Brazil is a popular destination for international students seeking quality education and rich cultural experiences. Many foreign students also look for part time jobs in Brazil in 2025 to support their living expenses, gain work experience, and improve their Portuguese skills. This article provides a detailed guide on the best part time jobs available for foreign students in Brazil, including legal requirements, top job options, salaries, and tips for success.
Whether you are an exchange student, undergraduate, or graduate student, this guide will help you understand your opportunities to work part time in Brazil, how to find jobs, and what to expect in terms of pay and work conditions.
Why Foreign Students Look for Part Time Jobs in Brazil
Working part time while studying offers several benefits for foreign students:
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Financial support: Part time jobs help cover rent, food, transportation, and other expenses.
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Work experience: Gain skills and work habits that enhance your resume.
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Language practice: Improve your Portuguese by working in real-life settings.
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Cultural integration: Meet locals and understand Brazilian culture better.
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Networking: Build professional contacts for future career opportunities.
Brazil’s job market for students is growing, and many employers welcome international talent, especially those who bring bilingual skills or technical knowledge.
Legal Requirements for Foreign Students to Work Part Time in Brazil
Before searching for jobs, it is essential to understand Brazil’s legal rules for foreign student workers:
Student Visa Work Permission
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Foreign students on a student visa (VITEM IV) can legally work part time in Brazil if their course is at least 4 hours per day.
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The maximum work limit is 20 hours per week during the school term and full-time during vacation periods.
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Work must relate to the student's field of study or be authorized by the Ministry of Education.
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The employer must apply for work authorization with the Federal Police.
Work Permit Process
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Once you have a student visa, the university can assist in applying for a work permit (authorization).
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Employers must register the student as a legal employee and follow all labor laws.
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Illegal work can cause visa problems, so always follow the rules.
Top 10 Best Part Time Jobs in Brazil for Foreign Students 2025
Here are the most popular and accessible part time jobs for foreign students in Brazil, with a detailed description of each:
1. English Teacher or Tutor
Many Brazilians want to learn English. Foreign students fluent in English can teach or tutor privately or at language schools.
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Salary: R$ 20–50 per hour
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Requirements: Good English skills, some teaching experience preferred
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Benefits: Flexible hours, possibility of remote work
2. Barista or Café Worker
Coffee shops and cafés often hire part time workers for customer service, preparing drinks, and cashier duties.
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Salary: R$ 1,200 – R$ 1,800 monthly
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Requirements: Basic Portuguese helpful, good communication skills
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Benefits: Tips, relaxed environment, social interaction
3. Retail Sales Assistant
Shops and malls hire part time assistants to help customers, manage stock, and handle sales.
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Salary: R$ 1,300 – R$ 2,000 monthly
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Requirements: Friendly attitude, Portuguese skills useful
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Benefits: Employee discounts, fixed schedules
4. Administrative Assistant
Some companies offer part time admin jobs such as data entry, reception, and office support.
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Salary: R$ 1,500 – R$ 2,500 monthly
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Requirements: Computer skills, basic Portuguese, organized
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Benefits: Professional experience, office environment
5. Freelancer in Digital Skills
Students with skills in graphic design, writing, translation, or social media management can find freelance work online or with local clients.
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Salary: Varies widely, R$ 30–100+ per hour
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Requirements: Specific skills, portfolio of work
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Benefits: Work from home, flexible hours
6. Restaurant Server or Waiter
Restaurants hire part time servers and waiters, especially in tourist areas and big cities.
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Salary: R$ 1,200 – R$ 1,800 monthly plus tips
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Requirements: Good customer service skills, Portuguese helpful
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Benefits: Tips can increase income, social work environment
7. Tour Guide Assistant
In tourist cities, English-speaking students can assist tour guides or work in travel agencies.
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Salary: R$ 1,500 – R$ 2,500 monthly
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Requirements: Good English and Portuguese, knowledge of local sites
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Benefits: Meet tourists, learn about Brazilian culture
8. Babysitter or Nanny
Families often hire part time babysitters or nannies, especially English-speaking ones.
