Country guide

Brazil Business etiquette and meeting customs

America/Sao_Paulo

What kind of meeting?

Moderate punctuality

A few minutes late is tolerated, but let people know if you'll be later.

Meeting Culture

Recommended duration60+ min
Communication StyleWarm, expressive
Greeting StyleHandshake in business; cheek kiss socially

Daily Schedule

Work Hours09:0018:00
Breakfast07:0008:00
Lunch12:0014:00
Dinner19:0021:00
Sleep00:0007:00

Tips for Meetings

For the kind of meeting you chose above.

Dress Code

Business formal or smart casual

Tone

Warm but professional

  • ·Invest time in relationship-building before negotiations
  • ·Presentations should be engaging and personal
  • ·Brazilians value personal trust over contracts

General Tips

  • ·The meeting may start a few minutes late — but arrive on time yourself
  • ·Personal connection is more important than agenda
  • ·Physical proximity during conversation is normal
  • ·Avoid scheduling during Carnival week

Cultural Notes

  • ·Extended lunch break common
  • ·Flexible start times
  • ·Dinner (jantar) is earlier than in Spain, usually 19:00-21:00

Meeting someone from Brazil?

Find the best time

Cultural information is for general guidance only and may not reflect every individual's practices.

See something inaccurate? Let us know