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Moving to Brazil from USA

Moving information, Living, and Visas

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This guide will help you understand the essentials of moving to Brazil from USA including living expenses, visas, shipping costs and the best places to live.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cost of moving from USA to Brazil usually ranges between $4000-$9000, depending on distance and shipment size.
  • US citizens can visit Brazil visa-free for 90 days, however, longer stays require a student, work, retirement or residency visa.
  • The cost of living in Brazil in US dollars is around 40-60% lower than in the USA, specifically for housing and groceries.

Removal to Brazil Costs

The general cost of moving from USA to Brazil varies between $2,000 – $9,000 on average. This depends on where in the USA you are moving from and the shipping method.

How Much Would It Cost to Move My Stuff to Brazil

If you are wondering how much it would cost to ship to Brazil from USA then, on average:

Shipping OptionAverage CostTime Frame
20 ft Container (1-2 bedroom)$4,000 – $6,0004 – 6 weeks
40 ft Container (3-4 bedrooms)$7,000 – $9,0004 – 6 weeks
Air freight (small shipments)From $2,0001 – 2 weeks

Disclaimer: These are only estimates. To get accurate prices, request quotes, or check the international moving costs guide.

Cheapest Way to Ship to Brazil from USA

If you are looking for cheap removals to Brazil, a part-load service is often the best option. With LCL shipments, you share the container and only pay for the space you use, making it the cheapest wat to ship to Brazil from USA for small moves.

For more information, see our guide to to container shipping rates, which mentions costs by destination and container size. You can also calculate the moving space to get the most accurate results possible.

Moving companies from USA to Brazil

Choosing the best suiting international moving companies from USA to Brazil can save time and money. In this section you can find trusted providers offering international removals to Brazil. You can compare services and request quotes.

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Furniture Removals to Brazil

Most companies also specialize in furniture removals to Brazil, whether you are relocating an entire household or just a few large items. Services often include packing, disassembly and reassembly, insurance and storage. If budget is a concern, check out some of the inexpensive moving companies that still offer reliable services for international routes.

How to Move to Brazil from the USA

As a US citizen moving to Brazil, you do not need a visa for short term stays of up to 90 days. However, if you plan to work and live, or even retire in Brazil, you will need the appropriate visa.

Visa Types and Requirements

  • Student visa: For the people who are enrolled at Brazilian educational institutions
  • Work visa: Requires sponsorship from a Brazilian employer.
  • Retirement visa: Proof of stable monthly income (this is usually approx. $2,000)
  • Permanent residency: This can be obtained through family reunification, marriage, or investment.

Immigration Process to Brazil

If you are wondering how to immigrate to Brazil from USA, here are the steps:

  1. Apply for your visa at a Brazilian consulate in the US: Miami, New York, or San Francisco.
  2. Provide required documents, this includes a valid passport, completed application form, proof of income or a work contract, and sometimes a criminal record certificate.
  3. Processing time can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the visa type and consulate’s workload.
  4. Once your visa is approved, you can travel to Brazil. Upon entry, your passport will be stamped with the visa details.
  5. Within 90 days of arrival, all foreigners must register with the Portal da Polícia Federal. You will receive your RNE (Registro Nacional de Estrangeiro) or national foreigner ID card, which is essential for legal residency.

Moving Pets from USA to Brazil

When moving with pets from the USA to Brazil, owners should provide a veterinary health certificate, proof of rabies vaccination, and sometimes additional documents depending on the type of animal.

Living in Brazil as an American

Many Americans living in Brazil enjoy the warm climate, affordability, and cultural diversity. However, adapting to Portuguese, adjusting to local infrastructure, and navigating bureaucracy are all part of the expat experience.

Expats often ask: what is living in Brazil like? Expect a lively social scene, strong family values, and significantly lower costs compared to the USA. You can always connect with the established expat communities, and share your moving abroad experience.

Best cities in Brazil for expats

  • Sao Paulo– the country’s financial center with a large international community.
  • Florianopolis– a coastal, safe city popular among families and digital nomads
  • Rio de Janeiro– extremely famous for beaches and nightlife, but with higher living costs.

If you are considering relocating to Brazil, these cities provide a good balance of culture, opportunity and lifestyle.

Cost of Living in Brazil

The cost of living in Brazil per month averages between $1,000- $1,400 in major cities, including a one-bedroom apartment in the center of the city. Groceries, rent, and dining are very affordable even within the largest cities.

Cost of living in Brazil vs USA (in US dollars)

Expense (monthly)Brazil (USD)USA (USD)
Restaurants (1 meal)$6$16
Groceries$200$480
Transport (monthly pass)$46$80
Utilities$75$214

Disclaimer: this information has been taken from Numbeo – Cost of Living in Brazil, updated Sep 2025.

Cost of Living in São Paulo Brazil

São Paulo is one of the most expensive cities in Brazil. A 1-bedroom apartment in the center averages $650-$900 per month, while outside the center it is $400-$600.

Cost of Living in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is slightly more affordable than São Paulo, but still above national averages. A central apartment costs $500-$800/month, while outside the center it varies from $350-$500

Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Brazil

Pros

 Warm climate
 Mesmerizing natural landscapes
 Vibrant cultural life and friendly people
 Very affordable lifestyle compared to the USA

Cons

 The need to learn Portuguese for daily interactions
 Imported products can be very expensive
 Taking care of bureaucratic issues can be slow and frustrating

Frequently asked questions

Do Americans need a visa to move to Brazil?

What is the cheapest way to move to Brazil?

How much does it cost to live in Brazil compared to the USA?

How to immigrate to Brazil from USA?

What is the cost of living in Brazil?