Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

What do I need to know about living in Rio de Janeiro?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Rio de Janeiro, they said:

"Before retiring in Rio de Janeiro, expats should research the cost of living and the availability of healthcare services. It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local laws and regulations, as well as the language and culture. Additionally, expats should consider the safety of the area and the availability of transportation. Finally, it is important to research the visa requirements for long-term stays in Brazil," explained one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"Great place to live; perfect climate; friendly people. Come with a job in view and leave your valuables in your home country. You are going to have the time of your life," said one expat in Rio de Janeiro.

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What do I need to know before moving to Rio de Janeiro?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Rio de Janeiro, they said:

"Before moving to Rio de Janeiro, expats should research the cost of living and the availability of housing. It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. Expats should also be aware of the crime rate in the city and take necessary precautions to stay safe. Additionally, expats should research the visa requirements for Brazil and obtain the necessary documents before their move. Lastly, expats should make sure to have access to quality healthcare and medical insurance," said one expat who made the move to Rio de Janeiro.

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How do I find a place to live in Rio de Janeiro?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Rio de Janeiro is to use online rental websites such as Airbnb, VivaReal, and ZAP Imóveis. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Rio de Janeiro by location, price, and amenities. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in the area. They can provide you with more information about the neighborhoods and help you find the perfect place to live," remarked one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Rio de Janeiro?

"Expat homes and apartments in Rio de Janeiro tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring balconies and terraces that offer stunning views of the city. Most apartments come with air conditioning, cable TV, and internet access, and many have access to a shared pool or gym. Expats can also find furnished apartments with all the necessary amenities, such as kitchen appliances, furniture, and linens. Many expats choose to live in the city's upscale neighborhoods, such as Ipanema and Leblon, which offer easy access to the beach, restaurants, and nightlife," said one expat in Rio de Janeiro.

"I live in an apartment, no I don't think its typical most live in hostels or share with other students," said one expat who made the move to Rio de Janeiro.

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What is the average cost of housing in Rio de Janeiro?

If you are thinking about moving to Rio de Janeiro, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Rio de Janeiro is generally quite high, with prices ranging from moderately expensive to very expensive depending on the area and type of housing. Renting an apartment in the city center can be quite costly, while renting in the suburbs may be more affordable," remarked one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"Housing costs are expensive, I don't know much about it though, but cheaper than London," wrote one member in Rio de Janeiro.

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How do I meet people in Rio de Janeiro?

When we asked people living in Rio de Janeiro about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Rio de Janeiro often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural activities. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as attending meetups and networking events. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and talking to locals in cafes, bars, and other public spaces," wrote one member in Rio de Janeiro.

"International Newcomers, wonderful start if you don't know the language at all. Most nationalities have their own clubs and organizations; huge expat community. Excellent schools. Very busy social diary if that's what you want, otherwise enjoy the best part of Brazil: the Brazilians," remarked one expat who made the move to Rio de Janeiro.

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What should I bring when moving to Rio de Janeiro?

People living in Rio de Janeiro were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"When moving to Rio de Janeiro, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring comfortable, lightweight clothing that is suitable for the hot and humid weather. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also essential for protecting yourself from the sun. Additionally, it is important to bring items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as a phrasebook or dictionary to help you learn Portuguese. Finally, don't forget to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport and visa," commented one expat who made the move to Rio de Janeiro.

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Where should I setup a bank account in Rio de Janeiro?

We asked expats in Rio de Janeiro what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Before retiring in Rio de Janeiro, expats should research the cost of living and the availability of healthcare services. It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local laws and regulations, as well as the language and culture. Additionally, expats should consider the safety of the area and the availability of transportation. Finally, it is important to research the visa requirements for long-term stays in Brazil," remarked one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

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Will I be able to find a job in Rio de Janeiro?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Rio de Janeiro, they reponded:

"Foreigners in Rio de Janeiro often work in the hospitality industry, such as in hotels, restaurants, and bars. They may also find employment in the tourism industry, working as tour guides or in other related roles. Other popular jobs for foreigners include teaching English, working in IT, and working in the finance sector," said one expat who made the move to Rio de Janeiro.

