General

Brazil allows women to join military at 18

Voluntary admission will be allowed starting in 2025

Fabíola Sinimbú

Published on 29/08/2024 - 11:07

Brasília

Pela primeira vez na história do Exército Brasileiro, as mulheres poderão se tornar oficiais combatentes e chegar à patente de general e até ao comando do Exército — © Divulgação/Exército Brasileiro

Brazilian women who want to join the military will be able to do so voluntarily in the year they turn 18. A decree published Wednesday (Aug. 28) authorizes admission as of next year, when the list of municipalities where women may be enlisted should be established.

The voluntary enlistment of women can take place January through June of the year in which they reach the age of majority. Previously, only professionals admitted to sub-officer and officer training courses could join the Armed Forces.

After voluntary enlistment, women will still go through screening—including a health inspection and admission, after completing a course on basic duties.

The women selected will be integrated according to the demands of the Armed Forces. Their initial period of service lasts 12 months and may be extended.

Just like men, the enlisted women will not hold a permanent position in the military and will join the unpaid reserve once dismissed.