Canadian citizens need a visa to enter Brazil since April 10, 2025, when the Brazilian government reinstated the requirement for US, Canadian, and Australian passport holders. The Brazil eVisa costs $80.90 USD, is valid for up to 10 years, and permits stays of 90 days per visit. This guide covers the complete application process for Canadian citizens, from document preparation to approval.
Do Canadians Need a Visa for Brazil?
Yes, Canadian citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Brazil for tourism, business, transit, artistic activities, or sports. Brazil eliminated visa-free entry for Canadians on April 10, 2025, after a brief exemption period that lasted from 2019 to early 2025. The requirement applies to all Canadian passport holders regardless of their travel purpose within the eligible categories.
History of Canada-Brazil Visa Requirements
Brazil and Canada have had a reciprocal visa arrangement for decades. Key dates:
- Pre-2019: Canadian citizens required a consular visa for Brazil
- 2019: Brazil introduced visa-free entry for Canadians (along with US and Australian citizens) as a tourism stimulus measure
- April 10, 2025: Brazil reinstated the visa requirement, launching the new eVisa system as a streamlined alternative to consular processing
- 2026: The eVisa system remains the primary method for Canadian citizens to obtain a Brazil visa
The reinstatement came after Brazil’s new administration reversed the previous visa liberalization policy. Canadian citizens now join US and Australian nationals in being required to obtain an eVisa through the official online portal before departure.
Can Canadians Get a Visa on Arrival?
No. Brazil does not offer visa-on-arrival for Canadian citizens. You must complete the eVisa application process online before your trip. Airlines will verify your visa status at check-in, and you will be denied boarding on flights to Brazil without a valid eVisa approval.
Brazil eVisa: Key Details for Canadian Citizens
The Brazil eVisa is an electronic travel authorization (VIVIS) that Canadian citizens apply for entirely online through the official portal at brazil.vfsevisa.com. No visit to the Brazilian embassy or consulate is required.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa type | VIVIS (Short-term Visitor) |
| Fee | $80.90 USD per applicant |
| Validity | Up to 10 years from date of issue |
| Maximum stay | 90 days per visit |
| Entry type | Multiple entry |
| Processing time | Up to 10 business days |
| Application method | Online only |
| Official portal | brazil.vfsevisa.com |
What Activities Does the eVisa Allow?
The Brazil eVisa permits Canadian travelers to:
- Tourism – Sightseeing, vacation, visiting family or friends
- Business – Meetings, conferences, contract negotiations, trade events
- Artistic activities – Performances, exhibitions, cultural events, film production
- Sports – Competitions, athletic events, sports tourism
- Transit – Passing through Brazil en route to another country
The eVisa does not authorize employment, paid work, long-term academic study, or permanent residence. Canadians seeking to work in Brazil must apply for a VITEM V work visa through the Brazilian consulate in Canada with employer sponsorship.
Documents Canadian Citizens Need for the Brazil eVisa
Canadian applicants need four core documents: a valid Canadian passport, a passport-style photograph, proof of immigration status, and travel details. Each document must meet specific requirements to avoid delays or rejection.
1. Valid Canadian Passport
Your Canadian passport is the most critical document. Requirements:
- Validity: At least 6 months of remaining validity from your planned entry date into Brazil
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank visa pages (not including amendment or observation pages)
- Condition: No significant damage, tears, water stains, or missing pages
- Type: Must be a regular (blue) Canadian passport. Temporary and emergency travel documents may not be accepted
Critical: If your Canadian passport expires within 6 months of your planned travel date, renew it through Passport Canada before applying for the Brazil eVisa. Applications with insufficient passport validity are automatically denied.
2. Passport-Style Photograph
Brazil requires a specific digital photograph format:
- Size: 2 inches x 2 inches (51mm x 51mm)
- Background: Plain white or light-colored, no patterns
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Expression: Neutral facial expression, mouth closed, eyes open and visible
- Glasses: No tinted lenses; clear prescription glasses are acceptable if there is no glare
- Head coverings: Only for religious purposes; face must be fully visible
- Format: JPEG or PNG, minimum 600 x 600 pixels
- Lighting: Even lighting, no shadows on face or background
3. Proof of Immigration Status
Canadian citizens applying from Canada must provide:
- Canadian citizens born in Canada: Copy of valid Canadian passport (already included in application)
- Naturalized Canadian citizens: Copy of Canadian passport or citizenship certificate
- Dual nationals: If you hold Brazilian dual nationality, you cannot apply for the eVisa. Brazilian law requires dual citizens to travel on a Brazilian passport
4. Travel Details
You will need to provide:
- Intended arrival date in Brazil
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, artistic, sports, or transit)
- Accommodation address in Brazil (hotel, Airbnb, or host address)
- Port of entry (e.g., Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport, Rio de Janeiro Galeao International Airport)
How to Apply for the Brazil eVisa from Canada: Step-by-Step
The entire application process for Canadian citizens is completed online at brazil.vfsevisa.com and typically takes 20-30 minutes. Processing begins after submission and can take up to 10 business days.