"This is a problem in Rio. Most banks/finance and insurance companies have now moved to Sao Paulo. Left are oil industry (very large), some shipping, tourism. Jobs mostly to be found through personal contacts. Life in Rio is not very cheap, as most foreigners tend to believe," explained one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

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What is life like in Rio de Janeiro?

When we asked people living in Rio de Janeiro what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Rio de Janeiro is generally quite enjoyable. The city is known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and lively nightlife. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants to work from, as well as plenty of activities to enjoy in their free time. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in Brazil, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. Additionally, the city is home to a large expat community, making it easy to meet new people and make friends," remarked one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"Peoples lives, no joke, revolve around the beach and sports. You will meet many people by just going to the beach or walking on the beach front and around the Lagoa (lagoon). Brazilians are very easy going; they talk to you all the time and everywhere. Some knowledge of the language is essential. Nobody, outside the tourist industry, speaks any English or any other language for that matter, but Portuguese," wrote one member in Rio de Janeiro.

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What do expats in Rio de Janeiro appreciate most about the local culture?

"I appreciate the more laid back approach to things. I also enjoy the fact our lifestyles are healthier here compared to London. The geography of Brazil is amazing. I look out of my window and I can see a massive green mountain and the weather is nearly always good (even now its winter). There is plenty to see and do in Rio if your short on money which is cool. Lapa is great for live samba and lively bars. Its a really colorful and interesting place. The beach is so easy to get to and its so nice to go and relax there whenever you feel like. I love being tanned instead of pasty white! I know there is allot to experience here in the future," explained one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"I love how everything is slightly or amazingly different to what I am used to. There's less rules and regulations (or they are routinely flouted) and therefore people seem freer. The sing-song nature of Portuguese is pretty good, even if it is difficult to pronounce! My language seems monotone in comparison," said one expat in Rio de Janeiro.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"It was so true when I read in other posts that people are suspicious, closed and indifferent to new people. Very cliquey, but luckily I have managed to avoid most of that by having made friends here before I came. And that led to making new friends. Even so, 'friends' can be irritatingly flaky when it comes to arriving at a set time, or even keeping commitments. Lacking conversational Portuguese is a real problem, but the friends I have all speak English so it's generally a 70% Portuguese/30% English mix in a social setting with their other friends," remarked one expat who made the move to Rio de Janeiro.

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Is there a lot of crime in Rio de Janeiro?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Rio de Janeiro has a reputation for high levels of crime, particularly in certain areas of the city. Violent crime, such as robbery and assault, is a major problem in the city, and tourists are advised to take extra precautions when visiting. Drug-related crime is also a major issue in Rio de Janeiro, with gangs and organized crime groups operating in some areas. In addition, there is a high rate of property crime, such as burglary and car theft," said one expat in Rio de Janeiro.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Rio de Janeiro accepting of differences?

"Yes, there is a lot of diversity in Rio de Janeiro. The city is home to people from a variety of backgrounds, including African, European, and Indigenous. People in Rio de Janeiro are generally accepting of differences and celebrate the city's diversity. There are many cultural events and festivals that celebrate the city's unique mix of cultures," wrote a member in Rio de Janeiro.

"Rich and poor live side by side. Diversity is part of every day life. Brazilians are very tolerant especially in religion, race and culture.The main problem of Rio is the violence. One has to take, just like the Brazilians do, steps to protect one self," commented one expat who made the move to Rio de Janeiro.

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What are the schools in Rio de Janeiro like?

"If you are coming to Brazil for a 2-year stint and then head back to the US, this school may not make sense for you. If you are a foreigner living or coming to live in Brazil, consider this school. Apart from everything that I have said above, I can say that we love it and are completely satisfied with our little girl's experience. She actually asks to put on her uniform and go to school every day. There is a level of care, love and concern at this school that is unique," remarked one expat living in Rio de Janeiro with children attending Escola Bloom.

