How to Find and Hire Software Developers In Brazil

For the past few years, Latin America has been one of the largest exporters of global tech expertise. In 2022, the number of companies that hired tech experts from Latin America grew by more than 156%. When you break down the recruitment of tech experts by country, it’s clear that Brazil is at the top of the list. 

Brazil has remained one of the top locations to hire software developers and other tech experts. However, if you’ve never hired developers in Brazil, you may be unfamiliar with the process. It can be a hassle to navigate the long list of software engineers here, as well as to study how local labor laws affect the hiring process. 

Why Should You Hire Software Developers in Brazil?

If you’re interested in hiring skilled software developers for your business, Brazil is filled with qualified experts. There are a few reasons that make this location one of the best places to look for skilled software developers. 

To start with, software development has gained a strong presence in Brazil. According to a report by ABES (Brazilian Software Association), Brazil’s IT sector represented $50.7 billion in revenue in 2020, accounting for approximately 40% of the entire Latin American market. The software and IT services sector alone experienced a 9.8% increase in investments, with cloud-based services leading the charge. This expansion is largely a result of an evolving startup ecosystem, growing investments in infrastructure, and the demand for digital transformation across industries such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce.

Brazil’s commitment to developing its IT infrastructure and nurturing tech talent has also positioned the country as a nearshoring destination for North American companies, seeking proximity and a growing talent pool. With over 500,000 IT professionals and a robust education system producing skilled graduates annually, Brazil is increasingly important to global tech outsourcing and software development. 

Brazil has also experienced notable growth in its Information Technology (IT) sector, with an 8.34% annual growth rate in recent years, positioning the country as a prominent player in Latin America’s tech industry. This growth is driven by increasing digital transformation initiatives, the rise of cloud computing, and the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) across various industries. Brazil’s tech landscape is supported by both government initiatives and private sector investments, making it a hub for innovation and development.

What Are the Key Tech Hubs in Brazil?

As mentioned earlier, Brazil is popular for its software development services. Hence, you’ll find several tech hubs designed to help people master key software development skills, and ensure local and foreign companies can easily identify the best talent in the region. These tech hubs also feature laws that support the growth of companies in innovative sectors, such as biotech, IT, software development, etc. If you’re interested in offshore software in Brazil, the popular tech hubs available to you include: 

• São Paulo: São Paulo stands as Brazil’s largest tech hub, hosting a significant portion of the country’s tech startups and multinational tech companies. The city contributes heavily to the IT sector, with a focus on fintech, software development, and e-commerce. Tech giants like Google and Amazon have their Latin American headquarters here, alongside an influx of Brazilian unicorn startups like Nubank.
• Rio de Janeiro: Known primarily for tourism and energy, Rio de Janeiro is also developing a thriving tech ecosystem, especially in media, entertainment technology, and cybersecurity. The city benefits from the presence of research institutions and universities that contribute to tech talent growth.
• Belo Horizonte: Belo Horizonte has emerged as an important technology hub, particularly through its San Pedro Valley. This city is home to several successful startups and incubators, promoting innovations in AI, blockchain, and data analytics.
• Porto Alegre: Porto Alegre’s tech scene is bolstered by its strong IT infrastructure and a vibrant startup culture. The city has a growing focus on software as a service (SaaS) and has been home to innovation centers, tech parks, and universities pushing digital transformation initiatives.

How Affordable is it to Hire Software Developers?

The level of competition of software developers in Brazil is high. This intense competition makes it impossible for anyone to set arbitrary prices for their services. It is also considerably cheaper to become a software developer in this region. So, anyone interested in hiring from this region will benefit from the competitive pricing of different developers. 

The cost-effectiveness of hiring a software developer from Brazil is also evident in the favorable exchange rate between the US Dollar and Brazilian Real. The average salary of a Brazilian software developer is about USD 82,600 annually. It’s cheaper than hiring US software developers who charge as high as USD 136,000 annually. 

