Is Brazil Safe for Expats?
Brazil is a stunning country, known for its beaches, culture, and warm people. But for many expats and travelers, safety is a top concern. Stories of crime, scams, and dangerous neighborhoods often overshadow the country’s beauty.
So, how safe is Brazil really for expats?
The truth is, safety in Brazil depends on where you are, how you behave, and the precautions you take. While crime does exist, knowing where to go, what to avoid, and how to stay alert can help you live safely and enjoy your experience in Brazil.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✔️ The real safety situation in Brazil 🌎
✔️ The safest & most dangerous cities 🚦
✔️ Common scams & crimes to avoid 🚨
✔️ Safety tips for living & traveling in Brazil 🛡
Let’s separate facts from fear and dive into the truth about safety in Brazil. 🇧🇷
1. Is Brazil Really That Dangerous? Understanding Crime in Brazil
Brazil has high crime rates, but most crimes are preventable if you know what to watch out for.
📊 Crime in Brazil (2025 Data)
✔️ Brazil has a high rate of petty crime (pickpocketing, scams).
✔️ Violent crime is mostly concentrated in specific areas.
✔️ Tourists & expats are rarely targeted by violent crime if they take precautions.
💡 Key Takeaway: Most crime happens in low income neighborhoods (favelas) and late at night—avoiding these risks dramatically increases your safety.
2. Safest & Most Dangerous Cities in Brazil 🚦
Not all Brazilian cities are dangerous—some are incredibly safe for expats.
🏆 Safest Cities in Brazil for Expats
✅ Florianópolis – Low crime, island paradise, great expat community.
✅ Curitiba – Clean, modern, and one of Brazil’s safest cities.
✅ Brasília – Government hub, high security, and safe neighborhoods.
✅ Belo Horizonte – Strong economy, safe areas, and good infrastructure.
💡 Best Tip: Stick to the safer neighborhoods in each city (e.g., Ipanema in Rio, Jardins in São Paulo).
🚨 Most Dangerous Cities in Brazil (For Crime & Theft)
❌ Fortaleza – High rates of armed robbery, especially at night.
❌ Salvador – Beautiful, but known for street crime in tourist areas.
❌ Rio de Janeiro – Has both safe and dangerous areas (avoid favelas).
❌ Manaus – Pickpocketing & tourist scams are common.
💡 Avoid high-risk areas, especially at night.
3. Common Scams & Crimes Expats Should Watch For 🚨
1️⃣ Pickpocketing & Phone Theft (Most Common Crime!)
📍 Happens in public transport, beaches, and crowded areas.
✅ How to Avoid: Keep your phone & wallet hidden, use a money belt, and never leave belongings unattended.
2️⃣ Fake ATM Scams & Card Skimming
📍 Happens in ATMs at gas stations, airports, and tourist areas.
✅ How to Avoid: Use bank ATMs inside malls or official bank branches.
3️⃣ Taxi & Uber Scams
📍 Some drivers take longer routes or overcharge tourists.
✅ How to Avoid: Use Uber or official taxis (99 App is a great alternative).
4️⃣ Express Kidnapping (Rare but Serious)
📍 Criminals force victims to withdraw money from ATMs.
✅ How to Avoid: Never flash expensive items, and avoid walking alone at night.
💡 Key Takeaway: Most crime is opportunistic—staying alert and avoiding risky areas reduces your chances of being a victim.
4. Top Safety Tips for Expats in Brazil 🛡
Even in big cities like São Paulo & Rio, you can stay safe by following these simple rules:
🕶️ 1. Keep a Low Profile
✅ Don’t wear expensive jewelry or watches.
✅ Don’t flash cash, phones, or cameras in public.
✅ Dress like a local (casual, simple clothing).
🚖 2. Use Safe Transportation
✅ Uber is safer than street taxis—always use the app.
✅ Avoid walking alone at night, even in “safe” areas.
✅ On public transport, stay alert & keep your bag in front of you.
🏠 3. Choose a Safe Place to Live
✅ Best neighborhoods in major cities:
- Rio de Janeiro: Ipanema, Leblon, Botafogo.
- São Paulo: Jardins, Vila Madalena, Moema.
- Salvador: Rio Vermelho, Pituba.
🌃 4. Avoid Favelas & Dangerous Areas
❌ Do NOT enter favelas unless on a guided tour.
❌ Avoid deserted areas after dark.
💡 Best Tip: If lost, enter a store or hotel to ask for directions instead of wandering.
📱 5. Emergency Numbers & Contacts
✔️ Police (Polícia Militar): 190
✔️ Ambulance (SAMU): 192
✔️ Tourist Police in Rio (DEAT): +55 21 2332-2924
💡 Save these numbers in your phone before arriving in Brazil!
5. Final Thoughts: Can Expats Live Safely in Brazil?
Brazil has some risks, but most crime is avoidable if you stay in safe areas and take basic precautions.
🏆 Quick Recap: How to Stay Safe in Brazil
✔️ Choose safe cities & neighborhoods – Florianópolis, Curitiba, Brasília.
✔️ Avoid tourist scams & petty theft – Keep valuables hidden.
✔️ Use Uber instead of taxis – Safer & cheaper.
✔️ Stay away from favelas – Unless on an official tour.
✔️ Be cautious at night – Stick to well-lit, populated areas.
