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Dear USAID Research and Innovation Fellow,
Congratulations on being chosen to participate in your research project through the USAID Research and
Innovation Fellowships Program in Brazil. Our hope is that through this experience you will build relationships with other fellows in this program, the researchers at your hosting institution, and other students in
country, and then will serve as a connection between all these new relationships and your advisers and
mentors back at your home institution.
We hope you find the work and experience you are about to embark upon to be extremely rewarding.
Although not an official representative of the government or USAID, we do expect that you will handle
yourself in a manner that is appropriate. As recipients of United States Government funding, we expect
you to use the funds as you described in your application and in the most appropriate way for achieving the
development objectives, and to be in-country for the approved amount of time. Please stay in contact with
the Fellowships team and notify us if your research scope or timeline must change.
We know you have been in contact with your host for much of this information. This packet is intended to
supplement any information you have received from them already. USAID Brazil is located in Brasilia.
USAID/Brazil would appreciate getting an email from RI Fellows informing them of your contact details in
Brazil, including mailing address, phone numbers and email address. USAID/Brazil will be of assistance when
it can. Your mission POCs is Alexandre Mancuso, [email protected]. Please be in contact with him inadvance to your arrival. The U.S. Embassy in Brazil is located in Brasília and there are consulates in Recife,
Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo.
As a Research and Innovation Fellow, you are encouraged to participate in the social networking and resource exchange website USAID’s Global Development Lab is rolling out. The Global Development Lab is
creating a website for the whole development community to share best practices, find funding opportunities, and showcase or look for products or ideas that will make development better, faster, and cheaper.
Please join the Research and Innovation Fellowships community where you can share your research with
other Fellows, as well as your host and their colleagues, learn about others’ work, and share best practices
or tools you’ve found to be helpful. To join, please go to http://www.globalinnovationexchange.com and
click on the “Join the Exchange” button where you’ll be able to get started by creating a user profile.
As a participant in the USAID Research and Innovation Fellowships Program, you will be required to submit
to both USAID and your respective university or funding organization reports detailing the course of your
work in Brazil. You will also be required to submit responses to at least two surveys conducted by the
USAID Research and Innovation Fellowships team.
Above all, we hope you find this experience rewarding and exciting!
The Research and Innovation Fellowships Team
Notes About Life In Brazil
VISAS and REGISTRATION
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS BEFORE ARRIVING IN BRAZIL
1. Grantees must keep their Terms of Award document in hand, in case it is requested by customs
officers.
2. Grantees must bring the original visa application with them to Brazil.
3. If you have been to Brazil before and have registered at the Federal Police (Polícia Federal), you
should have a proof of this registration, called “protocolo.” We recommend that you staple this
“protocolo” to your passport.
4. Married grantees should bring their original marriage certificate or a copy that has been
notarized as situations may arise where it might be necessary to provide evidence of kinship.
5. Birth certificate or a notarized copy (required by the Federal Police in some situations) for
grantee and any dependents.
RESEARCH PERMITS
Some research may require special research permits according to Brazilian law. Studies related to
indigenous and natural science projects involving field studies are considered by Brazilian authorities to
be "scientific expeditions" covered by Decree 65057 of August 20, 1969. Special authorization for such
projects must be obtained from the Conselho Nacional para o Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico CNPq in accordance with the decree. Affiliation with a Brazilian institution is required and the usual
time to process a request for authorization to conduct such projects is five to six months.
It is advisable that you seek further information about the need of submitting special authorization from
CNPq with your host institution. Oftentimes, host faculty can advise the grantee on how to navigate this
process, adapt his or her project to bypass the special authorization requirement, or benefit from an
already existing authorization.
REGISTERING WITH THE FEDERAL POLICE
In Brazil, the Federal Police is responsible for registering all foreigners who will be in the country under
a VITEM-I visa for more than 30 days.
Failure to register with the Federal Police will result in fines and/or possible expulsion from Brazil.
Payment of any fine resulting from failure to meet these requirements is entirely the grantee’s
responsibility.
All grantees and dependents under the VITEM-I must report to the nearest Federal Police office within
30 days, counting from the arrival date. Once you are registered, and up to your visa expiration date,
you are allowed multiple entries to Brazil as a Fulbright recipient.
