*(Detailed comparison with pros, cons, and prices – quote to check updated prices)*
Important Tip! Spend a few minutes getting a quote from each expat health insurance option below. This will give you a clear idea of the total cost based on your age and needs, making comparison much easier. These few minutes could save you a fortune! 💰
Before we start: While Brazil has a public healthcare system (SUS), it is often overwhelmed. Private healthcare is essential for expats—a simple emergency room visit can cost R$ 5,000+ (over $1,000 USD) without insurance. This guide was updated in June 2024 with the best options for foreigners.
Finally, after discussing insurance, you’ll find a Complete Guide to Immigration in Brazil further down and a safety guide for foreigners in Brazil.
Why Foreigners Need Health Insurance in Brazil
The Brazilian Healthcare System: Public vs. Private
| Factor | Brazil (Public SUS) | Brazil (Private) |
| Cost | Free for all (in theory) | Monthly premiums (R$ 200-1000+) |
| Emergency Care | Available, but wait times can be long | Immediate care at premium facilities |
| Specialists | Long waiting lists (months) | Appointments in days or weeks |
| Medications | Partially free or subsidized | Co-payments or full coverage depending on plan |
| Hospitals | Variable quality and resources | International-standard hospitals in major cities |
Without private insurance, you risk:
✔ Facing significant out-of-pocket medical bills
✔ Experiencing long waits for essential treatments
✔ Being denied certain visas or residency permits that require proof of health coverage
1. Cigna Global – Best for Comprehensive International Coverage
Flexible Plans
- Silver, Gold, Platinum plans to match different budgets and coverage needs.
- Flexible modular design: Add dental, vision, or medical evacuation.
Coverage Comparison
| Benefit | Silver Plan | Gold Plan |
| Outpatient Care | 80% after deductible | 100% |
| Inpatient Care | 100% after deductible | 100% |
| Maternity | Not included | $15,000 coverage |
| Mental Health | 20 sessions/year | 40 sessions/year |
Real Costs (2024 Cases):
- Appendectomy: Patient paid $150 (of a $10,000 total bill).
- Specialist Consultation: $25 co-pay (vs. $200+ without insurance).
2. IMG Global – The Best for Budget-Conscious Expats
History and Credibility
International Medical Group® (IMG) has been a leader in global health insurance since 1990. They offer a range of affordable, customizable plans ideal for expats, digital nomads, and retirees in Brazil.
Specific Coverages
- Customizable Plans: Choose from Patriot International, iTravelInsured, and Global Medical Insurance to fit your budget and length of stay.
- Large Network: Access to a broad network of hospitals and clinics in major Brazilian cities.
- Emergency Evacuation: Covered in most plans, providing peace of mind.
Pricing Details (2024 Estimates in USD)
| Age | Patriot Silver | Patriot Gold | Global Medical |
| 25-35 | $110 | $180 | $250 |
| 36-45 | $140 | $220 | $310 |
| 46-55 | $190 | $280 | $390 |
Key Advantage: IMG is renowned for providing substantial coverage at a more affordable price point than many competitors, making it a top choice for those on a budget.
3. Now Health – Best for Professionals and Freelancers
Premier Network
Direct access to the best doctors and hospitals in:
- São Paulo
- Rio de Janeiro
- Brasília
Coverage for Freelancers
- Loss of Earnings: Compensation if an illness prevents you from working.
- Medical Repatriation: Covered in full.
- Personal Liability: Up to $1 million coverage.
Investment by Profile (Monthly Estimates)
| Profession | World | World Plus |
| Engineers | $170 | $250 |
| Teachers | $150 | $220 |
| Consultants | $190 | $280 |
4. Allianz Care – Best for Families and Students
Partnerships and Network
- Strong direct billing network in Brazil, including Labs a+ and Vita Imaging.
- “Easy Entry” plans with shorter waiting periods for pre-existing conditions.
