The Chamber of Deputies approved, on April 22, 2026, the Bill No. 6,461/2019, The bill, which establishes the Apprentice Statute, now goes to the Senate for consideration and proposes a new regulatory framework for professional apprenticeship in Brazil, especially regarding the hiring and training of young people between 14 and 24 years old, as well as people with disabilities.
The project updates the provisions currently established in the CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws) and Law No. 10,097/2000, expanding rights and introducing new and relevant guarantees in the context of professional apprenticeship.
Key advancements of the Apprentice Statute
Among the main advances of the Apprentice Statute, the express provision of job security for pregnant apprentices stands out, from the confirmation of pregnancy until five months after childbirth, with the possibility of contract extension. Employment is also guaranteed for 12 months after the end of work-related illness benefits.
Another relevant point is the exclusion of apprentice remuneration from the calculation of family income for the purposes of accessing the Bolsa Família program, a measure that could generate a significant social impact and broaden the reach of professional apprenticeship in Brazil.
Impacts on companies and compliance with quotas.
From a business perspective, the bill has important practical implications. Micro-enterprises, small businesses, and public entities under statutory regulations will now have the hiring of apprentices as optional. On the other hand, companies obligated to comply with apprenticeship quotas that cannot offer the practical part of the training will have to pay R$1,500.00 per month for each unfilled position to the Special Account for Professional Apprenticeship, linked to the FAT (Workers' Assistance Fund).
Adaptation to the new Apprentice Statute
If approved by the Senate, the Apprentice Statute will require a review of internal policies, contracts, and practices related to professional apprenticeship, especially on topics such as working hours, vacations, and job security.
Given this scenario, it is recommended that the impacts of the new Apprentice Statute be assessed beforehand, as well as that the legal and human resources departments be prepared for any necessary adjustments to the new regulations.
The Team of Labor Law Simões Ribeiro is available to answer questions on the subject and is closely monitoring legislative updates related to the hiring of apprentices.
