Can a tourist visa holder apply for a Work Visa without leaving Brazil?

Generally, they do not. An individual who enters Brazil as a tourist must exit the country with the same status. This means that tourists are not permitted to change a visa from one type to another during his/her stay in the country. A possible employer must initiate the application of a Work Permit in behalf of the applicant. Once approved, the applicant must leave Brazil and go back to his country of origin, where he/she can claim his/her Work Visa through the Brazilian Consulate.