Step 1: Create Your Account
Visit brazil.vfsevisa.com and click “Apply Now” to begin the registration process.
- Enter your email address (use a personal email you check frequently – all correspondence including approval goes here)
- Create a secure password (minimum 8 characters)
- Verify your email by clicking the confirmation link sent to your inbox
- Log in with your new credentials
Tip: Use a personal email, not a work or university email. You need ongoing access to this email for status updates and to download your approved eVisa.
Step 2: Fill Out Personal Information
Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your Canadian passport. Any discrepancy between your application and passport can cause processing delays or denial.
- Full legal name (including middle name if listed on passport)
- Date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY format)
- Place of birth (city and country as shown on passport)
- Gender
- Nationality: Canada
- Marital status
- Current residential address in Canada
Critical: Copy your name letter-for-letter from your passport. If your passport shows “Michael J. Tremblay,” do not enter “Mike Tremblay” or “Michael Jean Tremblay.”
Step 3: Enter Passport Details
Enter your Canadian passport information with extreme care. This section is the most common source of errors.
- Passport number – The alphanumeric code on your passport’s biographical page
- Issuing country – Canada
- Date of issue – When your passport was issued
- Expiration date – Your passport’s expiration date
- Issuing authority – “Government of Canada” or as listed on your passport
Step 4: Provide Travel Information
Enter your planned trip details:
- Intended date of arrival – Your planned first day in Brazil
- Purpose of visit – Select from: Tourism, Business, Artistic Activities, Sports, or Transit
- Accommodation address – Hotel name and address, Airbnb listing, or host’s address in Brazil
- Duration of stay – How long you plan to remain in Brazil (up to 90 days)
- Port of entry – The airport or border crossing you plan to use
Note: If you do not have a confirmed accommodation, you can enter a hotel you are considering. The address is for immigration records and does not lock you into that specific accommodation.
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload clear, high-quality scans or photos of your documents.
Passport biographical page:
– Format: JPEG or PNG
– Resolution: Minimum 600 x 600 pixels
– Lighting: Even, no glare, no shadows
– Must show: Full biographical page with photo, name, passport number, and MRZ code
Passport-style photograph:
– 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)
– Plain white background
– Neutral expression, no glasses with tinted lenses
– Taken within last 6 months
Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee
The Brazil eVisa fee is $80.90 USD per applicant. Payment is made online through the portal.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| eVisa fee | $80.90 USD |
| Payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, American Express (credit or debit) |
| Refundable? | No – Non-refundable even if denied |
| Per applicant | Yes – Each traveler pays separately |
Important notes for Canadian applicants:
– The fee is charged in USD, so your credit card statement will show the USD amount converted to CAD at your bank’s exchange rate
– At typical exchange rates (approximately 1.35-1.40 CAD per USD), expect to pay roughly $109-$113 CAD
– Children and infants need their own eVisa and pay the full $80.90 fee
– If your card is declined, contact your Canadian bank to authorize the international transaction
Step 7: Review and Submit
Before submitting, double-check every field against your passport.
- Name matches passport exactly
- Passport number is correct (each character)
- Dates are accurate (issue, expiry, birth)
- Photo meets all specifications
- Documents are clear and readable
- Travel dates are reasonable
Once submitted, you cannot edit your application. Errors may require a new application and a new $80.90 payment.
Step 8: Wait for Processing
Standard processing takes up to 10 business days. After submission:
- Confirmation email – You receive an email confirming receipt
- Processing – Your application enters the review queue
- Status updates – Log in to brazil.vfsevisa.com to check status
- Approval notification – You receive an email when your eVisa is approved
- Download eVisa – Log in to download and print your eVisa approval
Step 9: Download and Print Your eVisa
Once approved, download your eVisa PDF from your portal account.