Family Benefits
- Well-child care: Vaccinations and pediatric check-ups.
- Maternity package available on higher-tier plans.
- 24/7 telemedicine with multi-language support.
Pricing for Digital Nomad Visa (VITEM XIV)
- 1 year: ~$600 – $1,200
- 2 years: ~$1,100 – $2,200
5. SafetyWing – Revolution for Digital Nomads
Innovative Model
- Subscription-based billing (cancel anytime).
- Activation in minutes online.
Included Coverages
- Telemedicine: Unlimited online consultations.
- Travel Coverage: Covers you during short trips outside Brazil.
- COVID-19: Testing and treatment covered.
Important Limitations
- Does NOT cover pre-existing conditions.
- Lower coverage limits than traditional insurers.
Prices by Profile
| Type | Nomad Insurance | Remote Health |
| Individual (Age 30) | $45 | $120 |
| Family (2 adults + 2 kids) | $140 | $360 |
6. GeoBlue – Best for Americans Abroad
Exclusive for Americans
- Xplorer Plan connects to the Blue Cross Blue Shield network when in the U.S.
- Seamless coverage between the U.S. and Brazil.
Key Benefits
- No deductibles on many plans.
- Pre-existing conditions may be covered.
- Wellness benefits for routine check-ups.
7. Comparison Websites (Particularly for Brazil)
Top Platforms for Brazil
- Seguros Promo: Offers plans from international insurers tailored for Brazil. Portuguese/English support.
- Real Seguros: A major Brazilian broker with options for foreigners.
Advantages of Aggregators
- Real-time comparison of dozens of insurers.
- Advanced filters for:
- Direct billing networks in your city.
- Dental and vision add-ons.
- Specific visa requirements.
Average Savings: Up to 30% cheaper than going direct by finding special promotions.
Mega Comparison Table: Health Insurance for Expats in Brazil (2024)
| Criterion | IMG Global | Cigna Global | Allianz Care | Now Health | SafetyWing | GeoBlue | Foyer Global Health | Comparison Sites |
| Ideal For | Budget-Conscious | Comprehensive Coverage | Families/Students | Professionals | Digital Nomads | Americans | Premium Coverage | Best Value |
| Max. Coverage (USD) | Up to $5M | Unlimited | $2M | $5M | $1M/year | Varies by plan | Unlimited | Varies |
| Network in Brazil | Wide | Excellent (Albert Einstein, Sírio-Libanês) | Strong (Labs a+, Vita) | Premium | Limited | Good | Exclusive Premium Network | Depends on plan |
| Pre-Existing Conditions | 12-month wait | 3-month wait | 12-month wait | 6-month wait | Not Covered | Partial Coverage | Immediate Coverage | Varies |
| Maternity | $5k | $15k | Included (Plus plans) | $30k | Not Covered | Optional | Unlimited | Optional |
| Outpatient Care | 80-100% | 80-100% | 90-100% | 100% | 80% | 100% | 100% + Concierge | Varies |
| Telemedicine | 10 consults/year | Unlimited | 24/7 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Included | 24/7 + Personal Manager | Depends |
| Medical Evacuation | $25k limit | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Private Medical Jet | Included |
| COVID-19 | 80% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% + Vaccines | Varies |
| Activation Time | 72 hours | 48 hours | 24 hours | 24 hours | 15 minutes | 24-48 hours | Immediate | Immediate to 5 days |
| App/Support | 4.0★ | 4.8★ (PT/EN) | 4.7★ (PT/EN) | 4.9★ | 4.5★ (EN) | 4.6★ (EN) | 5.0★ (10 languages) | Varies |
| Monthly Price (USD)* | $90 – $200 | $250 – $500 | $130 – $320 | $270 – $550 | $45 – $120 | $200 – $400 | $450 – $900 | $50 – $400 |
| Payment Frequency | Annual | Annual/Quarterly | Semi-Annual | Quarterly | Monthly | Annual | Annual | Flexible |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Accepted | Accepted | Accepted | Ideal | Specialized | Compatible | Exclusive | Specific Filters |
Legend:
- ★ = Overall rating (1-5)
- Green = Best in category
- Red = Important limitation
- Prices: Reference for individuals aged 30-40. Values can vary significantly with age and additional coverages.
