Moving to Brazil from the US – outlander’s guide

If you’re moving to Brazil from the US, then you probably know that there are a lot of differences between the two. The thing is, those two countries are very much different. Not only do they differ in lifestyle choice, but also when it comes to the economy, infrastructure, housing prices and prices in general. Many people in the US will find that culture shock is sudden and pervasive. Luckily, as professional international movers Brazil, we here to help you adapt to your new environment when you’re done moving to Brazil from the US.

The economy is very different to that of the US

You should research about Brazilian economy before you move to Brazil from the US.

If you’ve lived in the US, you’re generally accustomed to some things, such as a working infrastructure, transparency in business and lack of corruption. Well, in Brazil, there’s none of that. Thing is, we could say that Brazil is a wonderful place to live in, and, for some people, it certainly is. However, Brazil is a developing country, which means that it hasn’t reached the standard of living you’d expect from USA, Germany, or Japan. Anyone moving to Brazil from the US would certainly do well to remember this. Some of the problems Brazil is currently facing are:

• The low growth of the economy – well, actually, it’s the lack of said growth. Brazil’s economy has been shrinking at the rate of about 3% every year. Should the trend continue, Brazil will be easily knocked off the international market.
• Unemployment – the unemployment rate in Brazil is slowly going into the double digits. In a country of 207 million people, this means that over 20 million people do not actually have a job, or work in the grey market. Now, imagine if entire Florida or New York was unemployed.
• What makes the crisis even worse is corruption, political crisis and even the possibility of military involvement. Yes, you heard that right. Add to this inefficient police, a surge in crime rates and numerous financial scandals, and you get the picture.

Reasons for moving to Brazil from the US

Agriculture is what will save Brazil’s economy.

Brazil is still an economic giant. It’s still a bit behind countries such as Japan or Germany but not that bad either. What may just save Brazil’s economy is not crude oil, if you can believe it. It’s agriculture. A bad harvest, such as the one Brazil faced at the beginning of 2018, may dampen economic growth a little bit, but the GDP is rising. And, of course, this means potential future investments. If you’re looking to invest and move your business to Brazil, even a tiny bit, and open a business down there, look for agriculture, such as corn, wheat, and organic products. You will easily find labor there – which brings us to our next point…

If you’re qualified in certain areas, you’re good to go

If you’re moving to Brazil from the US, you’re gonna have a hard time if you’re not qualified.

Most of the best-paid jobs in Brazil are government jobs. This means police officers, government, judiciary and army officials. But, since you’re moving to Brazil from the US, this means that you’re most likely going to the private sector. In Brazil, there’s a huge demand for highly-skilled, educated labor – this means engineers and technicians of all sorts.

If you wish to be a prosecutor, tax auditor or a judge – you have to become a citizen first, then study for 2 years, then you have to pass a rigorous exam. Lawyers get generally good pay, especially in the private sector.

The thing about the corruption we’ve mentioned? You see, due to an inefficient judicial system, disputes and claims often take their sweet time, so the lawyers can rest easy knowing that their services will often be needed. Corporate lawyers are always needed, too, and accountants as well. Alternatively, you could become a soccer player, if you are more of an athlete type of person.

Time to talk about some good stuff when moving to Brazil from the US

One thing many foreigners in the US find disquieting about the US is their healthcare system. In the US, the healthcare system is largely comprised of private-sector enterprises (about 60%). Some people agree with this type of system, others, not so much – some even call it the worst-performing system among developed countries! If you’re among the later types, this generally means that you’ll be relieved to find out that Brazilian healthcare is funded through taxes. Brazil also has a private healthcare sector if that’s your type of thing. Right to tax-funded healthcare is a constitutional right in Brazil.

When moving to Brazil from the US, know that your rights and freedoms will differ.

If you’re an investor, you will probably have a good time

Legally speaking, if you’re an investor, you’re in luck. Aside from a large amount of available workforce, lots of natural resources and Brazil’s continental proportions, it is widely known that Brazil attracts foreign investors like a flame attracts a moth. It’s still the 5th most populous country and the 7th largest economy in the world. The Brazilian policy is also oriented towards investors, with available legal help and a formalized network of investors seeking to help up-and-coming boosters of the economy.

Moving to Brazil from the US guarantees a change in lifestyle

Enough of economics, that dreary science, you say. And you’re completely right. Brazil so much more than a moneymaker. So, what’s the common knowledge about Brazil? Here it is:

• Brazil is the only country in Latin America where the official language is Portuguese (instead of Spanish, so you won’t be called “gringo” in Brazil);
• It has the statue of Christ the Redeemer. It’s one of most famous landmarks of South America in general;
• The 2016 Olympics held place in Rio – it was a fantastic event;
• And, last but not least – Brazil is diverse. Linguistically, ethnically, racially, socially. You name it.

