Working in Brazil
For transparency, AI has been used during the generation of this content, with every care taken to verify its accuracy. Last updated April 2026.
Average Salary
The average gross monthly salary across all sectors in Brazil is approximately R$3,500 – R$4,200 (approximately USD $670 - $800). Salaries vary significantly by region, with higher averages in major cities such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasília. In addition, workers receive a mandatory “13th salary”, which equates to an extra month’s salary paid in two instalments across the year.
Expats working in specialist and technical roles – particularly in engineering, oil and gas, renewable energy, and infrastructure – typically earn considerably more. Mid-level engineers often earn R$12,000 – R$20,000 per month (USD $2,400 - $4,000), while senior professionals in the energy sector can command R$25,000+ per month (USD $5,000+), particularly in offshore oil, mining, and large-scale construction projects.
General information
Currency
Brazilian Real (R$)
Official language
Portuguese
Conversational languages
Portuguese (Brazilian variant) English Spanish
Time zone
Fernando de Noronha Standard Time (UTC -02:00) Brasilia Standard Time (UTC -03:00) Amazon Standard Time (UTC -04:00) Acre Standard Time (UTC -05:00)
Common types of Employment or Contracting
Brazil offers a range of employment and contracting arrangements depending on your professional circumstances.
Common types of employment
Common types of contracting
Already secured a job overseas?
If you have secured an assignment but are unsure of where to start with setting up as a Freelancer or B2B contractor, please feel free to reach out to our International team for assistance.
Living in Brazil
Brazil offers a vibrant and diverse lifestyle, with the country influenced by a mixture of Indigenous, African, European, and Asian cultural influences. Major cities such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro offer dynamic business environments, international schools, and a lively social scene, while coastal and southern regions provide a more relaxed pace of life. Brazil is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world, with the country considered a melting pot of different races and cultures.
- The cost of living varies across the country considerably. São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are the most expensive cities, particularly in central and beachfront neighbourhoods.
- The average cost of a weekly grocery shop for a small family is roughly R$450 – R$750 (USD $80 - $135)
- Monthly rent for a 2 – 3-bedroom property is around R$3,500 – R$8,000 (USD $700 - $1,600). This is higher in prime areas
- Monthly childcare costs roughly R$1,500 – R$3,000 (USD $300 - $600)
- Petrol costs around R$5.80 per litre (USD $1.16); diesel costs R$6 per litre (USD $1.20). These prices can fluctuate depending on local and international oil markets.
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road in Brazil. Foreign driving licences are generally valid for up to 180 days after obtaining residency. After this period, drivers must obtain a Brazilian licence (CNH – Carteira Nacional de Habilitação), which may require written and practical exams depending on nationality and reciprocity agreements.
Weather in Brazil
Brazil has a predominantly tropical and subtropical climate, though conditions vary by region. Northern regions experience hot, humid weather year-round, while the south has more defined seasons.
In summer (December – March), temperatures in cities such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro typically range between 25°C and 35°C, with higher humidity in coastal areas. Winter (June – August) is mild in most regions, with temperatures between 12°C and 22°C, though southern states can experience cooler temperatures below 10°C and occasional frost.
Language and integration support
Portuguese is essential for daily life and professional integration. Many municipalities and private institutions offer Portuguese language courses for expats. Some state governments and community organisations also provide subsidised integration and language support programmes.
For any translation needs - especially those required for work permit or visa applications - our dedicated Languages team is ready to support you. They provide accurate, timely translations and can guide you through the process to ensure all necessary documents meet the required standards.
Our services in Brazil
Across the globe, we support energy and engineering companies with the international recruitment and global mobilisation solutions they need to extend their capability and grow their businesses.
Find out about our international services
Global mobility
NRL Recruitment simplifies international employee relocation with seamless global mobility services. From visa assistance to cultural onboarding, we ensure your staff transitions smoothly across borders, minimising disruption and maximising productivity.
Payroll solutions
Managing payroll across multiple countries can be complex, but our payroll solutions make it simple. We handle accurate, compliant compensation for your global workforce, ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time, every time.
Global employer of record
With our global employer of record services, you can legally employ staff overseas without establishing local entities. We manage compliance, contracts, and HR administration, giving you the freedom to expand globally with confidence and ease.
International recruitment
Finding the right talent worldwide is effortless with our international recruitment solutions. We connect your business with top-tier professionals, managing the end-to-end hiring process so you can focus on growth and strategic priorities.