For companies evaluating hiring options, Brazil offers competitive software developer salaries compared to the United States. For example, the average monthly salary for a senior software developer in Brazil is around USD 3,500, whereas the equivalent position in the U.S. can easily exceed USD 8,000 per month for a JavaScript or Python developer. This substantial difference demonstrates the “affordable software development rates in Brazil,” making it an attractive market for cost-effective talent acquisition. In comparison, Ukraine, another popular outsourcing destination, offers average salaries for software developers that fall between Brazil and the U.S., positioning both as strong alternatives for budget-conscious hiring.

It’s safe to say that Brazil is the largest tech talent pool which also makes it a powerful hiring market, with Java, JavaScript, and Python ranking among the most popular programming languages in demand. In addition, cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro serve as major tech hubs, supporting a vibrant ecosystem of developers proficient in these technologies. This robust talent pipeline is supported by Brazil’s strong tech education foundation, which produces a steady stream of qualified developers, further lowering hiring costs compared to the U.S. while providing skilled candidates ready to work with international clients.

In summary, Brazil presents an advantageous option for businesses aiming to reduce development costs while accessing high-quality software development capabilities.

What is the Retention Rate for Software Developers in Brazil?

Another reason to hire developers in Brazil is the region’s high talent retention rate. Unlike countries where developers are prone to switching jobs, Brazilians have a sense of loyalty instilled in them. As a result, there’s a sense of stability in the country’s software development ecosystem. Companies are more likely to work with the same developers till the completion of their project.

The high retention rate of Brazil software developers is particularly attractive to international firms that want stable, committed talent for ongoing work rather than frequent turnover and retraining costs. However, several factors contribute to these high retention rates, including Brazil’s less saturated developer market compared to other regions like Southeast Asia. This high retention rate means developers are more likely to remain in their roles long-term, reducing the attrition that often disrupts.

For example, US and European companies benefit from hiring Brazilian developers who tend to stay with companies over the years, fostering better team dynamics and deepening their understanding of company-specific needs and workflows. This stability is advantageous in high-demand tech fields such as fintech, e-commerce, and enterprise software development, where consistent knowledge transfer and long-term project oversight are critical to success. 

Additionally, Brazil’s robust IT infrastructure, combined with an expanding pool of skilled developers, supports this trend with tech parks and educational institutions in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro producing a steady stream of proficient developers eager to enter the workforce. The well-developed infrastructure in this region encourages developers to see foreign companies as long-term partners, aligning their career goals with stable employment in challenging, rewarding roles. For international companies, the combination of cost-effectiveness and low turnover makes hiring from Brazil a strategically advantageous choice in the global IT landscape. 

The high retention of Brazilian developers in foreign roles not only ensures project continuity but also allows companies to save time and resources that would otherwise go into hiring and onboarding new employees frequently. This retention factor, alongside affordability and robust tech expertise, strengthens Brazil’s position as a nearshore IT outsourcing hub.

How Does Brazil’s Tech Ecosystem Support Software Developers?

Brazil also excels as a top location for software developers because the region has a supportive infrastructure for these tech experts. Brazil’s tech and innovation centres will ensure that these individuals who are skilled at Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Web Development, Mobile Development, Programming languages, etc. can collaborate and share ideas on the latest technological advancements. Hence, projects are tackled faster and more effectively. Yes, there’s a heavy presence of software developers locally and these experts enjoy favorable work conditions.

How Fluent Are Brazil’s Software Developers in English?

While Brazil’s lingua franca is Portuguese, Brazil software developers are fluent in English. Many of these IT experts can speak enough English to work for an English-speaking company. However, many of these experts can still speak the language at an elementary level. Many of these tech experts can also use software tools to translate work correspondence. 

How Strong is the Startup Ecosystem for Software Developers in Brazil?

There’s a growing number of Brazilian startups that employ software developers. The top 277 Brazilian custom software development companies are either small or midsize. Brazil also has more than 30 large software companies that each employ more than 10,000 workers. Furthermore, US startups constantly hire developers from this region to support their in-house projects. 

What is the IT Talent Pool Like in Brazil?

There’s no gain in saying that Brazil has the largest tech pool in Latin America. Let’s look at the facts that backup this claim. 