- Print at least 2 copies – one for your carry-on, one for checked luggage
- Present your printed eVisa along with your Canadian passport at check-in
- Brazilian immigration can verify your eVisa electronically using your passport number
- Keep your eVisa accessible throughout your trip
Brazil eVisa Processing Time for Canadians
Standard processing for Canadian applicants takes up to 10 business days, but timing varies by season and application volume.
| Season | Typical Processing | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Off-peak (March-May, Aug-Nov) | 3-5 business days | Apply 2-3 weeks before travel |
| Peak (Dec-Feb) | 7-10 business days | Apply 4-6 weeks before travel |
| Holiday periods (Jun-Jul) | 7-10 business days | Apply 4-6 weeks before travel |
| Carnival season (Feb-Mar) | 7-14 business days | Apply 6-8 weeks before travel |
Tips for Faster Processing
- Apply early – At least 3-4 weeks before departure; 6-8 weeks during peak season
- Submit complete documents – Incomplete applications require follow-up and add days to processing
- Use a clear photo – Photo issues are the number one cause of processing delays
- Check your email daily – Respond to requests for additional information immediately
- Avoid peak travel dates – If flexible, apply during off-peak months
Brazil Visa Cost for Canadian Citizens
The total cost of a Brazil eVisa for Canadian citizens is $80.90 USD (approximately $109-$113 CAD). There are no additional government fees, surcharges, or processing costs when applying through the official portal.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Cost (USD) | Cost (CAD approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa government fee | $80.90 | $109-$113 |
| Official portal processing | Included | Included |
| Third-party service | N/A | N/A |
Avoiding Overpaying
Only apply through brazil.vfsevisa.com. Third-party websites and visa agencies often charge $150-$300 USD or more for the same eVisa. These services:
- Submit the exact same application you can complete yourself
- Add significant markups for minimal or no added value
- May not be authorized by the Brazilian government
- Cannot expedite processing beyond the official timeline
Payment Tips for Canadian Applicants
- Use a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees (many Canadian travel cards offer this)
- The charge appears in USD on your statement
- If your card is declined, call your bank to authorize the transaction before re-attempting
- Keep your payment confirmation receipt
Brazil eVisa Requirements Specific to Canadian Citizens
Beyond the standard eVisa requirements, Canadian applicants should be aware of several Canada-specific considerations.
Dual Nationality Rules
If you are a Canadian citizen who also holds Brazilian nationality, you cannot apply for the eVisa. Brazilian law requires all Brazilian nationals, including dual citizens, to enter and exit Brazil using a Brazilian passport. If your Brazilian passport has expired, you must contact the Brazilian consulate in Canada to renew it before traveling.
Canadian Permanent Residents (Non-Citizens)
If you are a permanent resident of Canada but not a Canadian citizen, your visa requirements depend on your citizenship country:
- Citizens of countries that need a Brazil visa: Apply based on your nationality
- Citizens of visa-exempt countries: You may not need a visa (check with the Brazilian consulate)
- You will need to provide proof of your Canadian permanent resident status in your eVisa application
Brazilian Consulates in Canada
While the eVisa eliminates the need for embassy visits, Canadian citizens may need to contact the Brazilian consulate for complex cases:
| Consulate | Jurisdiction | City |
|---|---|---|
| Embassy of Brazil | National (diplomatic matters) | Ottawa |
| Consulate General | Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, BC, territories | Toronto, Vancouver |
| Consulate General | Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland | Montreal, Ottawa |
What to Do If Your Brazil Visa Application Is Denied
If your application is denied, you receive a notification explaining the reason. You can reapply after addressing the issue.
Common Denial Reasons for Canadian Applicants
| Denial Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| Passport validity under 6 months | Renew your Canadian passport, then reapply |
| Photo non-compliant | Take a new photo meeting all specifications |
| Name mismatch with passport | Correct the name to match your passport exactly |
| Incomplete documents | Upload all required documents in a new application |
| Previous overstay in Brazil | Contact the Brazilian consulate in Canada for guidance |
| Criminal background | Consult with a Brazilian immigration attorney |
| Dual Brazilian nationality | Apply for/renew your Brazilian passport instead |
Reapplication Process
- Review the denial reason carefully
- Address the specific issue cited
- Submit a new application with corrected information
- Pay the $80.90 USD fee again (previous fee is non-refundable)
- Allow standard processing time for the new application
Travel Tips for Canadians Visiting Brazil
Beyond the visa, Canadian travelers should prepare for several practical aspects of visiting Brazil.
