US citizens need a visa to enter Brazil since April 10, 2025. The eVisa costs $80.90, processes in up to 10 business days, and allows 90-day stays over a 10-year validity. This guide covers everything you need to know to apply successfully.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Brazil?
Yes, US citizens need a Brazil visa since April 2025. The Brazilian government reinstated the visa requirement for American passport holders effective April 10, 2025. This means you must obtain a valid visa before boarding your flight to Brazil.
If you are a US passport holder, you cannot enter Brazil without a visa, regardless of the purpose of your trip – tourism, business, transit, or any other reason. Airlines will check for a valid visa at check-in and boarding, and Brazilian immigration will verify it upon arrival.
Historical Context: Visa-Free Travel (2018-2025)
From 2018 to April 2025, US citizens enjoyed visa-free entry to Brazil for short stays. The Brazilian government eliminated the visa requirement in 2018 as a reciprocal measure to boost tourism. During this period, Americans could stay up to 90 days in Brazil with just a valid passport.
This visa-free arrangement ended on April 10, 2025, when Brazil reinstated the requirement. The US Embassy in Brasilia confirmed this change in an official message to US citizens, noting that the decision was part of Brazil’s updated immigration policy. Citizens of Canada and Australia face the same requirement.
Current Visa Policy (April 2025 Onward)
The current Brazil visa policy for US citizens centers on the electronic visa (eVisa) system. The eVisa is available through the official portal at brazil.vfsevisa.com and is the fastest, most convenient way to obtain authorization to enter Brazil.
Key facts about the current policy:
- Eligible nationalities: United States, Canada, Australia
- Visa category: VIVIS (Visitor Visa)
- Application method: Online only through brazil.vfsevisa.com
- Entry type: Multiple entries allowed
- Effective date: April 10, 2025
The US Embassy in Brazil recommends applying for the eVisa at least two weeks before your planned departure to allow for processing time.
How to Apply for a Brazil eVisa Online
Apply for a Brazil eVisa at brazil.vfsevisa.com in three straightforward steps. The entire process is done online, and you do not need to visit a consulate or embassy in person. The Brazil eVisa application is designed for citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia who hold valid passports.
Step 1: Create Your Application
Visit brazil.vfsevisa.com and select “United States” as your nationality. Click “Apply Now” to begin the application form. You will need to provide:
- Full name (as it appears on your passport)
- Date of birth
- Passport number and expiration date
- Email address
- Travel dates and purpose of visit
The form takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. Double-check all information against your passport before proceeding, as errors can cause processing delays or denials.
Step 2: Upload Documents and Photo
After completing the form, you must upload two documents:
- Passport bio page scan – A clear, color scan or photo of the page with your photo and personal information
- Passport-style photo – Recent photo with white background, showing your full face
The photo must meet these specifications:
- Size: 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) or 35×45 mm
- Background: Plain white
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Format: JPEG or PNG
- Resolution: Minimum 600×600 pixels
Common photo rejection reasons include wearing glasses, uneven lighting, or non-white backgrounds. For detailed guidance on photo requirements, see our Brazil visa photo requirements guide.
Step 3: Pay and Submit
The final step is paying the $80.90 USD eVisa fee. The portal accepts:
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
- Debit cards
After payment, you will receive a confirmation email. Your application enters the processing queue, and you can track its status through the portal. Most applicants receive their approved eVisa via email within 5-10 business days.
For a complete walkthrough of the online application process, visit our Brazil visa online application guide.
Brazil Visa Cost and Processing Time
The Brazil eVisa costs $80.90 USD with processing taking up to 10 business days. This fee is per person and is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Children and infants also require their own eVisa at the same price.
Here is a breakdown of what to expect:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| eVisa fee | $80.90 USD |
| Processing time | 5-10 business days (up to 10 officially) |
| Validity | 10 years |
| Entry type | Multiple entries |
| Maximum stay | 90 days per entry |
| Payment methods | Credit/debit card |
The processing time of up to 10 business days begins after your payment is confirmed. During peak travel seasons (December-February, June-July), processing may take the full 10 business days. Plan accordingly and apply well in advance of your trip.
For a detailed fee breakdown by nationality and visa type, see our Brazil visa fee guide.
Brazil Visa Requirements for US Citizens
Brazil visa requirements include a valid passport, a recent passport-style photo, and a completed online application. These are the core documents every US citizen must provide when applying for a Brazil eVisa.
Passport Requirements
Your US passport must meet these criteria:
- Validity: At least 6 months remaining from your planned entry date into Brazil
- Condition: Undamaged, with a clear bio page
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank pages for entry/exit stamps
If your passport expires within 6 months of your travel date, renew it before applying for the Brazil eVisa. A passport that does not meet the validity requirement will result in visa denial.
Document Checklist
Before starting your application, gather these documents:
- [ ] Valid US passport (6+ months validity)
- [ ] Passport bio page scan (color, clear)
- [ ] Passport-style photo (white background, recent)
- [ ] Credit or debit card for $80.90 payment
- [ ] Email address for correspondence
- [ ] Travel itinerary (dates, accommodation details)
Additional Requirements for Business Travel
If you are traveling for business purposes, you may also need:
- Letter from your US employer explaining the trip purpose
- Invitation letter from the Brazilian company
- Proof of business relationship
For a complete document checklist, visit our Brazil visa requirements guide.
Types of Brazil Visas for Americans
US citizens can apply for VIVIS (short-term) or VITEM (long-term) Brazil visas. The eVisa falls under the VIVIS category, which covers tourism, business meetings, transit, and cultural events lasting up to 90 days.