All of this contributes to changes in lifestyle so vastly different from what you’re used to. This change, which occurs when you’re done moving to Brazil from the US, is a culture shock that will hit you in the face like a sledgehammer. The question is, how do you deal with it, other than finding the right residential movers Brazil to get you there?

It will take some time to get used to Brazil – especially socially

As we’ve mentioned, you’re in for a cultural shock and enrichment. Brazilians, on average, and very social. Things like friendly hugs and kisses – especially from and among women – are quite common, while men prefer long handshakes and pats on the back. If you’re a fan of personal space, you’ll find out that Brazilians will win you over with their positive attitude. This is a thing you’ll just have to get used to. Especially considering that, well, that’s just how Brazilians do things. They like doing everything face-to-face, using direct communication.

Making important schedules over the phone will not be of much use. Brazilians are very reluctant to do anything important over the phone. This sociality extends well beyond their attitude towards strangers. Some nations see strangers with distrust. Luckily, you can forget that in Brazil. They will invite you for a meal or a drink, or a night out on the town.

If you’re an introvert, it might take some time getting used to. If you’re extrovert with a flare for a rich social life, welcome to paradise! They’re liberal with many things – clothing, for instance, so don’t be afraid to dress as colorful and as freely as you like. Be sure to get in shape – don’t get me wrong, not everyone is a football player or supermodel, but, you know, you’ll feel better.

Tolerance extends to religion too

For Hispanics, religion is pretty important. They may be socially liberal, but their faith in God is pretty fixed. This doesn’t mean the men are crusaders and the women are nuns – and no, the Inquisition isn’t coming for you if you’re of other religious tradition or atheist. This simply means that it’s a part of their lifestyle. They like parties, being liberal and enjoying life – and, wouldn’t you know it, their local church is a-OK with it.

For example, generosity is a part of their lifestyle and it will be expected from you. They see themselves as generous hosts, and, by all accounts, that’s what they are. However, they expect you to reciprocate. When coming over for a dinner, you’ll be expected to buy a gift – no, it doesn’t have to be expensive jewelry. A bouquet of flowers will do, or chocolate.

Be sure to visit the Amazon rainforest

If incredibly diverse wildlife and indigenous peoples pique your interests, you’ll feel at home in the Amazon rainforest. It contains over 350 indigenous tribes, each with a culture of its own. As we’ve said, Brazil is continentally huge. This means that you’ll get to see things that you’ve never thought of seeing before. It’s quite a sight. Taking a boat up and down the Amazon river will be rewarding. And, contrary to popular belief, you won’t end up as crocodile food. So, let’s give a brief introduction to Amazonian wildlife, featuring some of the most dangerous and exciting animals known to man:

• Bullet ant – the single most painful insect bite belongs to this guy. His bite stings, as the name says, as a bullet, being 30 times as painful as a bee sting;
• Brazilian wandering spider – this “little” (it boasts a 15cm leg width) guy doesn’t build webs but wanders the ground. Its scientific family name is “phoneutria”, which means “murderer” in Greek;
• Red-bellied piranhas – no, they don’t attack humans, contrary to popular belief. Unless you’re swimming straight into a school of these guys during a starvation period, you’ll be fine. But they’re scary nonetheless;
• Jaguars – well, we’re moving to the big guys now. Jaguar is an extremely solitary animal. If you get a photo or a recording of one outside the zoo, you’ll get a lot of likes on Facebook. However, it would be unwise to approach them. Their teeth can open a skull, they’re ridiculously fast and weigh up to 135kg.

Get used to talking about football

In Brazil, football is everything and everywhere. As you probably well know, even if you don’t watch football that often, a large number of Champion’s League players come from the South American Giant. Moving to Brazil from the USA means that you won’t be using the word “soccer” anymore, as you will just get blank stares and an occasional correction. So get ready to know who the main players are, how many FIFA World Cups has Brazil won (hint: it’s five) and when did they occur (1958; 1962; 1970; 1994 and 2002).

And for the record, just don’t mention that staggering defeat against Germany in 2014. They’re still bitter about it, and, seeing Brazil is the land of football, who can blame them? Also, remember: Pelé is a way better player than Diego Maradona. Just say it, even if you don’t believe it yourself. Moving to Brazil from the USA means that you have to learn about football, even if you’re not the athletic type. Of course, you don’t have to pray to Pele’s picture on a wall every morning, but, you get the idea.

Relax and enjoy your new home

This is some simple honest-to-God advice. Brazilian people are relaxed. They’re always late (it’s almost customary and you’ll be seen as a stuck-up, hyper-punctual stranger). It’s not a big deal if you’re 15-20 minutes late, even if it’s a business meeting. If you want a super-rich social life, moving to Brazil from the USA is the very first thing you should do. So, weigh in your chances and opportunities, pack your stuff and get ready to start moving to Brazil from the US.