By recognising informality, Tô Legal fosters entrepreneurship and encourages many informal sector workers to transition into the formal economy gradually. It does this by making it easier for informal vendors to apply for permits and use them flexibly. Additionally, Tô Legal enhances transparency, improves efficiency, uses geographic information systems (GIS) for location monitoring, and reduces corruption through better payment control.
Tô Legal was designed as a gateway for individuals who need to work legally but may lack the qualifications, education, or experience necessary for formal employment. This smart electronic system, utilised by the city of São Paulo, enables citizens currently working illegally and insecurely on the streets to formalise their activities over time.
The system enables users to apply for permits, select appropriate streets for vending, find information about other vendors in the area and their offerings, update their registrations, and pay municipal fees online. Civil servants can easily access information about permits and authorisations, streamlining inspection procedures and significantly enhancing transparency and accountability.