VIVIS: Short-Term Visitor Visa
The VIVIS is the standard visa for short visits to Brazil. The eVisa is a subcategory of VIVIS that allows online application. VIVIS covers:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Business meetings (without employment)
- Transit through Brazil
- Cultural and sporting events
- Medical treatment (short-term)
VITEM: Long-Term Temporary Visa
If you plan to stay in Brazil for more than 90 days, you need a VITEM visa. VITEM categories include:
| VITEM Type | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| VITEM I | Academic/cultural exchange | Up to 2 years |
| VITEM II | Long-term business | Up to 90 days, extendable |
| VITEM IV | Student | Up to 1 year, renewable |
| VITEM V | Employment | Up to 2 years, renewable |
| VITEM VII | Religious work | Up to 1 year, renewable |
VITEM visas require a more detailed application process and often involve additional documentation. You must apply for VITEM visas at a Brazilian consulate, not through the eVisa portal.
For a detailed comparison of all visa types, see our Brazil visa types guide.
The $2000 Rule and Brazil Entry Requirements
Brazil may require proof of $2000 in funds at immigration, though enforcement varies. This is an entry requirement, not a visa requirement, and applies to all foreign visitors regardless of nationality.
What Is the $2000 Rule?
The $2000 rule is a Brazilian immigration policy that allows border officials to ask travelers to demonstrate they have sufficient financial means for their stay. The minimum amount is approximately $2000 USD (or equivalent in other currencies).
How to Show Proof of Funds
If asked, you can demonstrate financial means through:
- Bank statements (recent, showing sufficient balance)
- Credit cards (with available credit)
- Cash (USD, EUR, or Brazilian reais)
- Traveler’s checks
In practice, enforcement is inconsistent. Many travelers report never being asked about funds, while others have been asked at immigration. To avoid any issues, carry a recent bank statement or ensure your credit card has adequate available credit.
Other Entry Requirements
Beyond the visa and proof of funds, you will also need:
- Return or onward ticket – Proof you plan to leave Brazil within your visa validity
- Accommodation details – Hotel reservation or host address
- Health requirements – No specific vaccinations are currently required for US citizens entering Brazil, but yellow fever vaccination is recommended if visiting certain regions
What to Do If Your Brazil Visa Is Denied
Brazil visa denials can be addressed by correcting the issues and reapplying. The most common reasons for denial are incomplete documentation, passport validity issues, and photo problems.
Common Denial Reasons
- Passport validity less than 6 months – Renew your passport before reapplying
- Poor quality or non-compliant photo – Follow the photo specifications exactly
- Incorrect personal information – Ensure all details match your passport exactly
- Incomplete application – Fill out every required field
- Previous immigration violations – If you overstayed a previous visa, address this in your application
Reapplication Process
If your eVisa application is denied:
- Review the denial reason in the email from the portal
- Correct the identified issue
- Submit a new application at brazil.vfsevisa.com
- Pay the $80.90 fee again (fees are non-refundable)
- Wait for processing (up to 10 business days)
There is no formal appeal process for eVisa denials. If you believe the denial was unjustified, you can contact the nearest Brazilian consulate for guidance on a traditional visa application.
For more details on the application process and common pitfalls, see our Brazil visa application guide.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Do Americans need a visa to visit Brazil in 2025?
Yes. Since April 10, 2025, all US citizens need a visa to enter Brazil. The most convenient option is the eVisa, which can be applied for entirely online at brazil.vfsevisa.com. The eVisa costs $80.90 and is valid for 10 years with multiple entries.
What is the $2000 rule in Brazil?
The $2000 rule is an immigration policy that allows Brazilian border officials to ask travelers to prove they have at least $2000 USD in available funds. You can show this with bank statements, credit cards, or cash. Enforcement varies – many travelers are never asked, but it is wise to carry proof just in case.
How long does it take for a US citizen to get a Brazilian visa?
Processing a Brazil eVisa takes up to 10 business days after payment confirmation. Most applicants receive approval within 5-7 business days. During peak travel seasons, it may take the full 10 days. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip.
How much does a Brazil visa cost for US citizens?
The Brazil eVisa costs $80.90 USD per person. This fee applies to all ages, including children and infants. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Payment is made by credit or debit card through the official portal.
Can US citizens get a visa on arrival in Brazil?
No. Brazil does not offer visa on arrival for US citizens. You must obtain your eVisa before traveling. Airlines will check for a valid visa at check-in, and you will not be allowed to board without one.
How long can a US citizen stay in Brazil with an eVisa?
The eVisa allows stays of up to 90 days per entry. The visa itself is valid for 10 years with multiple entries, so you can enter and leave Brazil multiple times. Each individual stay cannot exceed 90 days.
What documents do I need for a Brazil eVisa?
You need a valid US passport with at least 6 months validity, a passport-style photo with white background, and a credit or debit card for the $80.90 payment. You also need to provide your email address and travel details.
Can green card holders apply for a Brazil 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 for passport holders of the three eligible nationalities.
Is the Brazil eVisa a multiple-entry visa?
Yes. The Brazil eVisa allows multiple entries over its 10-year validity period. You can enter Brazil as many times as you wish, as long as each stay does not exceed 90 days.
What happens if I overstay my Brazil visa?
Overstaying your Brazil visa can result in fines, deportation, and a ban on future entry. If you need to stay longer than 90 days, apply for an extension at a Brazilian Federal Police office before your visa expires. Extensions can grant up to 90 additional days.
Last updated: July 2025. Visa policies may change. Always verify current requirements at brazil.vfsevisa.com and the US Embassy in Brazil.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific immigration questions, consult a qualified immigration attorney or the nearest Brazilian consulate.
