Do Americans Need a Visa for Brazil?
Planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, or the Amazon? If you're a United States citizen, the entry rules for Brazil have undergone significant changes recently. Understanding whether you need a visa before you fly is critical to ensuring your South American adventure starts smoothly.
Do Americans Need a Visa for Brazil?
Yes. As of April 10, 2025, United States citizens are required to have a visa to enter Brazil for tourism or business.
Brazil had previously waived the visa requirement for Americans, Canadians, and Australians in 2019 to boost tourism. However, citing a lack of reciprocity (as the US still requires Brazilians to obtain visas), the Brazilian government reinstated the requirement.
Fortunately, you do not need to visit a consulate. Brazil offers an electronic visa (e-Visa) which allows US citizens to apply online quickly and easily.
Important Update
The reintroduction of the visa requirement was delayed several times but is now in full effect. Do not attempt to board a flight to Brazil without an approved e-Visa or you will be denied boarding.
Types of Brazilian Visas for Americans
Depending on your purpose of travel, you will apply for a different category of visa:
Tourist / Business Visa (VIVIS)
The standard e-Visa. Used for tourism, family visits, attending conferences, unpaid athletic/artistic events, or short-term business meetings.
Student Visa (VITEM IV)
Required if you plan to enroll in a course of study, student exchange, or research program in Brazil.
Work Visa (VITEM V)
Required if you have secured employment with a Brazilian company or will be providing paid services within the country.
Digital Nomad Visa (VITEM XIV)
Allows remote workers to live in Brazil for up to a year while working for a foreign employer.
How Much Does a Brazilian Visa Cost?
The application fee for the Brazilian e-Visa for US citizens is $80.90 USD. This includes the government visa fee and the standard processing service fee charged by VFS Global, the official authorized partner handling the electronic applications.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Brazilian Visa?
The standard processing time for the Brazilian e-Visa is 5 to 10 business days. However, during peak travel seasons, processing times can fluctuate. It is highly recommended to apply for your e-Visa at least one month before your planned departure date to account for any delays or requests for additional documentation.
How to Apply for a Brazilian Visa
Applying for the e-Visa is fully digital. Here are the steps:
Go to the official Brazilian e-Visa website managed by VFS Global.
Enter your personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary.
Upload a digital scan of your passport bio page and a recent passport-style photograph.
Pay the $80.90 USD fee securely using a credit or debit card.
Once approved via email, download the PDF, print a physical copy, and carry it with your passport.
Brazilian Visa Requirements
To successfully apply for the VIVIS e-Visa, you must provide:
- A valid US passport
- Passport-sized photo
- Printed flight itinerary
- Hotel reservations
- Proof of income ($2k+)
How Long Can Americans Stay in Brazil?
The standard VIVIS e-Visa for US citizens is valid for 10 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It is a multiple-entry visa.
You are permitted to stay in Brazil for up to 90 days per entry. The maximum total stay allowed is 180 days within a 12-month period.
Can You Extend Your Brazilian Visa?
Yes. If you wish to stay longer than your initial 90 days, you can apply for an extension of up to another 90 days (totaling the maximum 180 days allowed per year).
Extensions must be requested at an office of the Brazilian Federal Police (Polícia Federal) before your current 90-day period expires. You will need to fill out forms, pay an extension fee, and provide proof of financial means to support your extended stay.
Check Your Visa Requirements Instantly
Travel rules change frequently. Make sure you have the exact documentation you need for your trip to Brazil or anywhere else in the world.