Brazil requires a visa for citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia traveling for tourism, business, or transit as of April 10, 2025. The Brazil eVisa costs $80.90, remains valid for 10 years, and permits stays of up to 90 days per visit. This guide covers every document, eligibility rule, and step you need to complete your Brazil visa application successfully.
Who Needs a Visa for Brazil?
Brazil reinstated the visa requirement for US, Canadian, and Australian citizens on April 10, 2025, ending a brief visa-free period. If you hold a passport from the United States, Canada, or Australia, you must obtain a visa before traveling to Brazil for tourism, business activities, artistic events, or sports competitions.
Citizens Who Need a Brazil Visa
The Brazil eVisa program currently serves three nationalities:
- United States citizens – Required since April 10, 2025
- Canadian citizens – Required since April 10, 2025
- Australian citizens – Required since April 10, 2025
Citizens of most other countries should check their specific visa requirements with the Brazilian consulate or the official portal at brazil.vfsevisa.com. Many nationalities from South America, the European Union, and parts of Asia enjoy visa-free entry to Brazil for short stays.
Who Does NOT Need a Brazil Visa?
Brazil grants visa-free entry to citizens of over 80 countries, including:
- All Mercosur member and associate states (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and others)
- All European Union member states
- United Kingdom citizens
- Japan and South Korea citizens
- New Zealand citizens
These travelers can enter Brazil without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism and business purposes. However, they still need a valid passport and may need to meet other entry requirements.
Brazil eVisa: Key Requirements at a Glance
The Brazil eVisa is an electronic visa that US, Canadian, and Australian citizens apply for entirely online. No embassy visit is required. The application is processed through the official portal at brazil.vfsevisa.com.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible nationalities | US, Canada, Australia |
| Visa fee | $80.90 USD |
| Validity | Up to 10 years |
| Maximum stay | 90 days per visit |
| Processing time | Up to 10 business days |
| Application method | Online only |
| Official portal | brazil.vfsevisa.com |
What the Brazil eVisa Allows
The Brazil eVisa covers several travel purposes:
- Tourism – Sightseeing, vacation, visiting family or friends
- Business – Meetings, conferences, negotiations, contract signing
- Artistic activities – Performances, exhibitions, cultural events
- Sports – Competitions, athletic events, sports tourism
- Transit – Passing through Brazil en route to another country
The eVisa does not authorize employment, long-term study, or permanent residence in Brazil. For those purposes, you need a different visa category (VITEM).
Documents Required for Brazil eVisa
You need four core documents to apply for a Brazil eVisa: a valid passport, a passport-style photo, proof of immigration status, and a completed health declaration. Each document must meet specific formatting and validity requirements.
1. Valid Passport
Your passport is the most critical document for the Brazil eVisa application. It must meet these requirements:
- Validity: At least 6 months of remaining validity from your planned date of entry into Brazil
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank visa pages (not including amendment pages)
- Condition: No significant damage, tears, or water stains
- Format: Upload a clear scan of the passport’s biographical page
Important: If you hold dual nationality with Brazil, you cannot apply for the eVisa. Brazilian citizens must travel on a Brazilian passport. If you possess an expired Brazilian passport, you must provide proof of renunciation of Brazilian nationality before applying for the eVisa.
2. Passport-Style Photograph
Brazil requires a specific passport photo format for the eVisa application:
- Size: 2 inches x 2 inches (51mm x 51mm)
- Background: Clear, plain, white or light-colored background
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Expression: Neutral facial expression, eyes open and visible
- Accessories: No head coverings (except for religious purposes), no tinted glasses
- Format: Digital upload (JPEG or PNG), high resolution, no shadows
3. Proof of Immigration Status
Applicants must provide documentation proving their legal residency status in their country of residence:
- US citizens: Copy of a valid US passport (already included)
- Green card holders (non-US citizens applying from the US): Copy of permanent resident card
- Residents of Canada/Australia: Copy of resident card, work permit, or study permit
- Visa holders in another country: Copy of valid visa showing legal immigration status
Note: The Brazilian consulates do not accept US B1/B2 visa holders or applicants with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) who are not citizens of the US, Canada, or Australia.
4. Health Declaration Form
All passengers traveling to Brazil must complete a health declaration form within 72 hours prior to their flight. This is a mandatory requirement for entry:
- Complete the form online through the official Brazilian health portal
- Provide your flight details, accommodation address in Brazil, and health information
- Save or print the confirmation receipt to present at immigration
Brazil eVisa Application Process: Step by Step
The Brazil eVisa application is completed entirely online through the official portal. Follow these steps to submit a successful application.
