, it is not quite that simple. Several countries implemented a Working Holiday Visa program, which allows a traveler to work and make money to help with expenses while visiting their country. But Brazil does not have a Working Holiday Visa with any country as the jobs are needed for their citizens. Additionally, residents of some countries can enter Brazil on a passport and no visa, as long as their stay does not exceed 90 days. The United States is not one of these countries. Even though the United States do not have a Working Holiday Visa program with Brazil and a Visa from the Brazillian Embassy is required, an American can work in Brazil. This article will tell you how.

By: Sarah Wilson, CCRP

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Instructions

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Difficulty: Moderate

Tips & Warnings:

Become familiar with Brazil's culture before visiting.
Learn some words in the native language, even if it is only "hello" and "thank you".
Consult with your travel agent or your Consulate General offices to make sure you apply for the right visa.

Step1

Get a passport Get a Passport and Visa

To work in Brazil, you must ensure you acquire the right visa. Citizens can file with the Consulate General of Brazil representing their state. For example, the Atlanta Consulate General of Brazil serves Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi and Tennessee. Therefore, residents in those U.S. States need to file for a Visa at the Atlanta Consulate. It is important to note that several of the Consulate General offices do not accept applications by mail. According to the Brazilian Embassy in Washington’s website, there are ten different Visas representing various entry requirements. For example, athletes and artists (e.g. singers, performers) require “Temporary Visa III (VITEM-III)” while Americans visiting family and friends need Temporary Visa I. Most importantly, persons holding “Temporary Visa 1” credentials are not allowed to work in Brazil.

Step2

Get a job on a cruise ship Get a job on a cruise line.

Working on board a cruise ship in Brazilian waters is a fun way to work in Brazil. However, you will need Temporary Visa V to work on the cruise line so don't forget to apply for the correct visa.

Step3

Work as a researcher Accept a job offer.

Professionals such as scientists, researchers, and teachers accepting a job offer in their area of expertise may work in Brazil on Temporary Visa V.

Step4

Volunteer to teach Volunteer!

Not all work has to result in monetary compensation. There are several volunteer work programs and several are requesting people to teach English. See resource section below for more information on teaching English in Brazil.