56tbourne
American looking for information about Brazil
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64
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About me
American
Registration: 26 June 2022
Moved to Brazil this year. Here's what I've learnt so far by Gabriel Otero
10 Things I Learned After Moving to BrazilAfter living eight years in Argentina, I finally made the move to Brazil. I had already spent long periods here before, plus some time in Spain, Mexico and a few other countries. But in 2025 we made the ...
Wonderful post. Retired to Curitiba recently from the US. Just bought an apartment and in the process of moving in and all that entails. Agreeing with all your points. Also have my Wise card but didn鈥檛 know I could link it with our bank ... Read More
Social Security Form SSA-7162 by nicholsharvey
Has social security recipient ever had to mail form SSA-7162 to the FBU.LISBON? How long did it take to Mail from Rio De Janeiro Brazil to Lisbon Portugal via correio service. It's been 10 days since I mailed it with tracking included and it has not ...
@abthreeGood to know馃憤 Read More
Moving to Curitiba from U.S. A. deposit crazy by Lutrick7
We are having a difficult time finding a flat that doesn鈥檛 want a years deposit . Is this just the way it鈥檚 done?
@Peter ItamaracaThanks. Seems we got the whole thing wrong. Still making progress, learned patience馃憤. If all goes well will be there this Sunday. Have a 鈥渇ace to face鈥� should smooth things out. Read More
Moving to Curitiba from U.S. A. deposit crazy by Lutrick7
We are having a difficult time finding a flat that doesn鈥檛 want a years deposit . Is this just the way it鈥檚 done?
My wife has an Itau account and have worked over 3 weeks simply trying to transfer money there to buy an apartment. It has been pretty frustrating. Working with the "cambio." Hopefully since she is a citizen and the fact I will be added to the ... Read More
Has anyone thought about Brazil as a medical destination by NewBrazil
I been working with a local lawyer. We been discussing how cheap Dental, Eye Glass and exams, Hearing Aids cost and just general care. Also certain cities are very supportive of outdoor activities for those who like to run or bike. For example there ...
Will be checking out more when we get down there. Unimed seems like the big player. Also have to read the fine print. Regardless we anticipate it to be reasonable . I also believe there be a 鈥渃ap鈥� on some plans if retired. Read More
Has anyone thought about Brazil as a medical destination by NewBrazil
I been working with a local lawyer. We been discussing how cheap Dental, Eye Glass and exams, Hearing Aids cost and just general care. Also certain cities are very supportive of outdoor activities for those who like to run or bike. For example there ...
@Will Hewitt Just checked my rates in Brazil and for my wife and I we are paying about $700 for a medium plan.Does this beat that? Read More
Has anyone thought about Brazil as a medical destination by NewBrazil
I been working with a local lawyer. We been discussing how cheap Dental, Eye Glass and exams, Hearing Aids cost and just general care. Also certain cities are very supportive of outdoor activities for those who like to run or bike. For example there ...
Heard the same thing here. Curious on what our medical plan will cost, but am sure it鈥檚 reasonable. Bought all our Apple electronic toys already in prep for our move in August. Set with eyewear as well. Read More
Health Insurance by kevinmiller1957
I know this isn't a new topic, but when I search the the forum for health insurance I am not getting any links to prior threads.I am about to choose and purchase a plan for myself, my wife, and two dependent children. It seems like Unimed is the ...
Having had 2 hips done I know what you mean. Being a PT though, would rather have a hip then a knee. BTW, headed your way in about 4 months! Doing all the paperwork shuffle and making sure we are ready to ship things duty free. The fact that we have ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2024 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@leleflowahwill be joining you in about 7 months!Welcome to this blog馃憤 Read More
Visa Extension
Just did some business with a Brazilian "Cartorio" place in Seattle and was told that the visa regulations for Brazil have extended to April of 2025!! Only needing passport to enter.Yippee!!! Just in time for our move. One less regulation to worry ... Read More
My Year in Brazil - A Bargain Bin Memoir by Brian K2
[b]My year in Brazil: the good, the bad and the ugly (and why I can鈥檛 wait to go back!)[/b] I鈥檝e been meaning to do this for a while. Thing is, every time I decided to put pen to paper it never felt like the right time. It鈥檚 as if ...