Note: All foreigners must schedule their visit to the Federal Police for the registration. In case the
online system does not have the option to schedule an appointment within the 30-day period, you must
go to the nearest police office and not miss your deadline.
Once you have registered with the Federal Police, you will be provided with a Brazilian ID card. If you
have registered with the Federal Police during a previous visit (no matter how long ago), please see the
bottom of this section for special instructions.
*PLEASE SEE THE DOCUMENT AT THE END OF THIS PACKET FOR MORE DETAILED
INSTRUCTIONS ON VISAS AND REGISTRATION
IMMUNIZATIONS and HEALTH
The Health Unit of the American Embassy in Brasília recommends the following inoculations and
precautions for Americans traveling to Brazil:
• Yellow fever - every ten years;
• Polio shots - initial series, booster in case of epidemic;
• Typhoid - every three years;
• Tuberculin skin test - every year;
• Malaria suppressant for those traveling in non-urban areas. Cities in jungle areas are considered
rural, not urban, in nature. (Currently the only area of concern is the Amazon Basin. Risk of
contracting Chloroquine-resistant malaria is small but a risk nonetheless.); and
• Diphtheria - tetanus booster - every ten years.
Although the Brazilian government does not require any specific immunizations for adults coming to
Brazil, the grantee and accompanying family members should bring along their immunization record
(International Certificates of Vaccination) or other official statement showing which shots the
individual(s) has had. However, in the case of accompanying minors older than three months, the
Brazilian government does require evidence that the minors have been vaccinated against polio. The
record must show the date of the vaccination and the type of serum used.
Grantees sensitive to strong sun exposure should bring sunscreen. While sunscreen is available in most
urban cities, it is extremely expensive.
Grantees, or spouses of grantees, who are pregnant when coming to Brazil should bring a statement
from their physician stating their condition. If possible, pictures of the mother-to-be, showing the date
the pictures were taken, should be brought to Brazil. In cases where a child is born in Brazil, the U.S.
Embassy and its Consulates are very cautious about issuing an American passport to the newborn.
MEDICAL CARE IN BRAZIL
Most Brazilian cities have a number of health care services available ranging from modern state-of-theart facilities to poorly equipped units. It is a good idea to become familiar with well-regarded health care
providers in your community. You may contact your nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate. It is also
recommended that you ask your colleagues at your host institution for suggestions. Identify the best
nearest hospital to go to in case of an emergency. Should you want to make a routine appointment,
request references for a medical practitioner from a reliable source.
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates have compiled information on services provided to U.S. citizens and
emergency contacts in the districts in which they are located: Brasília, São Paulo, Recife and Rio de
Janeiro. You may find this information at http://brazil.usembassy.gov/service.html
CRIME and SAFETY
Crime is the principal and real threat to visitors to Brazil. The crime threat level in Brasilia, Rio de
Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Recife is critical. Armed street robberies are common in these cities. The area
in and around the hotel sector in Brasilia is extremely dangerous, especially at night. Taxis and private
vehicles should be used to move about. Additionally, individuals and organizations with ties to extremist
groups operate in the tri-border area between Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina – this includes the Iguacu
falls area. Official visitors contemplating travel to this area should contact the Embassy before doing so,
as well as Embassy Asuncion and/or Embassy Buenos Aires if they plan to cross into Paraguay and/or
Argentina.
Visitors should practice common sense preventative security techniques, just as they would in any large
city in the world. Some of the more important tips that you should follow to avoid becoming a crime
victim are:
• Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract the attention of thieves. If you need to
wear expensive jewelry or carry a camera; conceal it until you arrive at your destination.
• Be aware of the street environment and avoid contact with those who may be looking for
robbery targets. Seek a safer location. Go into a store, bank or simply cross the street.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. While this is a personal decision, statistics show
that resistance leads to injury.
• Do not answer your hotel room door until you positively confirm who is on the other side.
Look out the peephole, or call the front desk to confirm the visitor.
• Do not walk on the beaches after dark. Assaults are common.
• Avoid city buses. Many pass through high crime areas and are susceptible to robberies.