Currency and Money
- Brazilian Real (BRL) is the local currency
- As of 2026, 1 CAD = approximately 4.0-4.5 BRL (rates fluctuate)
- ATMs are widely available in cities; use bank-operated ATMs for security
- Credit cards are accepted in most urban areas; carry cash for smaller establishments
- Notify your Canadian bank of your travel dates to avoid card blocks
Health and Safety
- No mandatory vaccinations are currently required for entry from Canada
- The health declaration form must be completed within 72 hours before your flight
- Travel health insurance is strongly recommended (Brazil’s public healthcare system does not cover tourists)
- Tap water is not potable in most Brazilian cities; drink bottled or filtered water
Flights from Canada to Brazil
- Direct flights are available from Toronto (YYZ) and Montreal (YUL) to Sao Paulo (GRU) and Rio de Janeiro (GIG)
- Flight time from Toronto to Sao Paulo: approximately 10-11 hours
- Airlines operating direct routes: Air Canada, LATAM Airlines
- Connecting flights through US hubs (Miami, New York, Houston) are also common
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (December-March): Hot, humid, peak season with higher prices; includes Carnival (February-March)
- Winter (June-August): Cooler, drier, especially in the south; ideal for Amazon and Pantanal
- Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-November): Best balance of weather, prices, and crowds
FAQs About Brazil Visa for Canadian Citizens
How long does it take to get a Brazil visa from Canada?
Standard processing takes up to 10 business days. During off-peak periods (March-May, August-November), many Canadian applicants receive approval in 3-5 business days. During peak seasons like Carnival and December holidays, processing may take 7-14 business days. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your departure date.
How much does a Brazil visa cost for Canadian citizens?
The Brazil eVisa costs $80.90 USD per applicant. At current exchange rates, this is approximately $109-$113 CAD. The fee is non-refundable even if your application is denied. There are no additional government fees when applying through the official portal at brazil.vfsevisa.com.
Can Canadian permanent residents apply for a Brazil eVisa?
The eVisa is available to Canadian citizens only. Canadian permanent residents must apply based on their citizenship nationality. If your citizenship country requires a visa for Brazil, you apply through the eVisa system. If your citizenship country is visa-exempt for Brazil, you may not need a visa at all. Check with the Brazilian consulate for your specific situation.
Do I need to visit the Brazilian embassy in Canada to get a visa?
No. The entire Brazil eVisa application process for Canadian citizens is completed online at brazil.vfsevisa.com. No embassy or consulate visit is required. You only need to contact the consulate for complex cases such as dual nationality issues, previous visa denials, or work visa applications.
Can I work in Brazil with the eVisa?
No. The Brazil eVisa (VIVIS) only permits tourism, business meetings, artistic activities, sports events, and transit. To work in Brazil, Canadian citizens must apply for a VITEM V work visa through the Brazilian consulate in Canada. The VITEM V requires employer sponsorship and a separate application process.
What happens if my Brazil visa application is denied?
You will receive a notification explaining the denial reason. Common issues include passport validity under 6 months, photo non-compliance, or name mismatches. You can reapply after addressing the specific issue. A new application requires a new $80.90 USD payment, as the previous fee is non-refundable.
Can I extend my stay in Brazil beyond 90 days?
The eVisa allows a maximum stay of 90 days per visit. Extensions may be possible through the Brazilian Federal Police (Policia Federal) but are not guaranteed. Overstaying your visa results in fines and may affect future visa applications. If you need to stay longer than 90 days, apply for an extension before your authorized stay expires.
Do children need their own Brazil eVisa?
Yes. Every traveler, including children and infants, needs their own eVisa application and must pay the full $80.90 USD fee. Parents or guardians can complete the application on behalf of their children, but each child must have a separate application and approval.
Is the Brazil eVisa linked to my Canadian passport?
Yes. The eVisa is electronically linked to your passport number. If you get a new Canadian passport after your eVisa is approved, you must apply for a new eVisa with the new passport number. Your old eVisa is not transferable to a new passport.
Can I use a third-party service to apply for my Brazil visa from Canada?
While third-party visa services exist, they submit the same application you can complete yourself on the official portal. These services typically charge $150-$300 USD or more for the same process. They cannot expedite processing and are not authorized by the Brazilian government. Applying directly through brazil.vfsevisa.com saves money and gives you direct control over your application.
What currency is the Brazil visa fee charged in?
The fee is charged in US dollars (USD), not Canadian dollars. Your credit card statement will show the USD amount converted to CAD at your bank’s exchange rate. Consider using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid additional charges. At typical 2026 exchange rates, expect to pay roughly $109-$113 CAD.
Can I apply for a Brazil eVisa if I have dual Canadian-Brazilian citizenship?
No. If you hold Brazilian nationality, you must enter and exit Brazil on a Brazilian passport. Brazilian law does not allow dual citizens to use a foreign passport for entry. If your Brazilian passport has expired, contact the Brazilian consulate in Canada to renew it before your trip.
