Is the word pessoas the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes.

The word "pessoas" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, the unstressed vowels are more open and clearly articulated, creating a more melodic, syllable-timed rhythm. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels undergo significant reduction; the "e" in "pessoas" is often neutralized or nearly silent, making the word sound more compressed (closer to "p'ssas").

Brazilian Portuguese

1. As pessoas chegaram cedo. (The people arrived early.)
2. As pessoas estão correndo no parque. (People are running in the park.)
3. Eu gosto de conhecer pessoas novas. (I like to meet new people.)
4. Essas pessoas são muito legais. (These people are very nice.)
5. As pessoas não entendem o problema. (People don't understand the problem.)

European Portuguese

1. As pessoas chegaram cedo. (The people arrived early.)
2. As pessoas estão a correr no parque. (People are running in the park.)
3. Gosto de conhecer pessoas novas. (I like to meet new people.)
4. Estas pessoas são muito simpáticas. (These people are very nice.)
5. As pessoas não percebem o problema. (People don't understand the problem.)