Abstract:
This paper aims to evaluate the degree of formalization of self-employed in Brazil. At a first moment a bibliographical review is made on studies that originated the concept of "informal sector". By exploring the operationalization of the concept, the author argues that the term "informal employment" reinforces the idea that there are cases where the self-employed can be regarded as formal. From the analysis of the evolution of data from National Survey by Household Sampling (PNAD 2009-2014), highlighting the fact that among adults and individuals living in urban areas only 16.1% are formal. Therefore, it is concluded that the rate of formalization of self-employment can be expanded and for this to occur it is essential to have a more accurate understanding of this heterogeneous occupational category which encompasses both waste pickers and physicians.
Keywords:
informality; self-employment; heterogeneity