Unemployed person walking into an unemployment office

Unemployed person enters a SINE agency, the main gateway to job vacancies and unemployment insurance in Brazil.

About this subject

The National Employment System (SINE) was created in 1975 by the Brazilian federal government to mediate labor between workers and employers. Present in all states, SINE offers free services such as resume registration, job referrals, digital work card issuance, and unemployment insurance requests. In 2023, over 7 million workers were assisted by its units, which operate in partnership with city halls and state labor departments.

The image depicts a common scene at SINE's doors: the daily commute of those seeking professional reinsertion. CAGED data shows that, on average, 40% of workers using the system find a new job within three months. Users range from first-time job seekers to experienced professionals in career transition, reflecting the diversity of the Brazilian labor market.

Interestingly, SINE also provides free vocational courses in partnership with Pronatec and Senac. During the COVID-19 pandemic, agencies migrated part of their services to the Emprega Brasil portal, but in-person demand remains high, especially among workers with limited digital access. In 2024, the government launched the Digital Work Card app, integrating SINE services and allowing job searches and document issuance via smartphone.

The scene, captured on a sunny day, symbolizes hope for those seeking an opportunity. SINE is often compared to employment systems in countries like Germany and Canada but faces challenges such as staff turnover and a lack of vacancies in poorer regions. Nonetheless, it remains Brazil's main public policy for labor intermediation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SINE and what services does it offer?

SINE (National Employment System) is a network of public agencies that provides free labor intermediation, resume registration, work card issuance, and unemployment insurance requests.

How do I register with SINE?

Go to a SINE agency with your ID, CPF, and proof of residence. You can also register online through the Emprega Brasil portal or the Digital Work Card app.

What is SINE's success rate in job placement?

According to CAGED data, about 40% of registered workers find a job within three months. The rate varies by region and candidate profile.