"I know this is a good school and I know this is a good place where my child will learn many important things and meet many important people. My child is pay for by the company of my husband and I don't know. But I know that also is the British School in Rio de Janeiro that is very cheaper," said one expat in Rio de Janeiro with children at American School of Rio de Janeiro.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Rio de Janeiro?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Rio de Janeiro responded:

"Expats and digital nomads generally like the following aspects of living in Rio de Janeiro: 1. Beautiful scenery: Rio de Janeiro is known for its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer statue, and the famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. 2. Vibrant culture: Rio offers a rich cultural experience, with its lively music scene, colorful festivals, and friendly locals. 3. Outdoor activities: The city provides numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hiking, surfing, and beach volleyball. 4. Affordable cost of living: Compared to other major cities, Rio de Janeiro offers a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. 5. Diverse food scene: Rio boasts a wide variety of delicious local and international cuisine, including Brazilian barbecue, fresh seafood, and exotic fruits. However, there are also some aspects that expats and digital nomads may dislike about living in Rio de Janeiro: 1. Safety concerns: Rio has a high crime rate, and safety can be a significant concern for expats and digital nomads, especially in certain neighborhoods. 2. Traffic and public transportation: The city is notorious for its traffic congestion, and the public transportation system can be unreliable and overcrowded. 3. Language barrier: While English is spoken in tourist areas, it is less common in other parts of the city, which can make daily life challenging for those who do not speak Portuguese. 4. Pollution and cleanliness: Rio de Janeiro struggles with pollution, particularly in its waterways, and some areas of the city can be quite dirty. 5. Infrastructure and bureaucracy: The city's infrastructure can be lacking in some areas, and dealing with Brazilian bureaucracy can be frustrating and time-consuming for expats and digital nomads," commented one expat who moved to Rio de Janeiro.

"It is absolutely not useful for anyone to compare Brazil to the United States so I won't. I like living here and am in a very lucky situation. Although there are distinct disadvantages to living here mostly related to convenience, life here is excellent. It's a beautiful place. It's easy to travel by car or air when there is no pandemic. I love photography so it's a paradise in some ways. I'd love to build a homestead but I'm afraid the wife is a city girl so that's probably not in the cards. Maybe a weekend place where I could do a garden? On the downside, it can be uncomfortable to confront certain types of ignorance that are, for the most part, no fault of the ignorant ones. You have to understand where you are and that you have not had to live through what these folks have had to live through. They are conditioned just like anybody gets conditioned by their upbringing. They're mostly good hearted so if you want a laundry list of complaints, I'm not going to give it. If you want to find good here, they have it in spades. If you want to gritch and gripe, you'll have plenty of fodder for that as well. I keep reminding myself how extraordinary it is to have this opportunity. I would like to be able to talk with more people who like woodworking, people who are classical musicians and people who are "makers" but that's splitting hairs and I feel like that will come in time when we can talk to each other without the unreasonable fear we are under in the present moment," said one expat.

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What type of social life can someone expect in Rio de Janeiro?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Rio de Janeiro, they replied:

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in Rio de Janeiro typically have a vibrant and diverse social life. They often engage in various cultural activities, such as attending samba shows, visiting art galleries, and participating in local festivals. Many expats and digital nomads join language exchange groups to improve their Portuguese skills and make new friends. Networking events and meetups are also popular among this community, allowing them to connect with like-minded individuals and share experiences. Rio de Janeiro offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, surfing, and beach volleyball, which provide opportunities for expats and digital nomads to socialize and stay active. The city's lively nightlife scene, with its numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, also attracts many international residents looking to unwind and have fun. In addition, expats, retirees, and digital nomads often form close-knit communities, providing support and friendship to one another. They may participate in social clubs, volunteer organizations, or sports teams to further expand their social circle and integrate into the local culture. Overall, the social life of expats, retirees, and digital nomads in Rio de Janeiro is typically rich and fulfilling, offering a unique blend of local and international experiences," commented one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"I'm married so an "N/A" on the dating options would have been appropriate. On the whole, if you have a stable financial situation, social options are great. Obviously, everything social right now is abysmal but in normal times, things are great," remarked one expat living in Rio de Janeiro.

