The Brazil business visa allows US, Canadian, and Australian citizens to attend meetings, conferences, and negotiations in Brazil for up to 90 days per entry. Short-term business travelers can apply for the eVisa online at brazil.vfsevisa.com for $80.90, while longer business engagements require a VITEM II visa through a Brazilian consulate. This guide covers every requirement, document, and step you need to secure a Brazil business visa successfully.
What Is a Brazil Business Visa?
The Brazil business visa is a travel authorization that permits foreign nationals to conduct short-term business activities in Brazil, including meetings, conferences, negotiations, and contract signings, without engaging in local employment. Brazil does not issue a standalone “business visa” label – instead, business travel falls under two visa categories depending on the duration and nature of the activity.
VIVIS: Short-Term Business eVisa
The VIVIS (Visitor Visa) is the standard visa for short business trips to Brazil. The eVisa, a subcategory of VIVIS, is available entirely online and covers:
- Business meetings with Brazilian partners or clients
- Conferences, trade shows, and seminars
- Contract negotiations and signings
- Site visits and factory tours
- Investment prospecting and market research
The VIVIS eVisa costs $80.90 USD, is valid for 10 years, and allows multiple entries with stays of up to 90 days per visit. Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia are eligible to apply through the official portal at brazil.vfsevisa.com.
VITEM II: Long-Term Business Visa
For business activities that extend beyond 90 days or involve more intensive engagement in Brazil, you need a VITEM II visa. This visa is designed for:
- Extended business projects lasting more than 90 days
- Technical assistance and training for Brazilian companies
- Long-term consulting engagements
- Management of business operations in Brazil
The VITEM II requires a consular application – you cannot apply online through the eVisa portal. Processing takes 10-30 business days, and the visa duration is typically up to 90 days, extendable once for an additional 90 days.
| Feature | VIVIS eVisa | VITEM II |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 90 days per entry | Up to 90 days, extendable |
| Application method | Online at brazil.vfsevisa.com | Brazilian consulate |
| Cost | $80.90 USD | Varies by consulate |
| Processing time | Up to 10 business days | 10-30 business days |
| Validity | 10 years, multiple entries | Single or multiple entries |
| Employment allowed | No | No |
Important: Neither the VIVIS eVisa nor the VITEM II allows you to be employed in Brazil or receive payment from a Brazilian source. For employment, you need a VITEM V work visa with employer sponsorship.
Who Needs a Brazil Business Visa?
Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia need a visa to conduct business in Brazil, even for a single-day meeting. Since April 10, 2025, Brazil reinstated the visa requirement for these three nationalities, ending the visa-free arrangement that had been in place since 2018.
Nationalities Requiring a Business Visa
| Nationality | Visa Required? | eVisa Eligible? | Consular Visa Available? |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Yes (since April 2025) | Yes | Yes |
| Canada | Yes (since April 2025) | Yes | Yes |
| Australia | Yes (since April 2025) | Yes | Yes |
| United Kingdom | No | N/A | N/A |
| European Union | No | N/A | N/A |
| Japan | No | N/A | N/A |
| India | Yes | No | Yes (consulate only) |
If your nationality is not listed as eVisa-eligible, you must apply for a traditional visa at the nearest Brazilian consulate. The eVisa portal at brazil.vfsevisa.com is exclusively available to US, Canadian, and Australian passport holders.
Business Activities That Require a Visa
All business-related activities in Brazil require a valid visa, including:
- Attending a single business meeting with a Brazilian partner
- Speaking at a conference or professional event
- Signing a contract or business agreement
- Inspecting a facility or evaluating a potential investment
- Participating in trade negotiations
There are no exemptions for short stays. Even a one-day business trip requires a valid visa before departure. Airlines will verify your visa at check-in and will not allow boarding without one.
Brazil Business Visa Requirements
To apply for a Brazil business visa, you need a valid passport, a passport-style photo, proof of business purpose, and a completed online application. The specific requirements differ slightly between the eVisa (VIVIS) and the consular VITEM II application.