Good reading...thanks for sharing! Read More
health insurance nomad visa by monarchbeach
Hello, I'm an American applying for nomad visa and one of the requirements is some form of international health insurance.Any recommendations for insurance companies that offer this plan?Obrigado,Joe
Along similar lines, I work at a hospital in the US and plan on working New years 2025 which will give me 30 more days of health insurance even though I am retiring. This will buy me time for me to move and get insurance in Brazil. International ... Read More
Bringing my own e-trike from the USA to Brazil by Roger Fonseca Santos
I'm moving from the USA to Brazil. I intend to bring my road bike and my wife's e-trike. The moving company says 'no way', and they won even accept as items eligible to put in their containers. People in other forums such as Quora, say they didn't ...
In a related subject...We plan on bringing 3 bikes early next year. 2 e-bikes and a regular. Are there any restrictions on batteries when shipping? Good to know that they are a bit expensive and worth bringing. Read More
Let's talk about medication cost comparisons by mberigan
I don't know if there is an existing forum anyplace around but a family member has shown me some pretty outrageous cost differences on a standard prescribed medication that many retired people on fixed incomes pay.A cost comparison on (NAME BRAND is ...
Very helpful!....Now I wonder about Ozempic. Not for weight, but Diabetes. Read More
Let's talk about medication cost comparisons by mberigan
I don't know if there is an existing forum anyplace around but a family member has shown me some pretty outrageous cost differences on a standard prescribed medication that many retired people on fixed incomes pay.A cost comparison on (NAME BRAND is ...
@mberiganI started to laugh when I was told the amount/month for my oral medications in Brazil. A fraction of the cost in the US.Even the injectables like Ozempic or Humira although not covered by insurance normally in Brazil are reasonable when ... Read More
U.S. Social Security Form 7162 by alan279
Bom dia. Does Form 7162 have to be mailed to Pennsylvania, or is there a way to file it online?
I am over a year out from moving to Brazil. I plan on starting SS next Oct. Direct deposit to my bank in the US. Until the dust settles and before I do the Libon thing and have my SS deposited my bank in Brazil, I plan on pushing the SS money down ... Read More
Which country is more dangerous - the USA or Brazil? by Peter Itamaraca
Well, according to the new Global Peace Index produced by the Institute for Economica and Peace, in 129th place there is Haiti, 130th South Africa, 131st is the USA and 132nd is Brazil... Mexico is 136th, Turkey 147th, Who would have thought that, ...
@Peter ItamaracaWhen surveys are done, ask 2 questions. 1. Who is paying for it. 2. What and how are the questions asked. I believe you can find crime anywhere if you look in the right places. That being said, random crazy crime and mass shootings ... Read More
How long does it take to be issued an eVisa ? by 56tbourne
Have sent emails to the Brazilian Consulate and they are responding that they were not issuing visitor visas yet. I read that the reciprocity doesn't exist聽as of Oct 1st 2023 and will need to have a visitor visa, but....you can do it online. ...
@abthree It would be SF Read More
How long does it take to be issued an eVisa ?
Have sent emails to the Brazilian Consulate and they are responding that they were not issuing visitor visas yet. I read that the reciprocity doesn't exist聽as of Oct 1st 2023 and will need to have a visitor visa, but....you can do it online. ... Read More
International Santander transfers? by antonioggriffin
Has anybody tried to transfer from one Santander to another abroad?
@dalezuk With that being said, how does one pay for things prior to getting a bank account. Apartment, food, car etc? Plan on using Wise, but still need bank account. Any help is appreciated Read More
Retirement Visa for Brazil by abthree
The Brazilian Government has approved a replacement for the old Permanent Visa for Retirees, that was eliminated for new applicants as part of the 2017 Immigration Reform. As was the case with the old Permanent Visa (VIPER) for family reunion, the ...
@Viajanete Admire your persistence and patience:) Read More
Wise, Social Security and investments by 56tbourne
Wanted to get a few comments on an updated subject. Seems Wise is a good way to go on transferring money to Brazil. Secondly, when the time comes we plan on depositing our SS checks directly to our account in the US and then transfer to Brazil. ...
Thanks! I had heard of that Read More
Wise, Social Security and investments
Wanted to get a few comments on an updated subject. Seems Wise is a good way to go on transferring money to Brazil. Secondly, when the time comes we plan on depositing our SS checks directly to our account in the US and then transfer to Brazil. ... Read More
Where is the best place to live/invest/stay in Brazil? by Peter Itamaraca
Opinions/thoughts/idea/suggestions?
