Working Remotely from Brazil for Global Companies
Timezone challenges, cultural differences, and why São Paulo is becoming a tech hub.
remote-workcareerbrazil
Four years of remote work. Three different time zones. Zero regrets.
The timezone reality
Brazil (UTC-3) is actually great for global work:
- US East Coast: Only 2 hours ahead in summer
- Europe: Morning overlap works perfectly
- US West Coast: Challenging, but doable with early starts
What surprised me
Brazilian developers are highly valued internationally. We bring:
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Cost-effectiveness (for companies, not for us!)
- Cultural adaptability
- English proficiency is rising fast
Challenges nobody warns you about
- Banking — receiving USD is still complicated
- Taxes — you need a good accountant
- Isolation — working async can get lonely
- Local salary expectations — once you go international, it's hard to go back
My setup
- Dedicated home office (non-negotiable)
- Fiber internet with 4G backup
- Standing desk + ergonomic chair
- Coffee. Lots of coffee.
Remote work changed my life. But it takes discipline and intentionality to make it work long-term.