Q: Can an international student who is taking a summer break in their country work for a company in their country?

A: The ability of an international student to work in their home country during summer break depends on several factors, including the student's visa status, the laws of their home country, and the policies of the company they wish to work for.

Regarding your specific questions:

1. Working for a US company that does business in both the US and Brazil:

If the work is being performed in Brazil and the student is being paid in Brazil, Brazilian labor laws would likely apply. However, the company may have its own policies regarding hiring international students. It's best to discuss this directly with the company.

2. Working for a company that does business only in Brazil:

In this case, Brazilian labor laws would apply. The student's ability to work would depend on their visa status and whether they are legally allowed to work in Brazil during their break.

Unpaid positions:

Unpaid internships or volunteer positions may have different rules compared to paid employment. However, it's important to note that in many countries, including Brazil, there are laws governing unpaid internships to ensure they provide educational value and are not used to replace paid employees.

In general, it's advisable for the student to:

1. Check their visa status and any restrictions on working in their home country.

2. Research the labor laws in their home country regarding international students and unpaid internships.

3. Discuss the opportunity with the company to understand their policies and ensure compliance with all relevant laws.

It's always best to consult with the international student office at their university and seek legal advice if needed to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.