Standard eVisa Requirements (VIVIS)
Every applicant must provide:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity from the planned entry date
- At least 2 blank visa pages in the passport
- Passport-style photograph – 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), white background, taken within the last 6 months
- Passport bio page scan – clear, color, minimum 600×600 pixels
- Proof of immigration status in your country of residence (for non-citizens applying from the US, Canada, or Australia)
- Credit or debit card for the $80.90 USD fee
- Email address for correspondence and eVisa delivery
Additional Documents for Business Travel
Beyond the standard eVisa documents, business travelers should prepare:
- Letter from your employer – on company letterhead, stating your name, position, purpose of travel, duration of stay, and confirmation that the company bears travel costs
- Invitation letter from the Brazilian company – on company letterhead with CNPJ (Brazilian tax ID), stating the nature of the business relationship, meeting dates, and hosting responsibility
- Proof of business relationship – such as previous contracts, email correspondence, or a company registration document from the Brazilian entity
- Flight itinerary – showing arrival and departure dates
- Hotel reservation – or a letter from the Brazilian host confirming accommodation
Passport Requirements for Business Visa
Your passport must meet ALL of these criteria:
- Validity: At least 6 months remaining from your planned entry date into Brazil
- Condition: Undamaged – no tears, water damage, or missing pages
- Machine-readable: Must have the MRZ (Machine Readable Zone) at the bottom of the bio page
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps
If your passport expires within 6 months of your planned travel date, renew it before applying. A passport that does not meet the validity requirement will result in visa denial, and the $80.90 fee is non-refundable.
How to Apply for a Brazil Business Visa Online
Apply for a Brazil business eVisa at brazil.vfsevisa.com in four steps: create an account, complete the application form, upload documents, and pay the $80.90 fee. The entire process takes approximately 20-30 minutes if you have all documents ready.
Step 1: Create Your Account on brazil.vfsevisa.com
Visit brazil.vfsevisa.com and click “Apply Now” to begin. You will need:
- A valid email address you check regularly
- A secure password (minimum 8 characters)
- Your nationality (United States, Canada, or Australia)
After registration, verify your email by clicking the confirmation link. Use a personal email address – your eVisa approval will be delivered there.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the application form with information matching your passport exactly:
- Personal details – full name, date of birth, place of birth, gender, nationality
- Passport information – number, issue date, expiration date, issuing authority
- Travel details – intended arrival date, purpose of visit (select “Business”), accommodation address in Brazil
- Employment information – current employer, job title, company address
Critical tip: Select “Business” as your purpose of visit. This categorizes your application correctly and signals to the processing team that you are a business traveler. Do not select “Tourism” if your primary purpose is business – mismatched information can cause delays.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload the following documents in JPEG or PNG format:
- Passport bio page – clear color scan, minimum 600×600 pixels
- Passport-style photo – 2×2 inches, white background, neutral expression
While the portal only requires these two uploads, having the following documents ready strengthens your application:
- Employer letter on company letterhead
- Invitation letter from the Brazilian company
- Flight itinerary and hotel reservation
Step 4: Pay and Submit
Pay the $80.90 USD eVisa fee using a credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express). After payment:
- You will receive a confirmation email
- Your application enters the processing queue
- Track status through your portal account
- Receive your approved eVisa via email within 5-10 business days
Important: The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Ensure all information is correct before submitting.
Brazil Business Visa Processing Time
Standard processing for a Brazil business eVisa takes up to 10 business days after payment confirmation. In practice, most applicants receive approval within 5-7 business days, but processing times vary by season and application volume.
Processing Time by Season
| Season | Typical Processing | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Off-peak (March-May, August-November) | 3-5 business days | Apply 2-3 weeks before travel |
| Peak (December-February) | 7-10 business days | Apply 4-6 weeks before travel |
| Holiday periods (June-July) | 7-10 business days | Apply 4-6 weeks before travel |
| Carnival season (February-March) | 7-14 business days | Apply 6-8 weeks before travel |
Application Status Meanings
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Submitted | Application received, awaiting review |
| Under Review | Processing team is evaluating your application |
| Additional Information Required | You need to upload more documents |
| Approved | eVisa granted – download and print |
| Denied | Application rejected – see denial reason |
Tips for Faster Processing
- Apply early – at least 3-4 weeks before your departure date
- Submit complete documents – incomplete applications require follow-up and delay processing
- Use a clear photo – photo issues are the number one cause of processing delays
- Check your email daily – respond to any requests for additional information immediately
- Ensure employer and invitation letters are on company letterhead – generic letters may trigger additional review
Brazil Business Visa vs. Work Visa: Key Differences
A Brazil business visa permits meetings, conferences, and negotiations, while a work visa (VITEM V) permits employment and paid activities in Brazil. Understanding this distinction is critical – engaging in work activities on a business visa is a violation of Brazilian immigration law.
