Unemployed person walking into an unemployment office

An unemployed person walks into a SINE employment agency, Brazil's main public labor intermediation system, on an overcast day.

About this subject

The National Employment System, known by its Portuguese acronym SINE, was created in 1975 by the Brazilian federal government to articulate public policies for employment and income generation. Today, SINE is one of the main gateways for workers seeking professional reintegration, offering services such as resume registration, job placement referrals, unemployment insurance qualification, and access to professional training courses. SINE agencies are present in virtually all Brazilian municipalities, usually in partnership with state and municipal labor departments.

During periods of high unemployment, such as those recorded in recent economic crises, queues at these agencies tend to increase significantly. SINE also plays a crucial role in formalizing the labor market, as many job openings require formal employment contracts, contributing to the reduction of informality. Additionally, the system is integrated with the Unemployment Insurance Program, which provides financial support to workers dismissed without just cause for a determined period.

A curious fact is that SINE does not only serve the unemployed: it also offers services for young people seeking their first job, people with disabilities, and workers who wish to change careers. The service is free and, in many locations, can be done online through the Sine Fácil app, which allows users to check job openings, schedule appointments, and track the status of their unemployment insurance without leaving home. The image captures the moment when a worker, likely in search of these services, enters one of these units on an overcast day, reflecting the routine of thousands of Brazilians.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SINE and how does it work?

SINE (National Employment System) is a public network of employment agencies that connects workers to job openings, in addition to offering unemployment insurance and training courses. Service is free and can be done in person or through the Sine Fácil app.

Who can use SINE services?

Anyone can register with SINE, including the unemployed, young people seeking their first job, people with disabilities, and workers looking for relocation or career change. There is no income or education restriction.

How to apply for unemployment insurance through SINE?

To apply for unemployment insurance, a worker dismissed without just cause must go to a SINE agency with the required documents (ID, CPF, work card, termination notice, etc.) or apply online through the gov.br portal. SINE also assists in the qualification process.