COUNTRY NOTES
American citizens living in or traveling to or throughout Brazil may experience widespread delays in air
travel nationwide due to ongoing air traffic control and other infrastructural difficulties. Both
international and domestic flights are frequently delayed for up to several hours and many flights are
canceled. Some travelers have been rerouted, causing disruptions to travel plans. American citizens are
advised to keep this in mind when making their travel plans, either official or personal; to prepare for
long delays at Brazilian airports and for the possibility of missing flight connections; and to allow for
extra time to reach and return from their destinations. We do not currently have reliable information
regarding when this situation will measurably improve.
Above all, consult with your hosts for the most applicable, up-to-date information and guidance.
Pre-departure Plan
1. Obtain a visa and research permit. Familiarize yourself with the Embassy in-country as well,
with their specific services and with the unique visa and permit requirements. Make sure to
confirm the permit requirements for the country you are going to. Find the embassy
here: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_4965.html
2. Register with State Department. Prior to arrival in country, register with the Department
of State. Registration allows the traveler to record information about the upcoming trip so that
the Department of State can assist in case of an emergency. Visit: https://step.state.gov/step/ and
choose “Create Account” to start using this service.
3. Register with your travel insurance. Informing your insurer of where you are going and for
how long you will be gone ensures the best possible care in case you should need it.
4. Obtain your vaccinations. Note any specific health concerns specific to your country.
5. It is recommended that you bring the following on your trip:
a. Have a plan for in-country communication (ensure your mobile works or buy a working
phone upon arrival.)
b. Funds in case of emergency. This could include an ATM card that works at the banks in
the destination city, a credit card if accepted at clinics and hospitals in the area, and/or
an emergency U.S. Bank Corporate Card
c. A stockpile of medications for general head and stomach ailments, and you favorite
toiletries. These may be expensive and difficult to find where you are going.
6. Make two photocopies of inside page of your passport. If you have obtained a visa prior
to departure photocopy the visa page as well. Bring one copy with you on the trip and keep it
in a safe place away from your passport.
7. Notify your bank and credit card companies when and to where you will be
traveling.
Basic In-Country Security Guidelines
•
•
•
•
•
When possible, travel with a trusted colleague.
Carry your travel insurance card at all times.
Carry a copy of this emergency plan at all times.
Avoid accepting drinks and food from strangers.
Seek security guidance from your host.
Additional resources for international security and health information:
•
Up-to-date information on security can be obtained by calling 1-888-407- 4747 toll free in the
United States. For callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line is available;
call +1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time,
Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
•
Overseas Security Advisory Council (U.S. State Department): http://www.osac.gov/
•
Centers for Disease Control Traveler’s Health: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/
•
www.state.gov The State Department’s website issues background notes periodically about
countries around the world. You can also check on conditions that may affect your safety in the
site’s international travel section.
•
Country-specific information (U.S. Department of
State): http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1072.html
•
Background Notes on Brazil (U.S. Department of
State): http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/35640.htm
•
U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Brazil: http://brazil.usembassy.gov/#
•
http://www.visitbrasil.com/index.html?__locale=en
•
http://www.easyquarto.com.br/
•
http://saopaulo.en.craigslist.org/
•
http://rio.en.craigslist.org/
•
http://salvador.en.craigslist.org/
•
http://www.gringoes.com.br/
•
American Society of Sao Paulo http://www.amsoc.com.br/ - http://www.americansocietyrio.org/
Emergency Contingency Plan
Medical Emergency:
You should register for travel insurance prior to departing. The study abroad office at your home
institution will have suggestions if you have not already signed up for a plan. Contact the hotline number
of your provider for the location of a local physician and/or hospital. If you are unable to call the hotline
for any reason, seek medical care and call when possible.
Most insurance providers will provide emergency transportation to the nearest hospital for treatment if
you are unable to be treated locally.
