Quick facts

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Brazil, the largest economy in South America, is renowned for its dynamic markets, diverse industries, and labor force. Its employment laws emphasize worker protections, rights, and benefits, reflecting the country’s commitment to fair labor practices.

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Employment Contracts

Employment contracts in Brazil are categorized into three types: fixed-term, indefinite-term, and intermittent contracts.

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Probation Period

The probation period can last up to 90 days and may be renewed once within this limit (e.g., 45 days, renewable for 45 days, or 30 days, renewable for 60 days).

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Working Hours

Standard working hours are 8 hours per day or 44 hours per week, with employees entitled to one day off weekly (typically Sunday). Overtime is capped at 2 hours daily, with a 50% premium, and night shifts incur an additional 20% premium. Overtime exceeding the daily cap requires registration with the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

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Vacation Days

After 12 months of continuous service, employees are entitled to 30 consecutive days of paid vacation, to be taken within 23 months of eligibility. Vacation may be split into up to three periods, with at least one period being 14 days and no period shorter than 5 days.

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Sick Leave

Employees are entitled to 15 days of paid sick leave annually with a valid medical certificate. If an illness or surgery necessitates more than 15 days off, salary from the 16th day onward is covered by INSS (Social Security), provided the employee has contributed for at least one year.

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Wages and Salary Payment

Compensation must be paid monthly by the fifth working day of the following month.‍

Monthly minimum wage (2024): 1,412 BRL.

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Public Holidays

Employees are entitled to seven paid national holidays and five religious or municipal holidays.

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Employer Taxes

Employers must make deposits of 8% of an employee's gross compensation into the Brazilian Government Severance Indemnity Fund Law (FGTS), plus a 40% penalty on the account balance in case of termination without cause.

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Employee Taxes

Income tax rates in Brazil vary by monthly taxable income, with progressive rates applied to earnings.

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Notice Period

After the probation period, notice requirements depend on tenure:

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• Up to 1 year: 1 month’s notice (end of the month).
• 2–9 years: 2 months’ notice.
• 10+ years: 3 months’ notice.

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Company policies may stipulate longer notice periods, but the minimum is 1 month.

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Termination and Severance Pay

Employees are entitled to:

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• Balance of wages.
• Proportional payment for unused vacation and a one-third holiday bonus.
• Proportional 13th-month salary (Christmas bonus).
• Access to FGTS funds, with an additional 40% penalty paid by the employer.
• Any benefits outlined in collective agreements, company policies, or contracts.