Social Benefits for Foreigners in Brazil: How does it work?

Brazil is known for its hospitality and warmth, characteristics that are also reflected in the way the country treats foreign residents. One question often asked by those who decide to live in Brazil is about the social benefits to which they may be entitled. 

Legislation and Rights of Foreigners in Brazil

Brazil's Federal Constitution and the Migration Law (Law No. 13.445/2017) are the main legal instruments that regulate the rights of foreigners in the country. The Migration Law establishes that immigrants have rights and duties equivalent to those of Brazilians, respecting the conditions established in international treaties and national legislation.

Principle of Equality

The principle of equality, enshrined in the Constitution, ensures that all residents in Brazil, regardless of their nationality, have access to fundamental rights such as health, education and social assistance. This means that, in theory, foreigners can access the same social benefits as Brazilian citizens.

Types of Social Benefits Available

Social benefits in Brazil are diverse and cover various areas, such as health, education, social assistance and social security. Below, we discuss the main benefits that foreigners can access in Brazil.

Health

The Unified Health System (SUS) is universal and free, providing medical and hospital care for all residents in Brazil, including foreigners. You don't have to be a Brazilian citizen to use SUS services, you just have to live in the country.

To access the SUS, foreigners need to register at a Basic Health Unit (UBS) and obtain the National Health Card (CNS), popularly known as the "SUS Card". This registration is free and only requires basic documents, such as a valid passport or identification document and proof of residence.

Education

Brazil's public education system is open to all residents, without discrimination as to nationality. Foreigners can enroll their children in public schools and also have access to public universities, as long as they meet the academic requirements.

Primary and Secondary Education

To enroll a child in a public school, parents or guardians must present identification documents, proof of residence and, if possible, school transcripts from their country of origin. Brazilian public schools are free and enrollment is compulsory for children and adolescents aged 4 to 17.

Higher Education

Access to public higher education in Brazil is through entrance exams or the National High School Exam (ENEM). Foreigners who have completed high school can take part in these exams and compete for places at public universities, where education is free.

Social Assistance

Foreigners living in Brazil can benefit from social assistance programs such as Bolsa Família and the Continuous Cash Benefit (BPC). These programs aim to support low-income families and individuals in vulnerable situations.

Bolsa Família

Bolsa Família is a cash transfer program aimed at families living in poverty and extreme poverty. Foreigners with legal residence in Brazil can register with the Single Registry for Social Programs (CadÚnico) and, if they meet the income criteria, they can receive Bolsa Família benefits.

Continuous Cash Benefit (BPC)

The BPC is a welfare benefit worth one minimum monthly wage, intended for elderly people aged 65 or over and people with disabilities of any age who can prove they have no means of supporting themselves. Foreigners living in Brazil are entitled to the BPC, provided they meet the requirements of legal residence and income.

Social Security

Social Security in Brazil offers a range of benefits for workers, including retirement, sickness benefit, maternity pay and death pension. Foreigners who work formally in Brazil and contribute to the National Social Security Institute (INSS) are entitled to these benefits.

Retirement

Foreigners who have contributed to the INSS can apply for retirement by age or contribution time, just like Brazilian workers. The requirements include minimum age and minimum contribution time, varying according to the type of retirement.

Sick Pay and Maternity Pay

These benefits are granted to workers who need to take time off work due to illness or maternity. Foreigners who are formally employed and INSS taxpayers are entitled to these benefits, following the same rules that apply to Brazilians.

Requirements and procedures

In order to have access to social benefits in Brazil, foreigners must fulfill some basic requirements, which include:

• Legal Residence: It is essential to have a valid visa or permanent resident status.
• Documentation: Present identification documents, such as a passport or National Register of Foreigners (RNE).
• Proof of Residence: A document certifying residence in Brazil, such as utility bills or a rental agreement.
• Registration in the corresponding systems: For specific benefits, such as Bolsa Família, it is necessary to be registered with CadÚnico.

Challenges and considerations

Although Brazilian legislation guarantees rights to foreigners, in practice, access to social benefits can face some challenges. Bureaucracy, lack of information and prejudice are common obstacles. It is important that foreigners are well informed about their rights and seek support from non-governmental organizations and public bodies to ensure access to benefits.

A range of benefits

Brazil offers a range of social benefits that can be accessed by foreign residents, promoting the integration and well-being of everyone living in the country. Despite the challenges, Brazilian legislation is clear about equal rights for citizens and foreigners, and knowing these rights is essential for everyone to be able to take advantage of the services available.

For more information and assistance, foreigners can go to the Public Defender's Office, the Ministry of Citizenship and other institutions that offer support and guidance on the rights and benefits available.

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June 5th, 2024