Non-Medical Emergency:
If you find yourself in a dangerous situation outside of your control, call the Embassy. For other, broader
concerns or questions about your Fellowship or with regards to your hosting institution, please
contact: [email protected]. Please note that this inbox is only monitored during normal U.S.
business hours (9:00am-5:00pm, Eastern Standard Time)
Emergency Plan
Each student should carry a copy of their plan and a copy should be left with a family member/friend
who is not traveling with you
Name:
Host:
Host Primary Business Address:
Host Primary Business Phone:
Primary Host Name:
Mobile Phone:
Other Phone:
Email:
Skype:
Alternate Host Name:
Other Phone:
Mobile Phone:
Email:
Itinerary:
Location 1Dates:
Hotel:
Location 2 Dates:
Hotel:
Ticket/Reservation #:
Name:
Address:
Phone:
Name:
Address:
Phone:
Background Info For RI Fellows in Brazil
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
All grantees will have to fly on American flag carriers only. This regulation is mandated by the “Fly
America” Act.
Make sure that you will have your passport back from the Brazilian consulate with the visa for your
travel date.
Be aware that the number of checked bags allowed per person in domestic flights in Brazil is one,
with a maximum weight of 50 lbs. plus one carry-on item with no more than 11 lbs. It is the
grantee’s responsibility to pay for any baggage excess, if that is the case.
FIRST STEPS IN BRAZIL
USAID/Brazil is in Brasília. Mark Sorensen ([email protected]) and Alexandre Mancuso
([email protected]) are points of contact there. USAID/Brazil would appreciate getting an
email from RI-fellows informing of their contact details in Brazil, including mailing address, phone
numbers and email address. USAID/Brazil will be of assistance when it can. USAID/Brazil would
appreciate your assistance in being interviewed at some point during your time in Brazil. The
objective of getting press on your participation in RI-F is to help gather interest by additional host
organizations in collaborating with RI-F. The U.S. Embassy in Brazil is located in Brasília and there
are consulates in Recife, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR REGISTERING WITH THE FEDERAL POLICE
Before you go to the nearest Federal Police office:
1. The first form you will need to fill out is the “Registro Nacional de Estrangeiro/Agendamento de
Estrangeiro.” The form can be found here: https://servicos.dpf.gov.br/sincreWeb/
Fill out this form with information exactly as it appears on your visa and passport! Under
the address, you will need to indicate either your host university address or an address of
your host professor (you should consult your host professor to ask them which they prefer).
This is important because you will need to show a “comprovante” (proof) of this address at
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the time of registration. A comprovante can be a bill, a bank statement, or your Terms of
Award with the name of your host institution and an official document that states your host
university address.
The form needs to be printed after it is completed. Adjust your printer settings, so that the
entire page fits on one single piece of paper.
2. Verify if there is availability to schedule an appointment for your visit to the Federal Police
on this website: https://servicos.dpf.gov.br/sincreWeb/pesquisaAgendamento.jsp
You should enter the code listed under the upper left corner of your newly printed
document. If the system shows that the Federal Police in your city requires an online
appointment for your visit, you must take the first available date within 30 days of entering
the country. However, if you cannot find a date within your initial 30-day period, or if the
system does not allow you to make an appointment, you must go immediately to the closest
Federal Police office with all the necessary forms and documentation, and not miss your
deadline!
3. You will need to pay two different fees. To generate these two payment forms, you will
access this website: www2.dpf.gov.br/gru/gru?nac=1. That means you will fill out the
“Dados de Recolhimento” page twice and what will make it different each time is the
“Codigo de Receita” you will input.
4. The first time, you will enter code 140082 (Taxa Registro de
Estrangeiros/Reestabelecimento de Registro). As soon as you enter that code, the system
will automatically feed the “Valor Total” field. Then you can hit “Gerar Guia” to see the
system-generated payment form. You must print it.
5. You will repeat the process a second time to generate a form for the payment of the second
fee. This time, you will enter Codigo de Receita 140120 (Carteria de Estrangeiro Primeira Via),
which will automatically feed the “Valor Total” field. Then you can hit “Gerar Guia” to see
the system-generated payment form. You must print it.
6. After you have printed both those payment forms, take them and your passport to the bank
(Caixa) or a Loteria and pay them. Make sure you receive official receipts stapled to your
payment forms.
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You will need approximately US$100 to pay for both forms, registro de estrangeiro and carteira
de estrangeiro. Payment needs to be made in Reais and in cash.