@sprealestatebroker Agreeing to everthing you said. It's a "good jumping off point" There is no perfect spot, but it works for us. Have family there and have been there many times. Nice intl airport as well. I call it "tube town" due to the bus ... Read More
Where is the best place to live/invest/stay in Brazil? by Peter Itamaraca
Opinions/thoughts/idea/suggestions?
I am a Curitiba kinda guy. Good size city of 2 million. Well educated populace. Many startups are there. Cooler weather 2/2 to higher elevation. Good culture. Good airport and less crime then SP or Rio. Foodie type city. These are a few reasons I ... Read More
How easy is it to move to Brazil ? by ttocS001
Hi Everyone :)I鈥檓 enquiring how easy it is to move to Brazil and get a residence instead of a visa. I won鈥檛 be working there as I have an online business. I鈥檝e been looking into moving to Holland but there鈥檚 so many ...
@Alstromeria55 Where did you live in Oregon Planning on moving to Curitiba in 2025! Read More
Farewell to Texanbrazil, Brazil Advisor by abthree
It is my deep sorrow to inform you that our colleague and friend here on the site, and my good friend in Real Life, Texanbrazil, passed away this morning after a long illness.聽Tex joined Expat in February of 2018, and enjoyed helping ...
The little time I have spent on hereI was very appreciative of Texanbrazil's help and communication. His advice was simple and honest. I am sad to hear to hear of his passing. Read More
Opening first bank account - Any recommendations? by GuestPoster9310
I am doing a bit of research about bank accounts in Brasil. My idea is to use it wherever my UK card isn't accepted and also for PIX transfers. Not planning to hold much money in that account. I will make small transfers from the UK using Western ...
@roddiesho good to know. I have heard the "personal" aspect of banking is very important. "Schmoozing" helps Read More
BBQ Pellets for Traeger Grill by 56tbourne
I know this is an obscure question but here goes! Trying to figure out if wood pellets (for cooking not heating) can be purchased in Brazil. Not imported. WAY too expensive.Something comparable to apple, mesquite, hickory or cherry. I realize that ...
Funny thing is, many of my Brazilian relatives have visited through the years and absolutely love my BBQ. Maybe you are right, but once you have a good slow cooked BBQ without all the fuss and cleanup, it's hard to give up. Will still search. If ... Read More
BBQ Pellets for Traeger Grill
I know this is an obscure question but here goes! Trying to figure out if wood pellets (for cooking not heating) can be purchased in Brazil. Not imported. WAY too expensive.Something comparable to apple, mesquite, hickory or cherry. I realize that ... Read More
New regulations to active SIM cards, CPF now required. by rraypo
Although I have a CPF and CRNM, I was just made aware of changes to government regulations as to activating cell phone SIM cards. It seems that after running a pilot program, Brazil is now once again requiring users to have a CPF to activate SIM ...
These are the type of situations that make Brazil challenging. With persistence, one prevails. Luckily for me, persistence is my forte. Never underestimate it! Read More
Your best culinary memory in Brazil by Mickael
Hello everyone, As you know, every country has its own flavours and tasting the local cuisine is a great way to discover the culture of a destination. Whether it's a small typical restaurant to taste local dishes, a traditional meal in a local's ...
Ohhhhh and moqueca! Read More
Your best culinary memory in Brazil by Mickael
Hello everyone, As you know, every country has its own flavours and tasting the local cuisine is a great way to discover the culture of a destination. Whether it's a small typical restaurant to taste local dishes, a traditional meal in a local's ...
@Mickael Gosh, where to start....The ones that stick out to me are feijoada and pao de quiejo. Pecanha for sure. Cinqging (sp) and brigadado to name a few Read More
General Political Climate in Brazil by 56tbourne
Now that the elections are over, was wondering what the general political tone in Brazil is now that Lula was elected. Will it have an effect on expats or laws? I know that Brazil is divided like it is in the US. It has always been a very ...
Cost of living is the key. Not sure how people are going to retire comfortably here. Read More
General Political Climate in Brazil by 56tbourne
Now that the elections are over, was wondering what the general political tone in Brazil is now that Lula was elected. Will it have an effect on expats or laws? I know that Brazil is divided like it is in the US. It has always been a very ...
