São Paulo launches free transit card for unemployed job seekers

The São Paulo state government has opened applications for the Cartão do Trabalhador Desempregado, a digital card that provides free access to metro and suburban train services. The benefit targets workers who have been unemployed for more than 30 days but not longer than 180 days, and the card remains valid for 90 days from issuance.

Applicants must submit personal identification, CPF, termination documents, work record, and an updated CNIS extract through an online portal. For those lacking internet access, a physical service desk operates at Palmeiras‑Barra Funda station on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with prior appointment required via a toll‑free phone line. Approved cards are mailed to the applicant’s address within ten business days, with no issuance fees.

The program aims to reduce transportation costs for job‑seekers during their search for new employment, supporting mobility amid a challenging economic environment.