Popular software services in Brazil include Mobile Application Development, Web Development, and UI/UX design. These developers are also experts in other fields such as Cloud Services, AI development, Big Data, IoT development and Blockchain technology. If you need someone to write a programming language for you in Brazil, there are a plethora of them available. You’ll find 24,000 JavaScript developers, 34,000 Java developers, 13.000 Python developers, 169,000 C++ developers and 15,000 PHP developers. 

Another interesting statistic about Brazil’s talent pool is that the region ranks third highest among LATAM countries in Coursera. These developers have the highest scores in Data Science (99%) and are well-represented in technology skills too (87%). 

Despite the positives of Brazil’s tech talent pool, it’s exciting to find that more software developers are joining the long list of experts annually. Every year, more than 46,000 graduates join Brazil’s ICT sector. This country has about 2,457 higher institutions dedicated to training graduates in fields such as software development, computer science, and information systems. In fact, five of these institutions feature in Latin America’s top 30 QS rankings for 2023.

A good number of Brazilian software developers are also fluent in English. A research by EliteBrains revealed that Brazilian software engineers and developers had enough proficiency in English to work for English-speaking companies. However, there are several developers that can only speak English at a basic level while others can only read and write. 

What Are the Most Popular Programming Languages in Brazil? 

Based on the information in this piece, it’s safe to say that Brazil has the largest tech tech talent pool, boasting a significant number of professionals skilled in various programming languages. The country’s growing IT sector, supported by its dynamic startup ecosystem, has led to a demand for developers proficient in languages that are central to both web and mobile development. The following is a list of programming languages popularly used by Brazil developers: 

• Java: Java remains one of the most widely used programming languages in Brazil, especially in large-scale enterprise applications. Due to its robustness and scalability, Java is popular in sectors like banking, telecommunications, and e-commerce. According to reports, Java is a top skill for Brazilian developers working with back-end systems, which is crucial for high-traffic applications and data processing. Large Brazilian companies like Nubank utilize Java extensively for their back-end systems.
• Python: Python is growing rapidly in Brazil due to its versatility and ease of use. It’s widely used for web development, data science, and machine learning applications. Brazil’s vibrant fintech and artificial intelligence industries rely heavily on Python for automating tasks, developing algorithms, and building scalable applications. According to Stack Overflow’s Developer Survey, Python is one of the fastest-growing programming languages in Brazil, driven by the rise of data-driven technologies and cloud computing.
• JavaScript: JavaScript is essential for front-end development and full-stack applications, making it one of the most popular languages in Brazil’s tech industry. As companies increasingly adopt React.js and Node.js, the demand for JavaScript developers continues to grow. The language’s importance in building interactive user interfaces has cemented its place as a key skill in Brazil’s tech community, particularly for startups that focus on web-based applications.
• PHP and Ruby: PHP, known for its use in web development, and Ruby, particularly with the Ruby on Rails framework, are also popular among developers in Brazil. PHP powers many websites, and Ruby is often employed by Brazilian startups to build scalable web applications quickly. While both languages have seen more competition from newer frameworks and languages, they remain staples in Brazil’s startup ecosystem.
• SQL: SQL is another fundamental language, especially with Brazil’s large enterprise applications and data systems. Database management skills are essential for managing Brazil’s growing data infrastructure across industries like retail and telecommunications.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Hiring Software Developers in Brazil?

When it comes to software development, Brazil has a high ranking compared to other countries. However, what merits or demerits exist from hiring software developers from this region? Take a look: 

What Are the Best Methods to Hire Software Developers in Brazil?

We’ve mentioned earlier that hiring software developers in Brazil is a complex process. Now let’s discuss efficient ways to hire software developers in Brazil with little or no hassle. Here are a few methods to try: 