- Abbreviations: Albert Einstein and Sírio-Libanês are top-tier hospitals in São Paulo.
How to Use This Table:
- Identify Your Profile: Are you a digital nomad, a resident with a family, or looking for premium coverage?
- Check the “Deal Breakers”: Pre-existing conditions, maternity, and hospital network are crucial.
- Compare the Highlights in Green: They indicate the best services in each category.
- Consider Cost vs. Benefit: The cheapest plan (SafetyWing) has limitations, just as the most expensive one (Foyer) offers exclusive services.
Source: Data compiled based on policies, testimonials, and research from June 2024. Always consult the official insurer websites for the most up-to-date information and accurate quotes.
Complete Migration Guide for Expats Moving to Brazil
1. Common Visas for Foreigners
| Visa Type | Validity | Allows Work? | Key Requirement |
| VITEM I – Tourism | 90 days | ❌ No | Proof of funds, return ticket |
| VITEM II – Business | 90 days | ❌ No (meetings only) | Invitation letter from a Brazilian company |
| VITEM IV – Work | 2 years | ✅ Yes | Employment contract from a Brazilian entity |
| VITEM V – Investor | 2+ years | ✅ Yes | Significant investment in a Brazilian business |
| VITEM XIII – Digital Nomad | 1 year (renewable) | ✅ Yes (for foreign employer) | ~$1,500 USD/month income + health insurance |
| VITEM IX – Family Reunion | Tied to sponsor | ✅ Maybe | Marriage or stable union certificate |
2. Cost of Living Comparison (2024)
| City | Rent (1-Bedroom Apt) | Monthly Expenses (Single) | Expat Community |
| São Paulo | R$ 2,500 – 4,500 ($500-$900) | R$ 4,000+ ($800+) | Very Large |
| Rio de Janeiro | R$ 2,200 – 4,000 ($450-$800) | R$ 3,800+ ($750+) | Large |
| Florianópolis | R$ 1,800 – 3,000 ($350-$600) | R$ 3,200+ ($650+) | Growing |
| Salvador | R$ 1,200 – 2,200 ($250-$450) | R$ 2,500+ ($500+) | Moderate |
3. Step-by-Step Immigration Process
- Choose the right visa based on your purpose (work, investment, remote work).
- Gather documents (passport, birth certificate, criminal record check, apostilled/translated).
- Apply online through the Brazilian consulate in your home country.
- Schedule an interview at the consulate.
- Arrive in Brazil and register (Obtain your CPF (tax ID) and RNM (Registro Nacional Migratório)).
4. Tips from Expats Who Made the Move
💡 “Learn Portuguese. Even a little goes a LONG way.” – Mark (USA → São Paulo)
💡 “Get your CPF number as soon as you can. You need it for everything.” – Chloe (UK → Rio)
💡 “Have a local fixer or ‘despachante’ help you with bureaucracy. It’s worth every penny.” – David (Canada → Florianópolis)
🧭 Essential Safety Guide for Expats in Brazil
Navigating safety is a fundamental part of adapting to life in Brazil. While the country is vibrant and welcoming, being aware of your surroundings and understanding local dynamics is crucial for a smooth experience. This guide offers practical advice to help you stay safe.
