Starting a business in Brazil requires more than just registering your company. Whether you plan to run a restaurant, a factory, or a medical clinic, you must obtain the proper health and safety permits to legally operate. These permits are essential to ensure that your business meets Brazil’s strict public health, environmental, and occupational safety regulations.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting health and safety permits in Brazil including the sanitary permit Brazil, application processes, timelines, costs, and how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re launching a small venture or a large facility, understanding these requirements is key to starting on the right foot.
What Are Health and Safety Permits?
Health and safety permits in Brazil are official authorizations issued by local or federal authorities to certify that a business complies with hygiene, environmental, and occupational health standards. These include:
- Sanitary permits issued by Vigilância Sanitária (Sanitary Surveillance)
- Environmental licenses for businesses with environmental impact
- Company Operating Authorizations (AFE) for health-related sectors from ANVISA
- Occupational safety compliance per Normas Regulamentadoras (NRs)
Together, these permits ensure that your company’s operations don’t pose risks to public health or the environment and that employees are working under safe conditions.
Who Needs These Permits?
Nearly every business in Brazil requires some form of health and safety authorization. You will need one or more permits if your company:
- Prepares or sells food and beverages
- Operates in the pharmaceutical, medical, or cosmetic industries
- Offers dental, clinical, or veterinary services
- Manufactures goods or handles hazardous materials
- Employs staff in regulated environments (construction, industrial, etc.)
Even office-based businesses may need basic occupational safety compliance documentation under labor regulations.
Key Types of Permits
 Sanitary Permit (Sanitário)
The sanitary permit Brazil is issued by local health authorities (municipal or state level). It certifies that your facility follows hygiene, waste management, and public health standards.
 ANVISA AFE (Autorização de Funcionamento de Empresa)
If your business operates in the health products space like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food supplements, or medical devices you must apply for this permit through Brazil’s national health surveillance agency, ANVISA.
 Environmental Licenses
For businesses that impact air, water, or soil (like manufacturers or large-scale kitchens), environmental licenses are required. These are typically handled by state environmental agencies.
 Occupational Health Compliance
All businesses with employees must comply with Brazil’s Normas Regulamentadoras (NRs), which cover areas like risk assessment (NR-9), employee health monitoring (NR-7), and workplace safety equipment (NR-6).
 Step-by-Step Application Process
 1. Register Your Business
Before applying for any health or safety permits, you must register your company:
- Obtain a CNPJ from Receita Federal
- Register at the Board of Trade (Junta Comercial)
- Choose the appropriate CNAE activity codes that reflect your services
 2. Prepare Required Documentation
Typical documents include:
- Business registration (CNPJ, NIRE)
- Proof of address and property usage (rental deed, zoning permit)
- Floor plans of the facility
- Operating procedures (Standard Operating Procedures)
- Health and safety training certifications for staff
 3. Submit to the Correct Authorities
Each permit type must be submitted to a relevant authority:
- Sanitary permit: Local Sanitary Surveillance (VISA)
- AFE: ANVISA (usually online via their portal)
- Environmental: State Environment Agency (such as CETESB in São Paulo)
You may be required to conduct technical inspections before final approval.
 4. On-Site Inspections
Authorities will visit your premises to verify:
- Cleanliness and hygiene
- Employee safety equipment
- Proper signage and evacuation plans
- Equipment conditions
The sanitary permit Brazil specifically requires that facilities meet hygiene and waste disposal protocols.
 5. Get Approved and Display Your License
Once approved, you’ll receive your permit. In most cases, it must be visibly posted in your establishment and renewed annually or bi-annually.
Timeframe and Costs
The timeline and cost depend on your business type, location, and permit complexity. The table below summarizes typical ranges:
| Permit Type | Estimated Timeline | Cost Range (BRL) |
|---|---|---|
| Sanitary Permit | 30–60 days | BRL 300–1,200 |
| ANVISA AFE | 60–120 days | BRL 2,000–8,000 |
| Environmental Licenses | 60–180+ days | Varies (can exceed BRL 10,000) |
Tip: Include additional time for facility adjustments, inspections, and documentation corrections.
Common Challenges and Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect CNAE codes: Mismatched codes can delay or invalidate your permit request.
- Incomplete documentation: Always double-check required forms and technical drawings.
- Unprepared facilities: If your facility isn’t inspection-ready, you’ll face delays.
- Permit layering: You may need both municipal and federal licenses (e.g., sanitary + AFE).
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Start early permits can take weeks or months.
- Hire a compliance expert familiar with local regulations.
- Digitize documents and submit through official portals when available.
- Train your staff in basic health and safety protocols.
 Renewals and Validity
Most health and safety permits in Brazil are valid for 1–2 years and must be renewed to remain compliant. Changes in address, business activity, or facility layout may require re-approval.
Failure to renew on time can result in:
- Fines and legal penalties
- Business suspension
- Product recalls (in ANVISA-regulated industries)
 How Ease to Compliance Can Help
At Ease to Compliance, our firm assists businesses in obtaining their health and safety permits with less stress and more accuracy. Our team provides end-to-end support, including:
- Preparing sanitary and environmental documentation
- Coordinating technical inspections
- Submitting AFE requests to ANVISA
- Ensuring your business meets all municipal and federal regulations
- Supporting renewals and amendments when your business grows
We help you meet every sanitary permit Brazil requirement and stay on top of ongoing health compliance so you can focus on your business. For more information or assistance, contact us today.
Conclusion
Acquiring the correct health and safety permits in Brazil is critical to operating legally and ethically. From the sanitary permit Brazil to environmental licenses and ANVISA certifications, these permits protect not just your staff and customers but also your business’s reputation and longevity.
Navigating the complex regulatory landscape is no easy task but with the right guidance and preparation, you can obtain your permits smoothly. Partnering with experts like Ease to Compliance ensures you meet every deadline, fulfill every requirement, and avoid costly setbacks.
Ready to start your business in Brazil the compliant way? Contact Ease to Compliance today.
FAQs on Health and Safety Permits in Brazil
Question 1. Can foreign-owned companies apply for health and safety permits in Brazil?
Answer: Yes, foreign-owned companies registered in Brazil with a valid CNPJ and local address can apply for all necessary health and safety permits, including sanitary and environmental approvals, provided they comply with national and municipal regulations.
Question 2. What happens if a business expands its operations without updating its permits?
Answer: Expanding operations like adding new services, increasing facility size, or changing product lines without updating existing permits can result in penalties, permit suspension, or even forced closure. All changes must be reported and approved by the relevant regulatory bodies.
Question 3. Are there digital platforms for managing permit applications and renewals in Brazil?
Answer: Yes, many municipalities and agencies (such as ANVISA and state environmental departments) offer online platforms where businesses can submit applications, track progress, and manage renewals digitally. Availability depends on the location and type of permit.
