I'm a 25 year old British professional, just been offered a job as a sales manager for an international company with a 20 strong office in Sao Paulo.

I'm just about to start the visa process but I'm wondering if my work permit application could still be rejected, even though I have received a job offer and have a company willing to sponsor me?

I do not posses a university degree but have 4 years of successful and relevant work experience and speak advanced Portuguese..

This is what I've read about the "Temporary Visa with a company tie (Visto Temporario V)":

"This visa is granted to an individual whose qualifications and/or experience clearly demonstrate that his skills set is unique and there is no Brazilian citizen who can assume the role he is intended to perform in the country. This requirement will be rigorously investigated by the Ministry of Labour and Employment (Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego)."

In my case, I was offered the job as they are looking specifically for a native English speaker with an international sales background.

The term "rigorously investigated" has worried me a little, so this is why I would be very interested in hearing any thoughts or opinions on this matter and REALISTICALLY how difficult it is to get a work permit here in Brazil, even with company sponsor. And are there any "ways" to make it easier and more likely? (if you get my drift.. haha)

Thanks is advance,
Matt

Thanks Gringodude. So, they still could potentially reject my application even though the company wants to employ me?

Is this common? I was thinking that the fact I havn't got a degree might be an issue... if anyone has any thoughts or experience reg this then please share!

Yes, the application can still be denied.

The govt is making it more difficult every year to liberate this kind of visa so don't burn any bridges yet.
I'd say on what you write about yourself the company has to write a hell of an application since you are not in sat com or oil.
Might still go very well as Brazil is Brazil.

Thanks for all your posts gentleman.. I appreciate the advice.

I am considering using an immigration lawyer through one of these expat consultancies here, does anyone have any experience with these? I am unsure as to exactly what the main advantage is though.. Are they merely just a facilitator or are they likely to genuinely improve my chances?