What You CAN Do on a Business Visa
- Attend business meetings and negotiations
- Participate in conferences, trade shows, and seminars
- Sign contracts and business agreements
- Conduct site visits and facility inspections
- Engage in market research and investment prospecting
- Provide short-term technical training (as a trainer, not an employee)
- Attend board meetings as a foreign director
What You CANNOT Do on a Business Visa
- Work for a Brazilian employer – even temporarily
- Receive payment from a Brazilian source for services rendered
- Operate a business in Brazil
- Provide ongoing consulting or professional services
- Stay beyond 90 days without a visa extension or VITEM II
Comparison Table
| Activity | Business Visa (VIVIS) | Work Visa (VITEM V) |
|---|---|---|
| Business meetings | Yes | Yes |
| Conferences | Yes | Yes |
| Contract signing | Yes | Yes |
| Employment | No | Yes |
| Receiving payment | No | Yes |
| Duration | Up to 90 days | Up to 2 years |
| Employer sponsorship | Not required | Required |
| Application | Online (eVisa) | Consulate only |
| Cost | $80.90 | Varies by consulate |
If there is any ambiguity about whether your activities constitute business or work, consult with a Brazilian immigration attorney before applying. Overstaying your visa or engaging in unauthorized work can result in fines, deportation, and a ban on future entry to Brazil.
Brazil Business Visa Cost and Fees
The Brazil business eVisa costs $80.90 USD per applicant, regardless of age or nationality. This fee is paid online through the official portal and is non-refundable.
Fee Breakdown
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa fee (VIVIS) | $80.90 USD |
| Payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, American Express (credit or debit) |
| Children and infants | $80.90 USD (same as adults) |
| Refundable | No – non-refundable even if denied |
| Family applications | Each family member pays separately |
Additional Costs to Budget For
Beyond the visa fee, business travelers should budget for:
- Passport photos – $10-15 at retail locations (if you don’t have a compliant photo)
- Passport renewal – $130-200 if your passport is expiring within 6 months
- Document notarization – $25-50 per document if required by the consulate
- Travel insurance – recommended but not mandatory for the eVisa
- Consular fees – for VITEM II applications, fees vary by consulate and nationality
Cost Comparison: eVisa vs. Consular Application
| Method | Visa Fee | Processing Fee | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| eVisa (online) | $80.90 | None | $80.90 |
| Consular (VITEM II) | Varies ($100-200+) | Possible service fees | $150-300+ |
The eVisa is the most cost-effective option for short-term business travel. If your trip is under 90 days and you are a US, Canadian, or Australian citizen, the online eVisa at $80.90 is the fastest and cheapest route.
Common Brazil Business Visa Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these common errors can prevent delays, denials, and the loss of your $80.90 application fee. Business visa applications face additional scrutiny compared to tourist applications because of the purpose-of-visit verification.
Top Mistakes on Business Visa Applications
-
Selecting “Tourism” instead of “Business” – Your application must reflect your actual purpose of visit. Selecting “Tourism” when traveling for business can cause problems at immigration and may be flagged as misrepresentation.
-
Missing employer or invitation letter – While the portal only requires two document uploads, business applications are strengthened significantly by employer and invitation letters. Applications without these may receive requests for additional information.
-
Passport validity less than 6 months – Renew your passport before applying if it expires within 6 months of your planned entry date. The fee is non-refundable if denied.
-
Name mismatch – Your application name must match your passport letter-for-letter, including middle names and suffixes. “William J. Smith” is not the same as “William John Smith” or “Bill Smith.”
-
Poor quality document uploads – Blurry passport scans, low-resolution photos, or photos with glare are the top reasons for processing delays.
-
Incorrect travel dates – Your intended arrival date must be in the future. Applying with past dates will result in denial.
-
Not checking email for additional information requests – The processing team may request additional documents. Failure to respond within the given timeframe results in application denial.