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Salary: R$ 1,200 – R$ 2,000 monthly
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Requirements: Trustworthiness, childcare experience
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Benefits: Flexible hours, rewarding work
9. Delivery Rider or Driver
For students with a motorcycle or bike, delivery jobs for food or packages are in demand.
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Salary: R$ 1,200 – R$ 2,000 monthly plus tips
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Requirements: Valid driver’s license, good local knowledge
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Benefits: Flexible schedules, extra income from tips
10. Event Staff or Promoter
Part time work at events, fairs, or promotions is available in major cities.
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Salary: R$ 20–40 per hour
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Requirements: Outgoing personality, basic Portuguese
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Benefits: Short-term jobs, social interaction
Summary Table: Part Time Jobs for Foreign Students in Brazil 2025
| Job Title | Average Salary (R$) | Key Skills Required | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Teacher/Tutor | 20–50 per hour | Fluent English, teaching | Flexible hours, remote work |
| Barista/Café Worker | 1,200 – 1,800 | Customer service, Portuguese | Tips, social work environment |
| Retail Sales Assistant | 1,300 – 2,000 | Communication, Portuguese | Discounts, fixed schedule |
| Administrative Assistant | 1,500 – 2,500 | Computer, organization | Professional experience |
| Freelancer (Digital) | Varies widely | Graphic design, writing | Flexible hours, remote work |
| Restaurant Server | 1,200 – 1,800 + tips | Customer service | Tips, social environment |
| Tour Guide Assistant | 1,500 – 2,500 | Language, local knowledge | Cultural experience |
| Babysitter/Nanny | 1,200 – 2,000 | Childcare | Flexible hours |
| Delivery Rider | 1,200 – 2,000 + tips | Driving skills, local knowledge | Flexible, tips |
| Event Staff/Promoter | 20–40 per hour | Outgoing, Portuguese | Short term jobs |
How to Find Part Time Jobs in Brazil as a Foreign Student
1. University Career Centers
Most Brazilian universities have career services and job boards for students. Check for part time job listings or internships.
2. Online Job Portals
Popular sites like Indeed Brazil, InfoJobs, and LinkedIn post part time opportunities suitable for students.
3. Networking
Join student groups, social clubs, and LinkedIn groups to connect with employers and other students sharing job leads.
4. Direct Applications
Visit local shops, cafés, or offices in person to ask about part time vacancies.
5. Social Media
Follow companies and recruitment pages on Facebook and Instagram where employers post job ads.
Important Tips for Foreign Students Working Part Time in Brazil
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Learn Portuguese: Even basic skills improve your chances of finding better jobs.
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Understand Labor Laws: Know your rights regarding hours, pay, and contracts.
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Balance Work and Study: Keep your academic priorities first to avoid stress.
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Build Your Resume: List part time jobs and skills gained for future career growth.
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Stay Legal: Always work under authorized contracts to avoid visa problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can foreign students work part time in Brazil legally?
Yes, with a valid student visa and work permit, students can work up to 20 hours per week during school terms.
2. What is the average pay for part time jobs for students?
Pay ranges from R$ 1,200 to R$ 2,500 per month, depending on the job and location.
3. Do I need to speak Portuguese?
Basic Portuguese is highly recommended and often required for most jobs.
4. Are there remote part time jobs available?
Yes, freelancing in digital skills like writing or design can be done remotely.
5. How do I get a work permit as a foreign student?
Your university and employer must help apply for the official work authorization.
6. Can I work full time during holidays?
Yes, students can work full time during official vacation periods.
7. What are the best cities for part time student jobs?
São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, and Florianópolis have the most opportunities.
8. Are tips common in part time jobs?
Yes, especially in restaurants and cafés, tips can significantly boost income.
Conclusion: Best Part Time Jobs in Brazil for Foreign Students in 2025
Foreign students in Brazil have many opportunities to work part time while studying. The best jobs offer flexible hours, decent pay, and valuable work experience. To succeed, students must follow legal requirements, improve language skills, and network actively.
Start your job search early, use university resources, and explore different roles to find what fits your skills and schedule. Working part time can greatly enhance your study abroad experience in Brazil, both financially and personally.