Apartment in Curitiba. Have relatives there already. Not too hot/ cold. Perfect for me. Also not as much crime Read More
General Political Climate in Brazil by 56tbourne
Now that the elections are over, was wondering what the general political tone in Brazil is now that Lula was elected. Will it have an effect on expats or laws? I know that Brazil is divided like it is in the US. It has always been a very ...
@mberigan Really like Santa Catarina. I have relatives in Joinville. Nephew in Floripa. Yea Curitiba is at 1000m.Really like the vibe. Are you in SC thenLooking to buy an apartment there.Apostle Islands are nice too up North. Things have really ... Read More
General Political Climate in Brazil by 56tbourne
Now that the elections are over, was wondering what the general political tone in Brazil is now that Lula was elected. Will it have an effect on expats or laws? I know that Brazil is divided like it is in the US. It has always been a very ...
What part of Wisconsin? Read More
General Political Climate in Brazil
Now that the elections are over, was wondering what the general political tone in Brazil is now that Lula was elected. Will it have an effect on expats or laws? I know that Brazil is divided like it is in the US. It has always been a very ... Read More
Moving to Santa Catarina state by KenAquarius
Hi, I am an American married to a Brazilian. I am looking at taking an early retirement and would like any information about nice cities and towns in Santa Catarina. It would be great to hear from anyone living there. My wife is from Rio but no ...
@KenAquarius My first choice would be Florianopolis. Relatively safe with nice beaches. Read More
Limitations on money transfers by 56tbourne
While reading though these posts have gained valuable information. Have also read how important it is to have a "personal" relationship with your Brazilian bank. Have also read that there is a limitation of $2000 /transaction when sending money from ...
Thanks...Although there are a few hoops, this can be done. In the meantime, having fun checking out AirBNB rates in Fortaleza which seem extremely reasonable. Will have 2 years to filter stuff, but we feel that under our circumstances the decision ... Read More
Limitations on money transfers by 56tbourne
While reading though these posts have gained valuable information. Have also read how important it is to have a "personal" relationship with your Brazilian bank. Have also read that there is a limitation of $2000 /transaction when sending money from ...
@John Fenton聽Thanks! Read More
Limitations on money transfers by 56tbourne
While reading though these posts have gained valuable information. Have also read how important it is to have a "personal" relationship with your Brazilian bank. Have also read that there is a limitation of $2000 /transaction when sending money from ...
@abthree聽Thanks. Didn't make sense to me either. Read More
Limitations on money transfers by 56tbourne
While reading though these posts have gained valuable information. Have also read how important it is to have a "personal" relationship with your Brazilian bank. Have also read that there is a limitation of $2000 /transaction when sending money from ...
@rraypo聽Good to hear! Read More
Limitations on money transfers
While reading though these posts have gained valuable information. Have also read how important it is to have a "personal" relationship with your Brazilian bank. Have also read that there is a limitation of $2000 /transaction when sending money from ... Read More
Taxes on funds that are transferred for purchasing property by 56tbourne
Reading a few different things. Since there is an array of transferring funds, 1 question remains. If transferring $ from a bank in the US to to private seller/bank in Brazil, besides the usual small fees for the transaction, would one expect taxes ...
Thanks! As always, have another set of eyes or possibly an attorney there to look at it before making a big purchase. Read More
Taxes on funds that are transferred for purchasing property
Reading a few different things. Since there is an array of transferring funds, 1 question remains. If transferring $ from a bank in the US to to private seller/bank in Brazil, besides the usual small fees for the transaction, would one expect taxes ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Finding this forum invaluable. Read More
Retirement Visa for Brazil by abthree
The Brazilian Government has approved a replacement for the old Permanent Visa for Retirees, that was eliminated for new applicants as part of the 2017 Immigration Reform. As was the case with the old Permanent Visa (VIPER) for family reunion, the ...
So I would still apply for a visa regardless? Read More
Retirement Visa for Brazil by abthree
The Brazilian Government has approved a replacement for the old Permanent Visa for Retirees, that was eliminated for new applicants as part of the 2017 Immigration Reform. As was the case with the old Permanent Visa (VIPER) for family reunion, the ...
What if you are married to a Brazilian with dual citizenship? Does that make a聽difference? Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Seriously thinking about moving to Curitiba. Been there several times. Will retire in about 2 years. Currently in Portland Oregon Read More