Brazil has laws prohibiting discrimination on the grounds of race, sex, religion and sexual orientation. The country has a traditional tolerance towards homosexuality, and in particular Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are regarded as destinations for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) travellers. For example, it is generally considered acceptable for gays and lesbians to share beds in hotels/guest houses, and to kiss (lightly), hold hands etc in public. However, gay and lesbian travellers should be generally aware of local sensitivities, particularly when visiting some rural communities where attitudes are more conservative.

Be alert to local sense of dress. Don't overdo it with conspicuous jewellery - which is an easy target for muggers. Do not take strangers back to your hotel room - this is a simple route to becoming a victim of violence or theft. At nightclubs and bars, be wary of accepting drinks from people you have just met - these may be spiked with a "date rape" type drug, known locally as "Good Night Cinderella". There have even been stories of chewing gum being doctored. While locals may take drugs, you risk entrapment (for financial gain) or a prison term buying or using drugs yourself. Be particularly careful not to "cruise" the streets, parks or open spaces of Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo at night. This is looking for trouble.

Cases of homophobic crime are reported to be on the increase. Unofficial figures suggest that murders of gays and lesbians occur every two days on average in Brazil, with 68% of gays and lesbians reporting in one survey as having experienced some kind of aggression.

Civil Partnerships (same-sex unions) are not recognised in Brazil, and as such our Embassy and Consulates-General are unable to perform same-sex marriages. However, same-sex couples can register their relationships as a "stable union" with any Civil Registration Office (Cartório de Registro Civil) in Brazil. Additionally, same sex-couples who prove that their relationship is a "stable union" will be treated by the National Social Security Institute of Brazil as no differently than a married couple in cases of retirement or death. The "stable union" also allow same-sex couples to declare their partners as dependants for tax purposes, and to apply for residency status in Brazil through the Ministry for Labour and Employment (MTE) of Brazil in some cases.