Minimum Wage in Brazil: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Brazil?

As of January 1, 2026, Brazil’s national minimum wage is set at R$1,621.00 per month, reflecting an increase from R$1,518.00 in 2025 under the federal government’s wage adjustment policy. This increase is designed to preserve workers’ purchasing power by accounting for inflation and economic growth.

In U.S. dollar terms, this equates to approximately $310–$325 per month, depending on prevailing exchange rates, which may fluctuate over time.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in Brazil?

Brazil's minimum wage policy is designed to ensure fair compensation across various employment categories. While the federal minimum wage provides a baseline, certain states have established higher rates, and specific industries may have distinct wage standards.

Full-Time Employee Wages

If you employ full-time workers in Brazil, you must pay at least the federal minimum wage of R$1,621.00 per month as of January 1, 2026. It’s also important to note that some states set higher minimum wages for certain roles or sectors. When a state-level minimum applies, you’re required to follow the higher rate rather than the federal one.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees in Brazil are compensated proportionally based on the federal or state minimum wage, depending on their location. Their pay is calculated according to the number of hours worked relative to a full-time schedule.

Interns and Trainees

In Brazil, internships are governed by specific legislation that allows for compensation below the minimum wage, provided certain educational and training conditions are met. Trainees, on the other hand, are generally considered regular employees and are entitled to at least the minimum wage.

Expats

Expatriates working in Brazil are subject to the same labor laws as local employees. They are entitled to receive at least the federal or applicable state minimum wage, ensuring equitable treatment in the workplace.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Brazil

Brazil’s minimum wage doesn’t change at random. While there’s a national baseline set by the federal government, several factors influence how wages evolve over time and how they’re applied across different roles and industries.

From sector-specific dynamics to broader economic conditions and government policy, these elements work together to shape how the minimum wage is calculated and adjusted.

Industry-Specific Variations

Certain industries in Brazil may have higher minimum wage thresholds due to the nature of the work and demand for skilled labor. For example, sectors such as technology and finance often offer wages that exceed the minimum due to competitive pressures and specialized skill requirements.

Economic Conditions

Economic indicators such as inflation and employment levels play a major role in how Brazil’s minimum wage is adjusted. The 2026 increase to R$1,621.00 was calculated using the government’s wage-adjustment formula, which links minimum wage growth to changes in the National Consumer Price Index (INPC) and real GDP growth.

This approach is designed to ensure that minimum wage increases not only keep up with inflation but also deliver a real gain in purchasing power when economic conditions allow.

Government Policies and Legislation

The Brazilian government plays a pivotal role in setting and adjusting the minimum wage. Policies are designed to ensure that wage increases align with economic growth and inflation rates, promoting fair compensation and economic stability.

Minimum Wage History and Trends in Brazil

Brazil has a long history of regularly adjusting the minimum wage to reflect economic conditions. In 2025, the minimum wage was set at R$1,518.00, followed by a further increase to R$1,621.00 in 2026.

These adjustments reflect the government’s policy of linking minimum wage growth to inflation and economic performance, with the goal of delivering real wage gains and improving workers’ purchasing power over time.

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