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"It is important to be friends with other people from your native country as long as they aren't jackasses. That is true for anyone you want to be friends with no matter where they're from," remarked one expat living in Rio de Janeiro.

"If you have money and can live the expat lifestyle you can have expat friends. Cost of living is high," said one expat living in Rio de Janeiro.

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What advice to expats in Rio de Janeiro have about housing?

"Rentals are 30 month minimum in most cases and require proof of income or an insurance policy to guarantee against loss if you end the rental early or don't pay," remarked one expat living in Rio de Janeiro.

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What are medical services in Rio de Janeiro like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Rio de Janeiro, they replied:

"Medical services in Rio de Janeiro, are a mix of public and private healthcare systems. The public system, known as SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), provides free healthcare services to all citizens, including emergency care, surgeries, and medications. However, the public system often faces challenges such as long waiting times, overcrowded facilities, and limited resources. On the other hand, private healthcare in Rio de Janeiro offers high-quality medical services with well-equipped facilities and highly trained professionals. Many private hospitals and clinics cater to international patients and have English-speaking staff. However, private healthcare can be expensive, and it is recommended to have health insurance to cover the costs. In general, Rio de Janeiro has a good number of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, with some of the best medical facilities in the country. However, access to quality healthcare may vary depending on one's location within the city and financial resources. It is essential for visitors to have travel health insurance and be aware of the nearest medical facilities in case of emergencies," wrote one expat living in Rio de Janeiro.

"I don't know how to characterize my health insurance plan. It is from Brazil but it is not a public plan. It is a private, Brazilian plan (Unimed Rio). And it is good. The medical care is excellent and although the plan is about what I'd pay in the States, I can get more for the money," commented one expat who moved to Rio de Janeiro.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Rio de Janeiro?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Rio de Janeiro, can be considered expensive for many residents, especially those with low incomes. The public healthcare system, known as SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), is available to all citizens and foreigners, but it often faces issues such as long waiting times, overcrowding, and limited resources. As a result, many people opt for private healthcare and health insurance, which can be costly. Private health insurance plans vary in price depending on the coverage and services offered, but they generally provide better quality care and shorter waiting times. However, these plans can be a significant financial burden for individuals and families, making healthcare and health insurance a challenging expense for many living in Rio de Janeiro," mentioned one expat inRio de Janeiro.

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Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard. PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now. Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard.

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Is the cost of living in Rio de Janeiro high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Rio de Janeiro, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Rio de Janeiro is generally considered to be moderate. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is typically around $800 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $1,200 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil typically costs around $20 USD per person," remarked one expat in Rio de Janeiro.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Rio de Janeiro?

"In order to visit or live in Rio de Janeiro, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, study, or work. To apply for a visa, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a passport-sized photograph, and any other documents required by the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate. Foreign nationals who wish to live in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, must apply for residency. To apply for residency, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, and any other documents required by the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate. In addition, applicants must provide proof of financial stability, such as a bank statement, and proof of health insurance. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residency card, which must be renewed every two years," remarked one expat in Rio de Janeiro.

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Why do people move to Rio de Janeiro?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Rio de Janeiro, they responded:

"Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant and exciting city that offers expats a unique cultural experience. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant nightlife, Rio de Janeiro is a great place to live and work. The city is also known for its friendly people, excellent healthcare system, and low cost of living. Additionally, Rio de Janeiro is a great place to learn Portuguese, as the city is home to a large number of Portuguese-speaking people. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and low cost of living, Rio de Janeiro is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," remarked one expat in Rio de Janeiro.

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