We strongly suggest that you call the Polícia Federal of your jurisdiction and ask where the
“Setor de Estrangeiros” – Foreigners’ Section is located. In many cities the address posted on
the website www.dpf.gov.br can be out of date. To locate the contact information for the
Polícia Federal of your jurisdiction, go to the section titled “PF pelo Brasil” on the left menu.)
What to take to the Federal Police:
• Your passport, along with a photocopy of the identification page, the visa page and any pages
with marks related to previous travels to Brazil (visas, entry and exit stamps).
• Original “Pedido de visto consular” (Visa application form). You will have received this form with
your stamped passport.
• Two recent photos (1" x 1 1/2" i.e., 3cm x 4cm) with white background only. Note that they
are not passport photos, but smaller than that. No Polaroid pictures are accepted.
• Notarized copy of Birth Certificate. (can be required if there’s a typo on your name or your
parents’ name on your visa application form)
• The payment stubs for the two forms you paid for at the bank (GRU – Guia de Recolhimento da
União).
The above list applies to the grantee and to any dependents, including babies.
It is important to note that to enter the Federal Police office you will need to be appropriately
dressed, i.e., no shorts, miniskirts, sleeveless T-shirts, or “flip flops.” Jeans are acceptable.
At the Federal Police:
At the Federal Police, you will also need to complete the Requerimento de Registro. On this form, you
will need to provide a phone number and a local address.
You will be fingerprinted by the Federal Police. Please note that fingerprinting is part of the process
for all recipients of ID cards, including Brazilians.
Once this process has been completed, the Federal Police will issue you a protocolo, which will
serve as your ID card until a permanent one arrives at the Federal Police office. Please note that you
will have to return to that office to pick up your card in approximately two months. It is your
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responsibility to check in with them to verify if your card has arrived - they will most often not be
able to notify you.
We advise that you staple this protocolo inside your passport as you may need to present it for any
future trips to Brazil. We also recommend that you make a copy of the protocolo and keep it with
your other important documents.
IDENTIFICATION CARDS
As per the above information, the Federal Police issues an ID card after the grantee registers in
their offices. Your protocolo can serve as a substitute for the ID card for all intents and purposes.
The ID card can also substitute for your passport for most everyday identification purposes. To
cash a check in a bank, however, your passport might be required. For travel purposes, both within
Brazil and elsewhere, your passport should be used.
We suggest that you carry a notarized copy of your protocolo until your ID card has been received.
Once you have this card, you should carry a notarized copy of this official document. Keep the
originals of your protocolo and ID card in a safe location.
VISA EXTENSIONS
Grantees are advised not to seek visa extensions after arriving in Brazil since the renewal process
can be very bureaucratic and time consuming. Brazilian law states that any visa extension
application must be submitted to the authorities 30 days before the expiration of the current visa.
The implication is that the renewal can be received within 30 days and before the expiration of the
valid visa. This is not always the case; visa renewals have taken as long as three months to process.
Grantees are responsible for making sure that their visas are valid for their entire stay in Brazil.
However, if you need a visa extension once you are in Brazil, you must contact the local federal
police office for information on the procedure for visa extensions.
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REGISTERING ONLINE WITH THE U.S. EMBASSY OR CONSULATE
The State Department recently launched a secure online travel registration website, which allows
you, as an American citizen, to record foreign travel and residence information. The State
Department can use this information to communicate with and assist you in case of an emergency.
U.S. citizens around the world who travel or reside abroad can access this site either through the
travel.state.gov website or directly at https://step.state.gov/step/ . We urge you to register yourself
and your family and to become acquainted with travel registration.
The new Internet travel registration service for American citizens allows you to register and update
your contact information on the Internet at any time, making it easier for you to keep your
information updated. The site also provides you with travel information customized to your unique
travel agenda and itinerary. The data you provide is secured behind Department of State firewalls,
accessed only by cleared personnel in U.S. Embassies, U.S. Consulates, and the Department of
State, and releasable only under the provisions of the Privacy Act.
If you encounter any difficulties or have any questions about the travel registration
website, please send an e-mail to [email protected].
You may also register yourself and family members directly at one of the U.S. diplomatic posts in
Brazil: Brasília, Recife, Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo.