-
Applying too late – Business trips often have fixed dates. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before departure, and 6-8 weeks during peak travel season.
-
Using a card that doesn’t allow international transactions – The $80.90 fee is processed internationally. Inform your bank before making the payment to avoid a declined transaction.
-
Forgetting to print the eVisa – Airlines may request a printed copy at check-in. Print at least 2 copies – one for your carry-on, one for your checked luggage.
FAQs About Brazil Business Visa
Can I attend a business meeting in Brazil with a tourist eVisa?
The Brazil eVisa (VIVIS) covers both tourism and business purposes. You do not need a separate “business visa” – the same $80.90 eVisa permits business meetings, conferences, and negotiations for up to 90 days. Simply select “Business” as your purpose of visit during the application.
Do I need an invitation letter for a Brazil business visa?
While not strictly required for the eVisa application, an invitation letter from the Brazilian company significantly strengthens your business visa application. The letter should be on company letterhead with the CNPJ (Brazilian tax ID), state the purpose of your visit, meeting dates, and confirm the host’s responsibility for your stay.
How long can I stay in Brazil on a business visa?
The eVisa allows stays of up to 90 days per entry. The visa itself is valid for 10 years with multiple entries. If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you can apply for an extension at a Brazilian Federal Police office (up to 90 additional days) or apply for a VITEM II visa through a consulate.
Can I work remotely for my US employer while in Brazil on a business visa?
Remote work for a foreign employer while on a business visa exists in a gray area of Brazilian immigration law. Short-term remote work incidental to a business trip (answering emails, attending virtual meetings) is generally tolerated. However, extended remote work from Brazil could be interpreted as unauthorized employment. Consult with a Brazilian immigration attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
What is the difference between a Brazil business visa and a work visa?
A business visa (VIVIS) permits meetings, conferences, and negotiations – activities that do not involve employment or payment from a Brazilian source. A work visa (VITEM V) permits actual employment in Brazil and requires employer sponsorship from a Brazilian company. Using a business visa for work activities is a violation of immigration law.
How much does a Brazil business visa cost?
The Brazil business eVisa costs $80.90 USD per applicant. This fee applies to all ages, including children. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Payment is made by credit or debit card through the official portal at brazil.vfsevisa.com.
Can I apply for a Brazil business visa at the consulate instead of online?
Yes. You can apply for a traditional visa at a Brazilian consulate if you prefer. However, the online eVisa is faster (5-10 business days vs. 10-30 business days) and cheaper ($80.90 vs. $150-300+ with service fees). The consular route is necessary only if you need a VITEM II for extended business stays or if you are not eligible for the eVisa.
What happens if my Brazil business visa is denied?
If denied, you will receive a notification explaining the reason. Common denial reasons include passport validity issues, name mismatches, and incomplete documentation. You can reapply after correcting the issue, but you must pay the $80.90 fee again. There is no formal appeal process for eVisa denials.
Can I extend my Brazil business visa while in Brazil?
Yes. You can apply for a one-time extension of up to 90 additional days at a Brazilian Federal Police office before your current visa expires. The extension must be applied for in person, and you should bring your passport, eVisa printout, proof of funds, and a letter explaining the reason for the extension. The total stay cannot exceed 180 days in a 12-month period.
Do I need travel insurance for a Brazil business visa?
Travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for the Brazil eVisa. However, it is strongly recommended for business travelers, as medical costs in Brazil can be significant for foreign visitors. Many Brazilian hospitals require payment upfront or proof of insurance before providing treatment.
Can green card holders apply for a Brazil business eVisa?
Green card holders who are not US, Canadian, or Australian citizens cannot use the eVisa portal. They must apply for a traditional visa at a Brazilian consulate. The eVisa is exclusively available to passport holders of the three eligible nationalities. Green card holders from visa-exempt countries (such as the UK or EU nations) do not need a visa for short business trips.
What documents do airlines check for a Brazil business trip?
Airlines verify that you have a valid visa before allowing you to board. At check-in, present your passport and a printed copy of your eVisa. Some airlines may also ask for your return ticket and accommodation details. While the invitation letter is not required at check-in, carrying it is recommended in case immigration officers request it upon arrival in Brazil.