Step 1: Create an Account on the Official Portal
Visit brazil.vfsevisa.com and create a user account. You will need:
- A valid email address (used for all correspondence)
- A secure password
- Your personal details (full name as it appears on your passport, date of birth, nationality)
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the online application form with accurate information:
- Personal information – Full name, date of birth, place of birth, gender
- Passport details – Passport number, issue date, expiration date, issuing country
- Travel information – Intended arrival date, purpose of visit, accommodation address in Brazil
- Employment details – Current occupation and employer information
- Background questions – Criminal history, previous visa denials, health declarations
Critical: All information must match your passport exactly. Discrepancies between your application and passport can result in delays or denial.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Upload the following documents in the required formats:
- Passport biographical page scan (clear, high resolution)
- Passport-style photograph (2×2 inches, plain background)
- Proof of immigration status (if applicable)
- Any additional supporting documents requested
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
The Brazil eVisa fee is $80.90 USD per applicant. Payment is made online through the portal using:
- Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
- Debit card
The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Each traveler, including children and infants, needs a separate eVisa and must pay the full fee.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
After submission, your application enters the processing queue:
- Standard processing: Up to 10 business days
- Peak travel seasons (December-February, June-July): Processing may take longer
- Status tracking: Log in to your portal account to check application status
You will receive an email notification when your eVisa is approved. Download and print the eVisa approval to carry with your passport during travel.
Brazil Visa Photo Requirements
Brazil has strict photo requirements that differ slightly from US passport photo standards. Failing to meet these specifications is a common reason for application delays.
Photo Specifications
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Size | 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) |
| Background | Plain white or light-colored |
| Head position | Centered, facing directly at camera |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Eyes | Open and clearly visible |
| Glasses | No tinted lenses; clear glasses OK if no glare |
| Head coverings | Only for religious reasons; face must be fully visible |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Resolution | Minimum 600 x 600 pixels |
| Format | JPEG or PNG |
Common Photo Mistakes to Avoid
- Shadows on the face or background – Use even, diffused lighting
- Smiling or frowning – Maintain a neutral expression
- Wearing uniforms – Casual or professional attire only
- Low resolution or blurry images – Use a high-quality camera or phone
- Crop too tight or too loose – Head should occupy 50-69% of the frame height
Brazil Visa Eligibility Criteria
Beyond nationality, Brazil applies several eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. Failure to meet any of these conditions can result in visa denial.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of the United States, Canada, or Australia (for eVisa)
- Passport validity: At least 6 months remaining from entry date
- Purpose of visit: Tourism, business, artistic, sports, or transit only
- No Brazilian dual citizenship: If you hold Brazilian nationality, you must travel on a Brazilian passport
- No prior overstays: Previous overstays in Brazil may affect eligibility
- Clean background: No criminal convictions that would bar entry
Financial Proof
While the eVisa application does not typically require bank statements, Brazilian immigration officers at the port of entry may ask travelers to demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay. The commonly cited guideline is having access to at least $2,000 USD or equivalent, though this is not a fixed legal requirement. Proof can include:
- Recent bank statements
- Credit cards
- Cash (Brazilian Reais or foreign currency)
- Proof of prepaid accommodation and return flights
Health Requirements
Brazil does not currently require COVID-19 vaccination proof for entry. However:
- A Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended (and may be required) if traveling to certain regions, particularly the Amazon basin
- The health declaration form must be completed within 72 hours before departure
- Travelers from countries with active Yellow Fever transmission may need to show proof of vaccination
Brazil Visa Validity and Stay Duration
The Brazil eVisa is valid for up to 10 years from the date of issue, making it one of the longest-validity electronic visas available. Understanding the difference between validity and permitted stay is essential.
Validity vs. Stay Duration
| Term | Meaning | eVisa Details |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | How long you can use the visa to enter Brazil | Up to 10 years |
| Stay duration | How long you can remain in Brazil per visit | Up to 90 days |
| Extension | Can you extend your stay? | Once, for an additional 90 days |
Multiple Entry
The Brazil eVisa permits multiple entries during its validity period. You can:
- Enter and leave Brazil as many times as needed within the 10-year validity
- Stay up to 90 days per entry
- Apply for a one-time extension of 90 days at a Federal Police office in Brazil (total maximum: 180 days per year)
Overstay Penalties
Overstaying your permitted 90-day stay in Brazil carries consequences:
- Daily fine assessed by the Federal Police upon departure
- Potential ban from re-entering Brazil for a period determined by the length of overstay
- Difficulty obtaining future visas for Brazil and potentially other countries
To extend your stay beyond 90 days, visit a Policia Federal office before your authorized stay expires. The extension costs a fee and requires justification.