CUSTOMS
Temporary Importation of Electronic Equipment into Brazil
According to Brazilian government regulations, customs officials have the right to detain, not
confiscate, any electronic equipment, no matter what prior documentation may have been presented
to Brazilian officials in the U.S. or in Brazil. There are currently no relevant, well-defined guidelines
for the temporary importation of sophisticated electronic equipment.
Recent arrivals in other programs such as Fulbright have been able to bring their basic computer
equipment into Brazil without any bureaucratic problems at the port of entry. As a result, we only
recommend the documentation for specialized and/or sophisticated electronic equipment.
For specialized and/or sophisticated electronic equipment, it is advisable to obtain an official letter
declaring intent to enter and leave the country with the stated equipment. Even though there is no
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official Brazilian government requirement to have the above letter or declaration, they may be
useful should there be clearing problems at Brazilian customs.
If equipment is detained, the grantee has to file a request for the release of the equipment. If this
occurs, contact the Commission so we may ask customs to expedite the release of the equipment.
This process can only be initiated after the equipment has been detained. This clearance process can
take up to 30 days.
PRACTICAL ISSUES
BANKING IN BRAZIL
Banking in Brazil, as in many countries outside of the US, can be filled with fees and extra costs
depending on the company you bank with. Our best advice is to prepare well before your arrival to
avoid any unnecessary charges or difficulties during your fellowship. Below are some guidelines that
may help you manage banking in Brazil.
US Bank Accounts in Brazil
Many banks based in the US charge significant fees to withdraw money from ATMs, transfer
money, or use debit or credit cards internationally. Past exchange program participants have
experienced fees of up to US$10 each time they withdraw money from a Brazilian ATM, which can
certainly add up over your stay in the country. Understand your bank’s policies - Check with your
current bank about their policies concerning international ATM/withdrawal fees, debit/credit card
fees and the amount of money you will be able to extract per visit. Some banks may waive fees if
you let them know of your departure in advance (which you should do anyway to avoid freezing on
your account for fraud).
Several banks in the US are also present in Brazil and may have little or no transaction fees. HSBC
is widely considered to be the best bank in terms of service and has no fees, while Citi and Banco
Santander are also present in Brazil (but have some fees). Keep in mind that most of these banks
are in major cities, but may not be found in smaller towns in Brazil.
1. Withdraw money from ATMs with international compatibility - Most ATMs with
VISA/Cirrus signs on them accept international cards, as well as almost all Banco 24 horas
which accept nearly all cards (but often charge ATM fees).
2. Guard Against Fraud - ATM fraud, where thieves implant a magnetic strip or cameras inside
or near ATMs to copy your information and use it without your knowledge, is a popular
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form of fraud in Brazil. It is a good idea to only use ATMs that are inside banks with
security guards or 24-hour ATMs that are in safe places (shopping centers, supermarkets,
etc). It is also advisable to check your online bank statements once a week as another
precaution against fraud. In some instances, travelers have brought two debit cards to
ensure functionality and as a precaution in case card information is stolen.
How to get a CPF number:
This is a fairly simple process but takes a few days. You should go either to Banco do Brasil or the
nearest post office with your passport, Polícia Federal registration identification paper and a piece
of mail from the address where you are living (preferably in your name). A processing fee of 5 reais
will be charged. Then in two or three days, (the exact date is printed on your receipt), you need to
go to the Receita Federal to collect your CPF number.
Getting a CPF number is not mandatory, but having one can make your life easier, since it is used
for various transactions, from joining a video club and obtaining a cell line to buying flights online.
SERVICES
WATER
In Brazil, especially in urban areas, the water supply is safe and is used for everyday activities like
showering and brushing your teeth without any risk. It is recommended, however, that you use
bottled spring water for drinking. This is readily available, with or without effervescence ("água
mineral com/sem gás").
ELECTRICITY
The electricity supply varies from city to city. It may be 220 or 110 volts with 60 cycles or Hz
frequency. If you are bringing electrical appliances remember you will need a transformer. You can
buy adapters and transformers at the airport or at any hardware or electrical store. They can be
easily found in Brazil at very reasonable prices.