• Engage Freelance Experts: If you want to hire a software developer without a contractual agreement, you can use freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr and Freelancer. All you have to do is post your project, interview the top offers and collaborate directly with the developer. Freelance platforms offer more flexibility and scalability for projects. 
• Use Recruitment Agencies: Another efficient method to try is to hire recruitment agencies to do the heavy lifting for you. They will streamline the process and present you with a list of the most qualified candidates. All you have to do is choose. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the hiring process, hire Globy to connect you to reliable labor recruitment agencies that will provide you with plenty of talent. 
• Collaborate with Outsourcing Vendors: This method will give you access to a vast team of skilled developers. These goers will manage the recruitment, and onboarding of developers, allowing you to focus on crucial aspects of business while leveraging the best talent simultaneously. 
• Collaborate with Employer of Record (EOR): This method is an effective way for small, medium and large-scale enterprizes to hire a software developer. It involves working with a hiring agency to build a software development team according to your needs. An EOR is also capable of handling all aspects of the recruitment in compliance with local laws. This method also allows you to onboard developers efficiently without slowing down your operations. If you’re struggling to find an EOR, let Globy help you. At Globy, you’ll find a vast network of recruitment, compliance and payroll burdens to ease your administrative burden.

Further reading: Hiring Remote Employees in Brazil and How to Hire Independent Contractors in Brazil

What Are the Best Platforms to Hire Brazilian Software Developers

Let’s say you’ve learnt all the methods above and are interested in the best platforms to hire Brazilian software developers, where do you look? When searching for the best platforms to hire Brazilian developers, there are several top choices that offer access to Brazil’s large and skilled talent pool. Below are some of the best platforms to hire developers in Brazil, including both freelance and dedicated team options.

Upwork

Upwork is one of the largest freelance platforms globally, providing access to a wide variety of developers, including many from Brazil. The platform allows businesses to post job listings, view developer profiles, and manage projects securely. You can find Brazilian software developers skilled in languages like Java, Python, and JavaScript, making Upwork one of the best platforms to hire Brazilian developers for short-term projects or contract work.

Freelancer

Another widely used freelance marketplace, Freelancer, offers a diverse selection of Brazilian developers. Like Upwork, Freelancer enables businesses to post projects and receive bids from developers, including those specializing in full-stack development, mobile app creation, and web development. The competitive bidding system also helps employers find the right fit for their budget and project requirements.

Mobilunity

For companies seeking dedicated teams or long-term engagements, Mobilunity is a standout option. Mobilunity focuses on building dedicated developer teams, making it ideal for businesses looking to hire full-time Brazilian developers for large-scale projects or ongoing software development. The platform is known for its thorough vetting process, ensuring that businesses are matched with highly qualified professionals.

Globy

Globy is a great solution for US companies looking to hire software developers in Brazil. This platform is renowned for its deep knowledge of the Latin American labor system allowing it to connect foreign employers with vetted talent. By partnering with Globy, you’ll be able to easily navigate hiring Brazilian developers while navigating the pitfalls of the process. 

Our full list of services include hiring, validating, recruiting, paying, equipping and rewarding foreign developers. We have a team of experts that’ll help ease your burden, whether you wish to augment your staff with remote full-time staff or contractors or plan to expand and localize your operations. 

These platforms provide different approaches to hiring Brazilian developers, from short-term freelance work to long-term dedicated teams, allowing businesses to tap into Brazil’s growing tech talent pool.

What Technical Skills Do Software Developers in Brazil Have?

Brazilian software developers are known for their expertise in a diverse range of technical skills, making them highly attractive to both local and international employers. Brazilian developers often excel in languages such as Java, JavaScript, Python, and C#, as well as in widely used frameworks and libraries associated with these languages, like React for JavaScript and Django for Python. These competencies are reflective of the nation’s tech education focus and the demands of Brazil’s growing IT industry.

Java and JavaScript Expertise

A high proportion of Brazilian developers have strong skills in Java and JavaScript. According to the 2022 Stack Overflow Developer Survey, JavaScript is the most popular programming language among Brazilian developers, mirroring global trends. Java, on the other hand, remains a top choice for backend development, particularly in large-scale enterprise solutions within industries like finance and telecommunications in Brazil.

Python Proficiency

Python has also gained popularity among Brazilian developers, primarily due to its applications in data science, machine learning, and automation. As Brazil’s tech industry increasingly embraces artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, the demand for Python skills has grown. According to a 2021 survey by DevSkiller, Python ranks as one of the most in-demand skills for Brazilian developers, especially within emerging tech companies and startups.

