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Business Customs Business visitors should become accustomed to several business conditions specific to Brazil. Compared to the United States and Europe, the pace of negotiation is slower and is based much more on personal contact. It is rare for important business deals to be concluded by telephone or letter. Many Brazilian executives do not react favorably to quick and infrequent visits by foreign sales representatives. They prefer a more continuous working relationship. The Brazilian buyer is also concerned with after-sales service provided by the exporter. The slower pace of business negotiations does not mean that Brazilians are less knowledgeable in terms of industrial technology or modern business practices. In fact, one should be as prepared technically when making a call on a Sao Paulo firm as on an US/European firm. In addition, a businessperson is encouraged to learn as much about the Brazilian economic and commercial environment as possible before doing business. Office Hours While office hours in Brazil are generally 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., decision-makers begin work later in the morning and stay later in the evening. The best times for calls on a Brazilian executive are between 10:00 a.m. and noon, and 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., although this is less the case for Sao Paulo where appointments are common throughout most of the day. Lunch is usually two hours. Language While many Brazilians may speak English, they may wish to conduct business in Portuguese. The non-Portuguese speaking executive may need an interpreter on more than 50 percent of business calls. Correspondence and product literature should be in Portuguese, and English is preferred as a substitute over Spanish. Specifications and other technical data should be in the metric system. Travel Advisory and Visas. A passport and visa are required for Americans traveling to Brazil for any purpose. Brazilian visas must be obtained in advance from the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate nearest the traveler’s place of residence. There are no "airport visas," and immigration authorities will refuse entry to Brazil to anyone not possessing a valid visa. U.S. Commercial or Consular officers are unable to secure relief for anyone arriving without a valid visa. Information by: International Strategies, Inc ( Jan/2003) EU-travelers may enter Brazil (3 month) without visa as long as they hold a valid passport not expiring within the next 6 months. Visa requirments may change without notice. Please check with the Brazilian Embassy in your country for current regulations or ask your Travel-Agency.
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