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
In Brazil, the metric system is used for almost everything. If you go shopping you buy a kilo (2.2
pounds) of meat, a hundred grams (0.2 lbs.) of butter, a liter (a U.S. quart) of wine. Land is
measured in hectares (2.5 acres) and cloth in meters (39.4 inches or 1.09 yards). A kilometer is 0.6
of a mile.
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TIME
In Brazil both the 12-hour and 24-hour clock systems are used in speech, although only the 24clock for formal timetables. Brazil observes daylight savings time from October to February when
clocks are 3 hours behind GMT.
Banking hours are usually from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM in major cities. The Post Office works from
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the week and from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturdays.
Restaurants in big cities do not usually serve dinner before seven in the evening. Nightlife starts
after eleven or even later.
MAIL
As well as ordinary mail ("simples"), you can use registered mail ("registrada") or special delivery
(“urgent”). Your name and address must be written on the back of the envelope. If you want a reply
sent to you, include your local Zip code. Find out the "código postal" from the Directory at the
post office or at http://www.correios.com.br/servicos/cep/cep_loc_log.cfm
Our suggestion is that you do not encourage people to send you packages from abroad. Any person
receiving packages in Brazil by any means (regular mail, FedEx, DHL, etc) is responsible for
payment of taxes upon the package’s arrival. These taxes cannot be paid in advance by the sender
and are often quite expensive.
Tax exemptions:
1) Packages of up to US$ 50.00 (fifty US dollars) provided that they are sent through regular
mail and both the sender and the addressee are individual entities, not a company;
2) Medicine in general, provided that it is sent to an individual entity who must present the
medical prescription for clearance;
3) Books, newspapers, and periodicals in general on print versions.
MAKING TELEPHONE CALLS
There are many landline telephone providers in Brazil and you will need to use one of them to place
a call to a town or city outside of your area code, to another Brazilian state, and to another country.
These providers may vary from region to region and they have their own two-digit code to be
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dialed when utilizing their service. If you are not sure which to use, you can use 21. It stands for
one of these providers and its coverage is nationwide.
How to make a call to a city that has a different area code from the city where you live or is
located in another Brazilian state:
Either from a landline or a cell phone:
1) Dial 0
2) Dial the two-digit operator code of the telephone provider (Refer to above, for example, 21)
3) Dial the area code
4) Dial the number you wish to reach
•
0 + the two-digit operator code + area code + number you wish to call
•
Please note that if you are calling the city of Rio de Janeiro and are using the
telephone provider with the “21- digit code”, you would dial 0 + 21 +21 + whatever
8 –digit number you wish to call.
How to make a call to outside Brazil, either from a landline or a cell phone:
NOTE 1: The access code to the US is 1
1) Dial 00
2) Dial the two-digit operator code
3) Dial the country code
4) Dial the area code
5) Dial the number you wish to reach
•
00 + the two-digit operator code + country code + area code + number you wish to
call
•
Ex: For calling a NY number from anywhere in Brazil,
dial 00 + the two-digit code + 1 + 212 + number you wish to call
NOTE 2: If you are not a Skype user, the most economic way to make international calls is by
buying an international phone card at any kiosk or news stand.
How to place a call to the US by using a prepaid phone card:
1) Dial the Access Number
2) Enter your PIN Number
3) Enter the number you wish to dial:
•
Country exit code + 1 + Area Code + Number you wish to call
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•
Ex: For calling New York from Brazil, dial 00 + 1 + 212 + phone number
Note that in this option it is not necessary to use the two-digit operator code.
CELLULAR PHONES
There are several different cell phone providers throughout Brazil. The major companies that offer
national coverage are: Vivo, Tim, Claro and Oi. It is a good idea to check with each one to find
out about special offers that might best suit your needs.
It is important to know that cell phone calls are very expensive in Brazil, especially when you use it
to call phones outside of your area code or to make international calls. Also, if you are temporarily
in an area outside of your phone’s area code, you get charged for roaming.
Important Phone Numbers:
Emergency/Police (24 hours): 190
Ambulance: 192
Fire Department: 193
BROADBAND INTERNET
There are two major providers: NET and Speedy (this information is dated so please ask). Both are
also cable TV and land phone providers and may offer special deals if you request joint services.
