Internships in Brazil

Prepare for an Internship

Set goals

Before embarking on your internship journey in Brazil, it's essential to set clear goals to make the most out of your experience:

• Gain practical experience in your field. Apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations for a better understanding.
• Enhance your resume with international work experience. Stand out to employers with valuable global perspectives and skills.
• Immerse yourself in Brazilian culture and improve your Portuguese language skills. Engage with locals to gain authentic insights and conversational fluency.
• Build a global network of professional contacts. Cultivate relationships that may lead to future collaboration opportunities.

Understand the benefits

Interning in Brazil comes with a host of benefits that will enhance both your personal and professional life:

• Professional development. Work with leading companies and organizations in the field of finance, business, marketing, hospitality, environmental conservation, or community work.
• Cultural immersion. Experience Brazil's vibrant culture and traditions of vibrant parades, colonial architecture, and lively music scene.
• Language skills. Improve your Portuguese, an increasingly valuable language.
• Networking. Build connections with professionals from around the world.

Things to know

• Accommodation. Options range from shared apartments to homestays. Major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro may offer student housing near internship sites.
• Budgeting. Plan for accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. Brazil’s cost of living varies by city, with major urban areas being more expensive.
• Visa Requirements. Most internships require a specific visa. Research the appropriate type and allow time for processing, as requirements may vary based on your country of origin.
• Health & Safety. Ensure you have health insurance valid in Brazil, and check vaccination recommendations, such as for yellow fever or hepatitis.
• Language Skills. While Portuguese is essential for most roles, basic language skills can enhance your experience and interactions in daily life.

Choose a Location

Brazil is vast, and each city offers unique opportunities for interns.

São Paulo

As Brazil's financial and business hub, São Paulo is ideal for those looking to gain experience in finance, marketing, and international business.

Rio de Janeiro

Known for its beautiful beaches and lively culture, Rio offers internships in tourism, hospitality, and environmental conservation.

Rosário da Limeira

Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of rural Brazil with environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, or community development, Rosário da Limeira is the perfect place to make a difference.

Choose a Field

Brazil’s dynamic economy and unique ecosystem make it an excellent choice for internships in various fields. Here are some fields where you can gain valuable, hands-on experience while exploring Brazil’s vibrant culture and landscapes.

Business and Economics

Brazil is a significant player in the global economy with its rich resources and booming industries. Interning in business and economics here gives students exposure to emerging markets, entrepreneurship, and international trade, offering insight into business strategies in developing economies.

Tourism

Brazil’s tourism sector provides interns with opportunities to engage in sustainable travel practices and promote responsible tourism. Interning in Brazil’s vibrant tourism industry offers valuable experience in hospitality management, cultural exchange, and understanding the dynamics of travel in a diverse country.

Environmental Studies

With the Amazon rainforest and other unique ecosystems, Brazil presents extraordinary opportunities in environmental studies. Interns can participate in research projects, conservation efforts, and initiatives aimed at sustainability, making it an ideal destination for those passionate about environmental conservation and ecological research.

Tips & Advice

Embarking on an internship in Brazil is a thrilling experience that requires a few key steps to ensure you’re set up for success. Here’s how to get started.

1. Get matched

To explore internship options that align with your interests, try GoAbroad’s Online Advisor for personalized recommendations sent directly to your inbox.

2. Choose a program

Create a MyGoAbroad account to save and compare programs side-by-side. This lets you find the ideal program and track your application progress.

3. Decide when to go

Timing your internship in Brazil can shape your experience. Consider the following seasonal highlights:

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and vibrant, perfect for fieldwork in environmental or community projects.
• Fall (Mar-May): Great for city internships as temperatures cool slightly; ideal for business or tech sectors.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cooler months, great for city-based programs and public health internships.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Excellent time for conservation internships as ecosystems spring to life.

4. Choose how long to stay

The length of your internship can determine the depth of your experience, and Brazil has options for all preferences:

• 1-3 months: Ideal for short-term projects or exploratory internships, providing a taste of your field.
• 3-6 months: Great for more immersive experiences in a specific industry or project.
• 1 year: Perfect for those seeking in-depth knowledge, long-term projects, or a gap year experience.

5. Funding & scholarships

Complete the Scholarships & Deals Application to get instantly matched with funding opportunities, making your internship in Brazil more affordable.

6. Apply

Once you’ve found a program that excites you, submit your application to secure your spot. A program coordinator will guide you through the next steps.

7. Get your essentials

Before heading to Brazil, make sure to arrange your essentials:

• Visa and Passport: Visit GoAbroad Passports & Visas to check Brazil’s entry requirements.
• Flights and Insurance: Book your flights and GoAbroad Insurance for travel protection.
• Accommodation and Resources: Use GoAbroad Travel Resources to find housing options and other essentials.

Brazil’s vast landscapes and opportunities await!