🏙️ Safety by City: What to Expect
Brazil is a continent-sized country, and safety varies dramatically from place to place.
| City / Region | Safety Level | Key Considerations |
| Southern States (PR, SC, RS) | Generally Safer | Cities like Florianópolis, Curitiba, and Joinville have higher development indices and lower crime rates. Standard city precautions apply. |
| São Paulo (State) | Variable | The financial capital. Wealthy neighborhoods (Jardins, Itaim Bibi) are safe with vigilance. Avoid deserted areas and be extremely cautious in the central old town (Centro, Luz) especially at night. |
| Rio de Janeiro (State) | Variable | World-famous beauty with stark contrasts. Zona Sul (Ipanema, Leblon) is generally safe during the day. Favelas are communities with their own rules; do not enter unless with a trusted, known local guide. |
| Nordeste (Bahia, Pernambuco) | Requires Caution | Tourist areas in Salvador (Pelourinho) and Recife (Boa Viagem) have a strong police presence but also high petty theft rates. Be extra vigilant on beaches and in crowds. |
| Brasília | Variable | The planned capital. The central sectors (Asa Sul, Asa Norte) are safe. The satellite cities (suburbs) can be dangerous and are not typical tourist destinations. |
🚨 Most Common Risks & How to Mitigate Them
- Pickpocketing & Snatch Theft (Arrebatação)
- How it happens: Thieves on foot or on motorcycles grab phones, jewelry, and bags from tables, hands, or car windows.
- Prevention:
- Never use your phone on the street next to the curb.
- Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or watches in public.
- Keep bags closed and on your lap, not on an empty chair or the floor, at cafes.
- In cars, keep windows up and doors locked, especially in traffic.
- “Good Samaritan” Scams
- How it happens: Someone points out a (fake) substance like mustard or poop on your clothes. While they or an accomplice “help” you clean it, they pick your pockets.
- Prevention: Politely but firmly say “Não, obrigado/a” (No, thank you) and quickly walk away. Do not let strangers get this close to you.
- ATM & Credit Card Skimming
- Prevention:
- Only use ATMs inside banks during business hours (not lobby ATMs at night or street ATMs).
- Cover your hand while entering your PIN.
- Use credit cards with chips or contactless payment whenever possible.
- Prevention:
📱 Essential Safety Apps for Brazil
- Life360 or Find My Friends: Share your location with trusted friends when going out.
- Google Maps: Download offline maps of your city to avoid looking like a lost tourist.
- 99Pop / Uber: Use these apps instead of hailing street taxis. The ride is tracked, and payment is cashless.
- Prey Anti-Theft: Install this on your laptop and phone. If stolen, you can track it, lock it, and wipe data.
🆘 What to Do in an Emergency
- Police: 190
- Ambulance (SAMU): 192
- Fire Department: 193
- Civil Police (for reporting crimes): 197
Key Phrases:
- “Preciso de ajuda!” (I need help!)
- “Chame a polícia!” (Call the police!)
- “Fui roubado/a.” (I was robbed.)
Building Your Local Safety Network
- Make Local Friends: They are your best source of advice on where to go and where to avoid.
- Join Expat Groups: Facebook groups like “Expats in São Paulo” or “Foreigners in Rio” are invaluable for getting real-time advice and recommendations.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a street or situation feels wrong, it probably is. Leave immediately.
- Blend In: Avoid looking like a tourist. Dress more casually. Leave the expensive camera in the bag until you need it.
Final Word: Don’t let fear dictate your experience. Brazil is an incredibly rewarding place to live. The key is to shift your mindset from “it won’t happen to me” to “I will be smart and proactive.” By adopting a cautious but not paranoid approach, you can fully enjoy the incredible culture, nature, and people that Brazil has to offer.
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
If you have:
✔ A clear plan (visa, job/income, city)
✔ A tolerance for bureaucracy (be patient!)
✔ A desire for a vibrant, cultural life (sun, beach, music, food)
✔ Understands that security can be an issue and you should mostly be on alert…always!
Brazil can be an incredible opportunity!
Immediate actions:
- Define your visa type.
- Start researching health insurance quotes.
- Begin learning Portuguese.
Boa sorte! Welcome to Brazil! (Always check official government websites for the most current visa information.)
