Coronavirus Update for Brazil

The increase in cases of coronavirus has been causing Brazilians to change their everyday routines. In the State of São Paulo, there are over 240 confirmed cases.

Employees are working from home, and government offices and companies are reducing their hours or, in some cases, closing altogether. Schools are suspending classes; bus and metro services are spotty; and libraries, museums, and theaters are closed for 30 days.

The government of São Paulo also has restricted access to Poupatempo and Detran, public offices that issue documents like IDs and driver’s licenses. They’re focusing instead on providing “online” services.

Businesses are being affected by the changes too. For example, the Trade Board of São Paulo (JUCESP) is only filing or returning corporate documents if you have an appointment. And the Brazilian Revenue Service (Receita Federal) has canceled all scheduled appointments.

We’ve already noticed delays when trying to obtain certificates from notary offices. Clients also have experienced delays when scheduling to sign and register public deeds.

There’s some good news, however. Since Brazil is in the middle of tax season, the Receita Federal plans to postpone the deadline for income tax return filings of individuals. This should, at least, give some much-needed relief.

So how long will you have to wait until things get back to normal? Unfortunately, for now, the timeline is unknown. Just expect significant delays as more and more offices close their doors.

The situation is changing minute by minute, but we’ll do our best to keep you updated. So stay tuned.