Brazil eVisa vs. Consular Visa
The eVisa is the fastest and most convenient option for eligible travelers, but a traditional consular visa remains available for those who prefer it or need a different visa category. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right path.
| Feature | eVisa | Consular Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Online | In person at consulate |
| Eligible nationalities | US, Canada, Australia | All nationalities |
| Visa types | Tourism, business, transit | All types (including work, study) |
| Fee | $80.90 | Varies by type and nationality |
| Processing time | Up to 10 business days | 1-3 weeks |
| Interview | Not required | May be required |
| Validity | Up to 10 years | Varies |
When to Choose a Consular Visa
You need a consular visa instead of an eVisa if you are:
- Traveling for work purposes (requires VITEM V)
- Enrolling in studies in Brazil (requires VITEM IV)
- Applying for permanent residence
- A national not eligible for the eVisa program
- A Brazilian dual national who needs to regularize your status
Common Reasons for Brazil Visa Denial
Brazil visa applications can be denied for several preventable reasons. Understanding these common pitfalls helps you submit a clean application the first time.
Top Denial Reasons
- Invalid passport – Less than 6 months validity or fewer than 2 blank pages
- Photo non-compliance – Wrong size, background color, or expression
- Information mismatch – Application details do not match passport
- Incomplete documentation – Missing proof of status or other required files
- Previous overstay – History of overstaying in Brazil
- Criminal background – Undisclosed criminal convictions
- Brazilian dual nationality – Applying for eVisa when holding Brazilian citizenship
- Payment issues – Declined credit card or incomplete fee payment
How to Avoid Denial
- Double-check all information against your passport before submitting
- Use a professional photo service that understands Brazilian visa photo specs
- Apply early – at least 3-4 weeks before your travel date
- Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records
- Monitor your email for requests for additional information from the processing team
FAQs About Brazil Visa Requirements
Do US citizens need a visa for Brazil in 2026?
Yes. US citizens must obtain a visa to enter Brazil as of April 10, 2025. The most convenient option is the Brazil eVisa, which costs $80.90, is valid for up to 10 years, and allows stays of 90 days per visit. Apply online at brazil.vfsevisa.com.
How much does a Brazil visa cost?
The Brazil eVisa costs $80.90 USD per applicant. This fee applies to all eligible nationalities (US, Canada, Australia) and is non-refundable. Each traveler, including children and infants, must pay the full fee. Payment is made by credit or debit card during the online application.
How long does it take to get a Brazil visa?
Standard processing for the Brazil eVisa takes up to 10 business days. During peak travel seasons (December through February and June through July), processing may take longer. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your planned departure to account for potential delays.
What documents do I need for a Brazil visa?
You need four documents: (1) a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity and 2 blank pages, (2) a 2×2-inch passport-style photo with a plain background, (3) proof of immigration status in your country of residence, and (4) a completed health declaration form submitted within 72 hours before your flight.
Can I work in Brazil with an eVisa?
No. The Brazil eVisa only permits tourism, business meetings, artistic activities, sports, and transit. To work in Brazil, you need a VITEM V work visa, which requires a separate application through the Brazilian consulate with employer sponsorship.
Is the Brazil eVisa a multiple-entry visa?
Yes. The Brazil eVisa allows multiple entries during its 10-year validity period. You can enter and exit Brazil as many times as needed, with each stay limited to a maximum of 90 days. You may also apply for a one-time 90-day extension at a Federal Police office in Brazil.
Do I need $2,000 to enter Brazil?
Brazil does not have a fixed legal requirement to carry $2,000 USD. However, immigration officers may ask travelers to demonstrate sufficient financial means for their stay. Having proof of funds (bank statements, credit cards, or cash) equivalent to roughly $100 per day of your planned stay is a practical guideline.
Can green card holders apply for the Brazil eVisa?
Green card holders who are citizens of the United States, Canada, or Australia can apply for the Brazil eVisa. However, green card holders who are citizens of other countries are not eligible for the eVisa and must apply for a consular visa. The consulates do not accept US B1/B2 visa holders or TPS holders for the eVisa.
What happens if I overstay my Brazil visa?
Overstaying your authorized 90-day stay results in a daily fine assessed by the Federal Police upon departure. Extended overstays can lead to a re-entry ban and difficulty obtaining future visas for Brazil and other countries. To stay longer, visit a Federal Police office before your authorized stay expires to apply for an extension.
Do I need a Yellow Fever vaccination to visit Brazil?
Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended for all travelers visiting certain regions of Brazil, particularly the Amazon basin and states like Amazonas, Acre, and Rondonia. Some countries require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if arriving from Brazil. Check the latest health advisories before your trip.
