Moving to Florianópolis: The Ultimate Guide for Expats and Newcomers

Chris
Jan 21
3 min read

Updated: Apr 27

Florianópolis, often referred to as “Floripa,” is a dream destination for many. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life, the island has become a hotspot for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. Planning your move to this tropical paradise? Here's everything you need to know to make your transition smooth and enjoyable.

Preparing for Your Move

Take the below information with caution. These are just indicators that you should double check with your local authorities and the Brazilian embassies or consulates in your home country to get the most accurate and reliable information.

Visa Requirements

Tourist Visa: Most visitors can stay up to 90 days, with the option to extend for another 90 days.
Digital Nomad Visa: Brazil offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers, allowing you to stay for one year, renewable for another year.
Permanent Residency: Options include family reunification, marriage to a Brazilian citizen, or investment in Brazil.

Documents You’ll Need

Valid passport.
Proof of income (especially for the digital nomad visa).
Health insurance covering your stay.

Choosing Where to Live in Florianópolis

Floripa has 60+ neighbourhoods, each with its own charm. Here are some popular areas to consider:

Centro

Best For: Urban living, convenience, and access to businesses.
Highlights: Shopping malls, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife.

Lagoa da Conceição

Best For: Active lifestyle and digital nomads.
Highlights: Surrounded by the lagoon, this area is perfect for water sports and has a lively café scene.

Campeche

Best For: Beach lovers and families.
Highlights: Stunning beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and proximity to the airport.

Ingleses

Best For: Budget-friendly living and expat communities.
Highlights: A tourist-friendly neighborhood with great amenities and a vibrant beach culture.

Jurerê Internacional

Best For: Luxury living and nightlife.
Highlights: High-end restaurants, bars, and exclusive beach clubs.

Cachoeira do Bom Jesus

Best For: Families and retirees.
Highlights: Quiet beaches and a slower pace of life.

Finding Accommodation

Short-Term Rentals

Use platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo for temporary stays while you search for long-term options.
Pro Tip: Book in advance during high season (December–March) as prices soar.

Long-Term Rentals

Popular websites: OLX, QuintoAndar, and VivaReal.
Tips:
- Visit the property in person before signing a lease.
- Negotiate the price, especially during the low season.

Buying Property

Expats can purchase property in Brazil without restrictions.
Consider hiring a local real estate agent to navigate legal procedures.

Setting Up Utilities and Services

Utilities

Electricity: CELESC is the main provider.
Internet: Providers like Vivo, Oi, and Claro offer high-speed plans.

Banking

You can check to open a local bank account with Banco do Brasil, Itaú, or Bradesco. If you need a bank account as a non resident, try Santander Select - that worked out for us.
For international transfers, we use services like Wise or Revolut.

Healthcare

Public System: SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) is free but may have long wait times.
Private Insurance: Recommended for faster and higher-quality care. Popular providers include Unimed and Amil.

Transportation Options

Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring the island. Be aware of narrow roads in some areas.
Public Buses: Extensive network but may be crowded during peak times.
Bicycles: Many neighborhoods are bike-friendly, and paths are improving.
Ride-Sharing: Uber and 99 are reliable and widely available.

Cost of Living in Florianópolis

Housing: $500–$1,500/month depending on location and size.
Food: Dining out is affordable, with meals ranging from $5 at local eateries to $30 at upscale restaurants.
Transportation: Public transport costs about $1 per ride, while fuel averages $1.20/liter.
Entertainment: Beaches and hiking are free, but nightlife and events can add up.

Getting Connected

Networking

Join expat groups on Facebook or Meetup.
Co-working spaces are great places to meet like-minded professionals.

Language

Learning Portuguese is highly recommended for smoother integration.
Apps like Duolingo or local language schools can help.

Things to Know Before Moving

Weather: Summers (December–March) are hot and humid, while winters are mild.
High Season: During summer, the island gets crowded with tourists, and traffic can be intense.
Cultural Etiquette: Brazilians are warm and friendly; a simple smile and "bom dia" (good morning) go a long way.

Planning your move to Florianópolis? Whether you're a digital nomad, retiree, or simply looking for a new adventure, Floripa offers a unique blend of lifestyle and opportunities. Have questions or tips to share? Drop a comment below or subscribe for more insider tips!