In recent years, the number of Brazilians leaving their home country to settle in the United States—particularly in Florida—has seen a steady rise. Faced with a national backdrop of public insecurity, economic instability, and legal uncertainty, more families and business owners are seeking a better quality of life, safety, and opportunity in the Sunshine State. What was once a migration driven by a narrow segment of the Brazilian population has now expanded significantly, with entrepreneurs from various industries leading this movement.
In Brazil, daily life is marked by high levels of violence. The pervasive sense of insecurity affects not only large cities but also medium-sized towns, creating an environment where the population is constantly on guard. A recent survey revealed that over 70% of Brazilians fear for their safety, which directly impacts life decisions and family planning. Another study shows that 82% of young people would move to another country if given the opportunity. Adding to this is the volatility of the legal environment and economic instability fueled by frequent changes in tax policies and the legal system. This amplifies the uncertainty, especially for entrepreneurs looking to safeguard their assets and explore new avenues for growth.
Florida has become the preferred destination for these Brazilians. Beyond the familiar climate for those hailing from warmer regions like southeastern or northeastern Brazil, the state offers a strong infrastructure and a relatively affordable cost of living when compared to other major U.S. urban centers. For business owners, the absence of a state income tax is an undeniable draw. On the family side, Florida’s public education system, often ranked among the best in the nation, makes the move even more appealing for those seeking better academic opportunities for their children.
At the heart of this migration wave lies Florida’s booming real estate market. In recent years, property values in the state have seen a significant surge, driven by the growing demand from international buyers who, like many Brazilians, view real estate as a solid and lucrative investment. According to industry data, the average home price in Florida has risen by over 28% in the past three years. Cities such as Miami, Orlando, and Tampa are the epicenters of this growth, offering prime opportunities for those looking to purchase a home or invest in vacation rentals.
“In the past, I thought it would be complicated to invest in real estate here in the U.S. Today, I own several investment properties, and my Brazilian clients purchase their homes, signing contracts via webcam with complete security and ease. What attracts investors the most is the ability to benefit from full property appreciation, having invested only 25% down,” explains Maqueli Florida, a real estate agent who has sold over 70 million reais (approximately $14 million USD) in properties to Brazilians in just the first half of this year.
Florida, which welcomes more than 100 million tourists annually, remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. This constant flow of visitors further bolsters the short-term rental market, providing an additional revenue stream for those who invest in the area. Tourism, combined with population growth, ensures that the state’s real estate market continues to appreciate, making property purchases a secure and promising long-term investment.
Amid this landscape, a group of Brazilian experts—each licensed in Florida—has launched the “Hora de Imigrar” project. This initiative offers free initial consultations to families interested in relocating to the U.S., guiding them through every step of the process, from visa acquisition to property purchases. These specialists are deeply involved in planning, providing a comprehensive view of the opportunities and challenges that come with such a move, and helping families prepare for this new chapter in their lives.
“When Brazilian entrepreneurs understand the landscape and investment opportunities here in the U.S., their mindset shifts. For those who have succeeded in Brazil, investing in the world’s largest economy, with a strong currency and numerous financial incentives, opens up endless possibilities,” says Gustavo Prezia, President of LIDE ORLANDO, one of the largest organizations supporting Brazilian entrepreneurs worldwide and a partner of the “Hora de Imigrar” project.
For many families, the move to Florida represents more than just a change of address. It’s a pursuit of a safer life, real opportunities for growth, and a sense of stability that, sadly, has become rare in Brazil. The chance to offer children access to a high-quality public education system, live in a place where safety is a given, and invest in a rapidly growing real estate market paints Florida as a land of promise for many Brazilians.
“Learning or improving English is undoubtedly a great challenge, but the essential point of this process is true immersion in the local culture. The F-1 student visa provides exactly that to our students. They have the opportunity to live in the United States while studying English, which includes experiences like driving, renting a house, and temporarily experiencing the American lifestyle with their family”, explains Emilio Dias, CEO of MILA International Language Academy.
The “Hora de Imigrar” project is a response to the doubts and uncertainties that many face when considering this life-changing move. The free initial consultations help families better understand the process, the available opportunities, and the safest paths for those looking to invest and build a life in the United States.
“There are many types of visas that people aren’t aware of, which is why having a personalized and thorough analysis is crucial,” explains André Linhares, an immigration attorney and founder of Linhares Law.
Florida’s continued real estate appreciation, favorable climate, and security make it an increasingly attractive destination for Brazilian business owners and families. And all signs point to this trend continuing, driven by the unrelenting search for better living conditions and a more prosperous future.