By Juliana Mitico Valente Riccardi
Lawyer & Global Mobility Expert
Partner at Mitico Advogados and BR-Visa
Brazil’s dynamic economy continues to attract multinational corporations seeking to capitalize on its vast market, skilled workforce, and strategic position in Latin America. As of 2023, Brazil hosts over 19.2 million active companies, with nearly 6 million in São Paulo alone. Multinational enterprises such as JBS S.A., the world’s largest meat processing company, and Eurofarma, a leading pharmaceutical firm, have long benefited from Brazil’s expanding economic landscape. More recently, Chinese companies have deepened their cooperation with Brazil, announcing substantial investments in sectors such as energy and infrastructure (Valor International, 2024). Additionally, Brazil remains an attractive destination for foreign direct investment, bolstered by policies that facilitate business operations and workforce mobility (U.S. Department of State, 2024).
In 2024, Brazil granted a total of 20,090 residency authorizations under four primary work permit categories:
Breakdown of Work Permit Categories
RN 02 – Work Permit for Employment in a Brazilian Company Designed for foreign professionals entering into formal labor agreements with Brazilian entities, this permit ensures integration into the local workforce under Brazilian labor laws.
RN 03 – Work Permit for Technical Assistance Services This category applies to professionals offering specialized technical services without a formal employment relationship with a Brazilian company. It is particularly relevant for short-term projects requiring specific expertise.
RN 04 – Work Permit for Technology Transfer Facilitates the entry of professionals engaged in technology transfer initiatives, promoting the exchange of specialized knowledge and skills to strengthen local capabilities.
RN 11 – Work Permit for Executive Positions Reserved for executives and high-level managers assuming leadership roles within Brazilian-based companies, this permit highlights the strategic importance of experienced leadership in business growth and innovation.
The distribution of these permits in 2024 reflects Brazil’s commitment to attracting technical expertise and leadership talent. By facilitating the entry of skilled professionals across various industries, the country reinforces its role as a hub for multinational business operations in Latin America, making it a prime destination for investors looking to expand in the region (Capital Invest Group, 2024).