A number of Brazilian and international companies offer a wide range of health insurance packages. Some Brazilian banks, for example Bradesco and Unibanco, also offer health insurance.
Many Brazilian companies offer health insurance as part of a life insurance package, so it is best to check the policy carefully if only health insurance is required.
The following documents are required to obtain health insurance:
1. Passport;
2. Foreigner’s identity number (RNE);
3. Individual Tax Payers Number (CPF).
Social Security Benefits
The Brazilian Ministry of Social Welfare is responsible for implementing government policy on social welfare and organising payment of social security benefits.
There are some benefits available to foreigners in Brazil. In order to qualify, applicants must have a valid work permit and have made a certain number of contributions as required by the Ministry.
Benefits available include:
- Sickness and injury benefit;
- Maternity benefit;
- Invalidity benefit;
- Survivor/death benefit;
- Unemployment benefit.