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The vibrant musical cities, diverse landscapes, and warm embrace of the culture make Brazil a top destination for expats! This guide walks you through the key steps of moving to Brazil from the UK, covering visa options, moving costs, removal companies, and the best places to live in Brazil.
Moving a household using sea freight can take a few weeks, but it’s the most common and cheapest option. Air freight is faster, but can easily cost up to £7,500 for a one-bedroom compared to £3,000. Final pricing is based on the distance, volume, and any other services like storage or packing.
These are the average moving costs to Brazil using sea freight.
| Volume | Average cost |
| One-bedroom | £3,000 – £4,400 |
| Three-bedroom house | £5,500 – £6,800 |
Get an exact quote on your moving to Brazil costs by estimating the volume of your move:
Calculate My CostsPicking the right international moving company to Brazil can be overwhelming, but Sirelo makes it easy. Browse through the many international removal companies in the UK and read about their services, qualifications, and reviews. Then get in touch to receive free quotes.
Top 5 international removal companies to Brazil from the UK:
📍 Edinburgh
📍 Dartford
📍 Slough
Get Free Quotes on Moving to Brazil
Brazil allows UK citizens to stay in the country for 90 days without a visa, with the option to extend for another 90 days. If you want to move to Brazil long-term and work there, you’ll need a visa. Luckily, there are options.
The Brazil work visa for UK citizens differentiates between temporary and permanent visas.
Temporary Visas (VITEM Series)
Permanent Visa Brazil
This visa offers long-term residency and is usually applied for by retirees, family members of Brazilian nationals, or foreign investors meeting specific criteria.
Digital Nomad Visa
Brazil introduced this visa to attract remote workers who earn income outside Brazil. You’ll need a monthly income of at least $1,500 (around £1,230) or a bank balance of $18,000 (about £14,700). The application fee is around £100 and the process time is around 2–4 weeks.
The visa lets you stay in Brazil for one year, with renewal for another year available. You’ll have to register with the Brazilian Federal Police within 90 days after arrival. If you stay more than 183 days per year, you might need to pay income tax (ranging from 7.5% to 25%).
Family Reunion Visa
If you have family ties to a Brazilian citizen or resident, this visa allows you to join them. You’ll need proof of family ties, valid identification, and background checks. Note that this visa lets you live in Brazil, but doesn’t automatically grant work authorization.
Before applying for the Brazil work visa (VITEM V), you need to have secured a job with a Brazilian company. You can obtain a work permit from Brazil’s Ministry of Labour, which the Brazilian consulate in the UK needs to process the visa application.
Once approved, visit the Brazilian Consulate and submit the required documents (passport, passport photo, visa application, and other forms). The visa fee is approximately £105.
After the visa is issued (usually 3–4 weeks), you have 90 days to enter Brazil and register with the Federal Police. The VITEM V visa is valid for two years, with the option to renew and eventually transition to a permanent visa.
Working abroad in Brazil as a UK citizen can be challenging, as the job market is fierce and the salaries often lower than in European countries. If you’re having trouble finding a job, you can go the entrepreneurial route too. Many expats teach English or set up their own business while living in Brazil.
You can move your dog with you to Brazil, as long as you comply with these rules:
Many expats live in the safer, well-located areas in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, which are more expensive but still much cheaper than England. The average cost of living in Brazil varies based on the city, neighbourhood, and your lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look!
If you’re moving to Brazil from the UK, you can expect your money to go far (depending on your income)! On average, the cost of living in Rio de Janeiro is 63% lower than in London. You only need around £1,900 to have the same standard of living as with £6,900 in London.
Rent prices are significantly lower, same as restaurants and groceries. Expats often report that imported goods and services, as well as international school tuition, are expensive.
| Item | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | London, UK |
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | £4.33 | £20.00 |
| Pint of Beer | £1.29 | £6.50 |
| Regular Cappuccino | £1.40 | £3.72 |
| Single Transport Ticket | £0.82 | £2.95 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Centre) | £311.53 | £2,145.00 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, Outside Centre) | £220.97 | £1,595.46 |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | £266.35 | £3,493.22 |
You might feel lost with so many great options, wondering what the best place to live is in Brazil. From cosmopolitan city life to laid-back beach vibes, Brazil has plenty of options for expats.
São Paulo
Brazil’s financial capital has plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment. With a strong expat community, it’s popular among foreigners in finance, tech, and international business. São Paulo is more expensive than other Brazilian cities.
Rio de Janeiro
The beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes make Rio very attractive for people looking to move to Brazil. Ipanema and Leblon are more expensive neighbourhoods, but a good choice for expats that prioritize safety.
Brasília
The capital has a modern layout and architecture. Most expats here work as diplomats or for the government or international organisations. The planned nature makes this city less vibrant, but it’s safe and there are good schools.
Florianópolis
If you’re looking for laid-back beach vibes and safe living areas, this is your city. With lower costs of living and beautiful beaches, Florianópolis is ideal for remote workers and entrepreneurs.
Curitiba
Affordable, clean, efficient, and organised are the words that describe this city. The mild climate and great infrastructure attract many expats to the ever-growing community. A quiet life with easy access to cultural and recreational activities awaits.
Belo Horizonte
This scenic city has become an increasingly popular choice for expats moving to Brazil. The low living costs, culinary scene, and green parks make it a great choice for families and retirees.
When living in Brazil as an expat, you’re in for a treat. Brazilians are warm and lively, just like their climate, landscapes, and cities. There’s music, dancing, and outdoor adventures all around! Expats find it easy to build community, although it can be challenging when you don’t speak Portuguese. English is spoken less outside major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
With higher crime rates than in England, many foreigners live in secure neighbourhoods and avoid certain areas (after dark). It’s wise to research the area thoroughly when looking for housing in Brazil.
While there are no exact numbers on the British expats in Brazil, the community expanded significantly over the years due to the growing economy, interesting work opportunities, and cultural appeal. Most Brits live in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
With its warm temperatures, friendly locals, carnival, and music all year long, it’s hard not to fall in love with Brazil’s culture! The ever-growing expat community makes it easy to feel at home. But of course, there are also cons of living in Brazil.
With a digital nomad visa and an easily lovable culture, it’s no surprise that you’re interested in moving to Brazil. But how exactly do you move from the UK to Brazil? Here’s a handy checklist.
