Politics · Brazil · 4 hrs ago
Brazilian bill would create new rules for apprentices aged 14 to 24
A bill now being considered in Brazil’s Senate would create an Apprentice Statute for young workers aged 14 to 24.
Apprenticeship already exists under government rules, but the proposal would give it a dedicated legal framework and change some parts of Brazil’s labor law.
It would guarantee rights including formal employment records, transport benefits, school-calendar holidays and protection from dangerous work.
The bill would also prioritize young people facing social vulnerability, including people with disabilities, public-school students and those who have experienced violence or institutional care.
It proposes that apprentices make up 5% to 15% of a company’s workforce, with exceptions for some smaller businesses and health-sector roles.
Companies that miss their required quota could face fines, while those unable to meet it for certain reasons could pay a reduced amount instead.
The bill has received 20 proposed amendments and still needs to proceed through the Senate; it is not yet law.
A Brazilian bill in the Senate would create a legal framework for apprentices aged 14 to 24.
The proposal sets rights for apprentices, obligations for companies, hiring criteria and enforcement measures.
It would require apprentices to make up 5% to 15% of a company’s workforce, subject to specified exceptions.
The bill provides labor protections including work-card registration, transport allowance and protection from hazardous work.
The Senate has registered 20 amendments to the original text.
- Who
- The bill concerns apprentices aged 14 to 24 and companies that hire them.
- What
- It would create an Apprentice Statute with rules on rights, hiring, company obligations and enforcement.
- When
- It began consideration in the Senate in May 2026.
- Where
- Brazil; it is being considered by the Senate.
- Why
- The proposal aims to establish a dedicated legal framework for apprenticeships.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Age range
- 14 to 24 years
- Bill
- PL 6461/2019
- Senate consideration
- Began in May 2026
- Apprentice quota proposal
- 5% to 15% of total employees
- Amendments
- 20 registered in the Senate
- Penalty
- R$ 3,000 per apprentice not hired, multiplied by months of non-compliance, up to five months per infraction notice