Frontend and Backend Development Skills

Brazilian developers often demonstrate strong capabilities in full-stack development, which includes not only frontend technologies like HTML, CSS, and React, but also backend frameworks such as Node.js and Ruby on Rails. Brazilian startups and tech hubs have emphasized React for building scalable, responsive web applications, reflecting a modern tech stack suitable for dynamic web solutions.

Database and Cloud Computing Knowledge

For database management, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB are popular among Brazilian developers. Additionally, with the rise of cloud computing, many Brazilian developers are skilled in platforms like AWS and Microsoft Azure, which are crucial for deploying scalable applications.

What Are the Top Universities For Brazilian Software Developers?

The technical proficiency of Brazilian developers is due to their Brazil’s talent pool benefits from top-notch institutions like the University of Sao Paulo, Estacio de sa University, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, University of Brasilia and Federal University of Rio De Janeiro that train graduates in computer science, engineering, etc. There are also cutting-edge tech hubs in Recife where software developers in Brazil receive world-class education and training. 

As a result, tech education in Brazil has been rapidly advancing, producing a steady flow of skilled professionals. The country’s renowned universities, alongside its dynamic tech hubs, play a pivotal role in developing Brazilian software developer skills and fueling innovation in the tech sector.

Brazil’s top universities consistently rank as leaders in Latin America, offering robust programs in software engineering, computer science, and related fields. The most notable institutions in this region include:

• University of São Paulo (USP) – Often ranked as Brazil’s best university, USP is renowned for its programs in computer science and engineering, drawing in tech-focused students from across the country. The university’s emphasis on research and industry partnerships provides students with a strong foundation in research 🔬 both theoretical and practical aspects of technology.
• Campinas State University (Unicamp) – Located in Campinas, Unicamp is a hub for STEM fields, producing many graduates with expertise in programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++. The university’s focus on innovation has led to high levels of engagement with tech companies and start-ups in São Paulo’s tech ecosystem.
• Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) – UFRJ, known for its computing and engineering programs, is another prominent institution contributing to the nation’s tech workforce. With connections to Rio de Janeiro’s tech hubs, UFRJ graduates gain hands-on experience, which strengthens the pipeline of Brazilian software developers.

In terms of tech stack, Brazilian developers are also well-versed in a wide range of programming languages and frameworks, including Java, Python, JavaScript, and more. 

How Much Do Software Developers in Brazil Earn?

Software developers in Brazil are handsomely rewarded for their skills and expertise. According to Deels, a Junior software developer makes an average of USD 2,300 per month while a mid-level software developer makes USD 5,400 per month. However, senior software developers make an average of USD 6,900 per month. The figures may vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and specialization.

In terms of domain, the best-paid software developers are DevOps engineers at USD 6,000 per month. Following closely are data scientists, game developers and iOS engineers who earn USD 5,800, USD 2,900 and USD 9,500 per month respectively. 

But it’s not just about the paycheck. Brazilian software developers also enjoy a range of benefits and perks, including flexible work arrangements, opportunities for professional development, and a vibrant tech community that fosters collaboration and networking.

How to Navigate the Software Development Market in Brazil?

Brazil has excelled as one of the countries with the most software developers because of its supportive tech infrastructure. São Paulo is one of the vibrant tech hubs in the region. Popular tech stacks in São Paulo focus on Python, Java and JavaScript. This city is home to 2,700 tech startups with a GDP higher than the economies of Bolivia, Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay. Some of the government incentives that have benefited Brazilian software developers here include cybersecurity initiatives, startup support and an AI bill. 

As of September 2021, the Brazilian Tech market boasted more than 1.2 million employees. However, 630,000 of these people worked in IT while 133,000 were qualified to participate in the software market. Furthermore, Brazil also boasts 500,000 IT professionals working offshore. 

According to Kearney Global Services Location Index 2023, this region is also ranked as the 4th best for IT outsourcing in terms of business environment, technical skills and availability, investment climate suitability and financial attractiveness. 

Brazilian software developers have many internationally renowned achievements. For example, Brazilian developers are 14th in the TopCoder country rankings. The Coursera Global Skills Report 2023 also ranks them 14th globally in technology and 2nd in data science. Furthermore, Brazil is well represented on GitHub and is the region with the sixth-highest number of accounts on the platform, only after India, the UK, the United States, China, and Germany. 