ABOUT BRAZIL
Average Annual Temperatures
Although 90 percent of the country is within the tropical zone, more than 60 percent of the
population lives in areas where altitude, sea winds, or cold polar fronts moderate the temperature.
There are five climatic regions in Brazil: equatorial, tropical, semi arid, highland tropical, and
subtropical. Plateau cities such as São Paulo, Brasília, and Belo Horizonte have very mild climates
averaging 66°F (19°C). Rio de Janeiro, Recife, and Salvador on the coast have warm climates
balanced by the constancy of the Trade Winds. In the southern Brazilian cities of Porto Alegre and
Curitiba, the subtropical climate is similar to parts of the U.S. and Europe with frosts occurring
with some frequency. In this region temperatures in winter can fall below freezing. Despite the
popular image of the Amazon as a region of blistering heat, temperatures of more than 90°F (32°C)
are rarely experienced there. In fact, the annual average temperature in the Amazon region is in the
range of 72 79°F (22-26°C), with only a very small seasonal variation between the warmest and the
coldest months. The hottest part of Brazil is the northeast where, during the dry season, between
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May and November, temperatures of more than 100°F (38°C) are recorded frequently. The
northeast has greater seasonal variation in temperatures than does the Amazon region. Along the
Atlantic coast from Recife to Rio de Janeiro, mean temperatures range from 73°F to 81°F (2327°C). Inland, on higher ground, temperatures are lower, ranging from 64°F to 70°F (18-21°C).
South of Rio, the seasons are more noticeable and the annual range of temperature greater. The
average temperature for this part of the country is in the range between 63°F to 66°F (17-19°C).
Copyright © 2003 Brazilian Tourism Office.
Tourism Information
You may find additional general information about Brazil at
http://www.visitbrasil.com/index.html?__locale=en. This website is maintained by the Brazilian
travel bureau and contains useful links for those seeking travel information and tips. It is also a
useful tool for finding temporary hotel or hostel accommodations in most Brazilian cities.
Country Specific Information from the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs:
http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1072.html
TRAVEL OUTSIDE BRAZIL DURING THE GRANT PERIOD
Please take note that you will need a visa with multiple entries to Brazil in order not to have
problems with immigration once you return to Brazil.
APPENDIX II: U.S. Embassy and Consulates Information
U.S. Embassy Brasília
SES - Av. das Nações, Quadra 801, Lote 03
70403-900 - Brasília DF
Phone: (61) 3312-7000
Fax: (61) 3312-7651
Website: http://brazil.usembassy.gov/
U.S. Consulate General São Paulo
Rua Henri Dunant, 500,
Chácara Santo Antonio,
04709-110 – São Paulo SP
Phone: (11) 5186-7000
Fax: (11) 5186-7159
Website: http://saopaulo.usconsulate.gov/
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U.S. Consulate General Rio de Janeiro
Av. Presidente Wilson, 147 Castelo
20.030-020 – Rio de Janeiro RJ
Phone: (21) 3823-2000
Fax: (21) 3823-2003
Website: http://riodejaneiro.usconsulate.gov/
U.S. Consulate Recife
Rua Goncalves Maia, 163
Bairro Boa Vista
50.070-060 – Recife PE
Phone: (81) 3416-3080
Fax: (81) 3231-1906
Website: http://recife.usconsulate.gov/
U.S. Consular Agencies in other cities
http://brazil.usembassy.gov/addresses.html
APPENDIX IV: USEFUL WEBSITES
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program – STEP
https://step.state.gov/step/
BRAZIL
General Information:
Information provided by Brazil’s Tourism Office
http://www.visitbrasil.com/index.html?__locale=en
Country-specific information (U.S. Department of State):
http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1072.html
Background Notes on Brazil (U.S. Department of State):
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/35640.htm
U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Brazil: http://brazil.usembassy.gov/#
Living in Brazil (Housing, Furniture, Travel, Networking)
http://www.easyquarto.com.br/
http://saopaulo.en.craigslist.org/
http://rio.en.craigslist.org/
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http://salvador.en.craigslist.org/
http://www.gringoes.com.br/
http://www.amsoc.com.br/ - American Society of Sao Paulo
http:// www.americansocietyrio.org/ - American Society of Rio de Janeiro
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