Brazil is the largest country in Latin America and one of the most visited destinations in the world. Its paradisiacal beaches, lush nature, and vibrant culture make it a trip worth planning carefully.
For many travelers, the first step is applying for a visa. In this guide, we explain how to get a Brazil visa, what types are available, what the requirements are, and how much the process costs.
Do you need a visa for Brazil?
It depends on the traveler's nationality. Some countries have visa-free access, while others must apply at the corresponding Embassy or Consulate. Certain nationalities can complete the online Brazil visa application quickly and easily.
Coming soon: you will be able to obtain an eVisa (electronic visa) if you travel to Brazil by air, land, or sea through Visagov. Use our eligibility checker to find out if you meet the requirements to apply for a Brazil e-visa.
Types of Brazil visa
Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip, you will need to apply for one of the following visa types:
eVisa for Brazil
The Brazil electronic visa is currently available exclusively to citizens of Australia, Canada, and the United States.
It is a multiple-entry visa that allows stays of up to 90 days. You must apply for it if you are traveling for any of the following reasons:
- Tourism.
- Business: attending meetings, trade fairs, signing contracts, audits, or consulting. It does not allow receiving financial compensation from a Brazilian entity.
- Transit: if you wish to exit the transit area or if your inbound and outbound tickets are not on a single itinerary. Included in the eVisa.
- Conferences or seminars.
- Visit to a spouse or family member if you are married to or engaged with a Brazilian citizen.
- Crew members of transport vehicles arriving in Brazil, unless you present an international seafarer's card issued under the ILO Convention.
VIVIS
Multiple-entry visa valid for 90 days, designed for those traveling for tourism or business who cannot apply for the visa online. The total stay must not exceed 180 days per year. It is also valid for transit, sporting or artistic activities, studies, volunteering, and attendance at conferences or meetings.
Diplomatic visa
For diplomats and government officials traveling to Brazil on behalf of their government or organization, either temporarily or permanently.
Official visa
Intended for administrative staff who need to enter Brazil temporarily or permanently on behalf of their government or organization.
Courtesy visa
For foreign heads of state and their family members visiting Brazil for non-official purposes.
Temporary visas (VITEMs)
They cover multiple situations: scientific research, medical treatment, teaching, work, religious, cultural, or technological activities, family visits, investment, or sports or artistic training.
How to get a Brazil visa
The process is entirely online, fast, and available in your language. Just follow these steps:
- Complete the application form with your personal details and passport information.
- Pay the visa fees by credit or debit card.
- Wait for confirmation: you will receive the approved visa at the email address you provided.
- Print a copy of the visa and present it to immigration authorities upon arrival in Brazil.
What are the requirements to apply for a Brazil visa?
Regardless of the purpose of travel, every application must include the following documents:
- Valid passport.
- Personal photograph of the applicant.
- Flight tickets proving entry into and exit from Brazil. If traveling by cruise ship, a letter from the cruise line confirming the booking or proof of payment will suffice.
- Bank card to pay the visa fee.
- Email address to receive the approved visa.
Additional documentation for business travel
In addition to the general documents, those traveling for business must submit an invitation letter from the Brazilian company, institution, or organization, signed by a supervisor or manager. The letter must specify:
- The activity or sector of the signing company.
- The applicant's position, with a brief description of their duties and monthly salary.
- The specific activities to be carried out during the stay in Brazil.
- The travel dates.
- Confirmation that the company will cover the applicant's expenses during their stay.
- Confirmation that the applicant will not receive any compensation from the Brazilian entity. All costs are to be borne by the company in the applicant's home country.
Additional requirements for minors under 18
In addition to the general documents, applications for minors must include:
- Original and copy of the birth certificate.
- A visa issuance consent form for minors, signed by both parents.
- Copy of the parents' passport or national ID, with the name exactly matching the one on the birth certificate. If either parent has changed their name, supporting documentation must be provided (marriage certificate, court order, etc.).
- Death certificate, in the event of the death of one of the parents.
- Copy of the court order, if the minor is under the sole custody of one parent.
- A Declaração de Não-Cidadania, if the minor is the child of Brazilian citizens, to confirm that they do not hold a Brazilian birth certificate.
If the birth certificate only lists one parent's details, only that person's signature will be required.
What are the entry requirements for Brazil?
To enter Brazil you will need:
- An approved Brazil visa.
- Valid passport.
- Personal photograph.
Can the Brazil visa be modified once submitted?
No. Once the application has been processed, no changes can be made. However, the Brazilian Government may request additional information or documentation before issuing the final approval. In that case, our support team will contact you.
How much does a Brazil visa cost?
The general cost of a Brazil visa is $80.90 USD.
How far in advance should you apply for a Brazil visa?
It is recommended to start the application at least 13 days before your trip. This window will allow you to address any additional documentation requirements without affecting your travel plans.
What are the entry points to Brazil?
The main international airports are:
- São Paulo – Governador André Franco Montoro (GRU)
- Rio de Janeiro / Galeão – Antônio Carlos Jobim (GIG)
- Brasília – Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek (BSB)
- Salvador – Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães (SSA)
- Fortaleza – Pinto Martins (FOR)
By land, you can enter the country from Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Venezuela. By sea, the main ports of entry are Rio de Janeiro and Santos.
Do you need a transit visa for Brazil?
Yes. You must apply for a Brazil visa if you plan to exit the transit area or if your outbound flight is not included on the same ticket as your inbound flight.