What is the Current State of Brazil’s IT Export Market?

Brazil’s IT export market is experiencing impressive growth, with an annual rate of 8.34%, reflecting the country’s increasing role in global technology outsourcing and software development services. This growth is largely fueled by demand for Brazilian software solutions, cloud services, and tech consulting, which meet international standards and competitive pricing that appeals to foreign companies, especially from North America and Europe. The IT sector in Brazil is projected to continue expanding, driven by its emphasis on software development, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure, positioning Brazil as a leader in Latin America’s tech landscape.

São Paulo: The Heart of Brazil’s Growing IT Market

São Paulo is at the center of Brazil’s booming tech industry, hosting numerous technology companies, startups, and accelerators. The city’s infrastructure supports innovation and attracts investment from venture capitalists and tech giants. With many tech parks, co-working spaces, and incubators, São Paulo provides a fertile ground for startups and established companies alike. Major events such as the São Paulo Tech Week also bolster its reputation as a hub for IT talent and collaboration. 

The availability of skilled professionals in São Paulo, many of whom are trained in the country’s top universities, aligns with the needs of global companies, making São Paulo an attractive destination for outsourcing and tech partnerships.

What Do You Need To Know To Hire an In-house Software Developer in Brazil?

Brazilian software developers have certain unique characteristics you should be aware of before onboarding them. They include: 

• Time Zone Difference: There’s a small time zone difference between the US and Brazil which is a big plus for software companies. Brazil has four time zones. The Brazilian local time zone is two hours later than the Central Standard Time (CST) that runs through the US. However, its West UTC-5 time zone aligns with Eastern Standard Time (EST) which is also used in New York and Washington DC. West UTC-5 is one hour ahead of CST. It means teams in both countries can work closely because their time runs similarly. Over the long run, queries will be answered quicker and deadlines will be easier to meet. 
• Public Holidays in Brazil: Brazil has a long list of public holidays which you must learn to plan ahead for how they may affect work. There are about 30 holidays each year – running from January to December. These holidays include New Year’s Day, Carnival Monday, Carnival Tuesday, Carnival Wednesday, Pernambuco revolution, Good Friday, Tirantes Day, Labor Day, Corpus Cristi, and São João day. 

How to Navigate Brazil’s Taxation Laws for IT Companies?

Brazil’s tax laws are known for their complexity, creating significant challenges for companies seeking to hire Brazilian developers, particularly for foreign firms unfamiliar with local regulations. Brazil operates under a multi-layered tax system, with federal, state, and municipal taxes, which can complicate payroll and compliance for employers.

One of the main challenges is the country’s high tax burden on labor. Companies are typically required to pay a range of payroll taxes and contributions, which can amount to an additional 40-60% of an employee’s gross salary. For instance, taxes such as the FGTS (Fundo de Garantia do Tempo de Serviço), a severance fund contribution, add costs that foreign employers may not anticipate. Additional payroll taxes include the INSS (Instituto Nacional do Seguro Social), which covers social security, and certain mandatory benefits like 13th-month pay and vacation allowances. These requirements can make hiring a full-time Brazilian developer notably more expensive than developers in countries with less stringent labor costs.

Another challenge is Brazil’s complex income tax requirements for independent contractors. For foreign companies hiring developers on a freelance or contract basis, understanding how to correctly classify and report income for Brazilian freelancers to avoid legal repercussions can be daunting. Noncompliance can result in fines and penalties, emphasizing the importance of proper tax planning.

The Brazilian tax system’s intricate regulations require companies to work closely with local experts to avoid complications, helping international employers reduce risks while hiring from Brazil’s skilled developer pool.

Further reading: Employee Benefits in Brazil and Leave Policies in Brazil

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Article author

Vit Koval

Co-founder at Globy

A top Global Hiring voice on LinkedIn, co-founder of Globy, and host of Default Global. Using deep expertise in global hiring, remote work, and global business expansion to help companies excel worldwide with innovative strategies.