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Moving to Brazil from USA

Costs, Visas & Living in Brazil

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Moving to Brazil from the USA is an attractive option for many Americans looking for a warmer climate, lower cost of living, and a vibrant lifestyle. This guide explains removal costs to Brazil, shipping options, visa requirements, cost of living, and how to choose the best moving companies from the USA to Brazil.

Key Takeaways

  • The cost of moving from the USA to Brazil usually ranges between $4,000 and $9,000, depending on shipment size and method.
  • US citizens can stay in Brazil visa-free for 90 days; longer stays require a residence visa.
  • Several established international moving companies handle relocations from the USA to Brazil, including Granero Moving, East Coast Shipping, Nobel Relocations, Mobility Unbound, and Transparent International.
  • The cost of living in Brazil is 40–60% lower than in the USA, especially for housing and groceries.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship Household Goods to Brazil?

The average cost of moving from the USA to Brazil ranges between $2,000 and $9,000 on average. Final prices depend on your departure city, shipment volume, and whether you choose container shipping or air freight.

Shipping optionAverage costTransit time
20 ft container (1–2 bedroom home)$4,000 – $6,0004–6 weeks
40 ft container (3–4 bedroom home)$7,000 – $9,0004–6 weeks
Air freight (small shipments)From $2,0001–2 weeks

Updated: January 2026. Disclaimer: Prices are estimates. For accurate rates, request personalized moving quotes.

What’s the Cheapest Way to Ship to Brazil from the USA?

The cheapest way to ship to Brazil from the USA is usually LCL (Less than Container Load) container shipping. With this option, you share a container and only pay for the space used, making it ideal for small removals to Brazil.

Moving Companies from the USA to Brazil

These international movers specialize in removals to Brazil and offer container shipping, packing, insurance and customs support:

Granero Moving


Pros

 Strong international relocation experience
 Good communication
 Suitable for full container loads

Cons

 Pricing can be higher for small shipments

East Coast Shipping


Pros

 Careful handling of furniture
 Experience with maritime shipping
 Flexible container options

Cons

 Limited customer feedback volume

Nobel Relocations


Pros

 Highly rated professionalism
 Strong South America network
 Full-service relocation support

Cons

 Premium services increase total cost

Mobility Unbound


Pros

 Helpful customer service
 Suitable for partial household moves

Cons

 Smaller operational scale for long-distance routes

Furniture Removals to Brazil

Most movers also handle furniture removals to Brazil, including packing, dismantling, insurance and storage. For budget-friendly options, LCL shipping is often the best solution.

How to Move to Brazil from the USA

US citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. For long-term relocation, a visa is required.

Visa Process

  1. Apply at a Brazilian consulate in the USA
  2. Submit passport, application, proof of income or contract
  3. Processing time: 2–8 weeks
  4. Register with the Federal Police within 90 days of arrival

Common Visa Types

  • Student visa – Enrollment at a Brazilian institution
  • Work visa – Sponsored by a Brazilian employer
  • Retirement visa – Proof of stable monthly income (≈ $2,000)
  • Permanent residency – Family reunification, marriage or investment

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Moving Pets from the USA to Brazil

Pets require:

For official requirements and updates, consult Brazil’s pet import regulations through the Ministry of Agriculture before traveling.

Learn more about moving abroad with pets, including costs, crate requirements, and travel regulations by destination.

Living in Brazil as an American

Many Americans living in Brazil enjoy affordability, climate, and social life. Learning Portuguese and adapting to bureaucracy are the main challenges, but expat communities are well established.

Cultural Adjustment

  • Adapting to Portuguese is important for daily life, work, and professional integration.
  • Bureaucratic processes — visas, tax ID, registrations — take time and documentation.
  • Social norms emphasize personal relationships and community engagement.

Healthcare and Insurance

  • Brazil has both public (SUS) and private healthcare systems; public care is free but can be slower.
  • Private health plans deliver quicker access and broader services; many expats choose them.
  • Expat/nomad insurance plans are recommended and sometimes required for visas.

Safety and Expat Jobs

  • The job market can be competitive, and Portuguese skills significantly improve chances of local employment.
  • Many expats work remotely or via multinational sponsorships rather than finding local roles on arrival.
  • Safety varies by city and neighbourhood; personal precautions and local knowledge are advised.

Best Cities in Brazil for Expats

  • São Paulo – Financial hub with international job opportunities
  • Florianópolis – Safe, coastal city popular with families and digital nomads
  • Rio de Janeiro – Iconic lifestyle with higher living costs

Cost of living in São Paulo, Brazil, is typically 10–20% higher than the national average, mainly due to housing and services.

Cost of Living in Brazil vs USA

Average monthly living costs in Brazil range between $1,000 and $1,400, including rent in major cities.

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

Source: Numbeo, updated January 2026.

Pros and Cons of Living in Brazil

Pros

 Lower cost of living
 Warm climate
 Rich culture
 Friendly communities.

Cons

 Portuguese language barrier
 Slow bureaucracy
 Imported goods expensive

Ready to Move to Brazil?

Comparing multiple quotes is the most effective way to reduce international moving costs. Request quotes and find the best USA to Brazil moving company for your relocation.

Frequently asked questions

Do Americans need a visa to move to Brazil?

How much does it cost to move from the USA to Brazil?

What is the cheapest way to ship household goods to Brazil?

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

How to immigrate to Brazil from USA?

How long does shipping from the USA to Brazil take?