Brazil offers several visa categories depending on the purpose and duration of your trip. Understanding the difference between VIVIS, VITEM, tourist visas, business visas, and the electronic visa (eVisa) is essential before you apply. This guide breaks down every Brazil visa type so you can choose the right one for your travel plans.
Overview of Brazil’s Visa System
Brazil’s visa system is managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty) and Brazilian consulates worldwide. The system divides visas into two main groups:
- VIVIS (Visto de Visitante) – short-term visitor visa for stays up to 90 days
- VITEM (Visto Temporário) – temporary visa for longer stays exceeding 90 days
Within these two groups, there are numerous subcategories based on the purpose of travel. Citizens of certain countries – including the United States, Canada, and Australia – must obtain a visa before entering Brazil. Since April 2025, these nationalities can apply for a streamlined eVisa online.
Brazil also maintains diplomatic and official visa categories (VIVIS-I and VIVIS-II) for government officials and international organization representatives, but these are not available to ordinary travelers.
VIVIS: Brazil’s Visitor Visa (Short-Term)
The VIVIS is Brazil’s standard short-term visa, designed for visits lasting up to 90 days. It covers the most common travel purposes and is the category that includes the popular eVisa option.
What VIVIS Covers
A VIVIS allows entry for:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Business meetings and conferences (without employment)
- Transit through Brazil to another destination
- Cultural and sporting events
- Journalism and media coverage
- Crew members of vessels or aircraft
- Medical treatment (short-term)
The VIVIS is granted for up to 90 days per entry and is typically valid for multiple entries over a 10-year period for US citizens (varies by nationality). You cannot extend a VIVIS beyond 90 days without leaving and re-entering the country.
eVisa Under VIVIS
Since April 10, 2025, citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia can apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) under the VIVIS category. The eVisa simplifies the application process by allowing travelers to apply entirely online without visiting a consulate.
Key eVisa details:
- Fee: $80.90 USD
- Processing time: Up to 10 business days
- Validity: 10 years (multiple entries)
- Maximum stay: 90 days per entry
- Apply at: brazil.vfsevisa.com (official portal)
The eVisa replaces the previous sticker visa that required an in-person consulate visit. However, if you prefer or if your nationality is not eligible for the eVisa, you can still apply for a traditional VIVIS at a Brazilian consulate.
VIVIS vs. Visa-Free Entry
Some nationalities enjoy visa-free entry to Brazil for short stays. Citizens of EU countries, the UK, Japan, South Korea, and many Latin American nations can enter Brazil without a visa for tourism purposes. However, US, Canadian, and Australian citizens must obtain either an eVisa or a traditional VIVIS before traveling.
VITEM: Brazil’s Temporary Visa (Long-Term)
The VITEM is Brazil’s temporary visa for stays longer than 90 days. There are several VITEM subcategories, each designed for a specific purpose. Unlike VIVIS, VITEM visas require a more detailed application process and often involve additional documentation.
VITEM I – Cultural or Academic Visa
Issued to researchers, scientists, professors, and cultural exchange participants. This visa requires a formal invitation from a Brazilian institution and proof of academic or cultural credentials.
- Duration: Up to 2 years (renewable)
- Requirements: Institutional invitation letter, CV, proof of qualifications
VITEM II – Business Visa (Long-Term)
For professionals conducting extended business activities in Brazil, such as managing investments, overseeing company operations, or participating in long-term commercial projects. This differs from the short-term business travel covered under VIVIS.
- Duration: Up to 90 days initially, extendable
- Requirements: Company letter, proof of business relationship, financial documentation
VITEM III – Athlete or Artist Visa
For professional athletes, artists, and entertainers performing or competing in Brazil. This includes soccer players, musicians on tour, and performers at festivals.
- Duration: Up to 90 days per entry
- Requirements: Contract or invitation from Brazilian organization
VITEM IV – Student Visa
For foreign nationals enrolled in Brazilian educational institutions, from language courses to university degree programs.
- Duration: Up to 1 year (renewable for the duration of studies)
- Requirements: Enrollment letter from Brazilian institution, proof of financial means, health insurance
VITEM V – Work Visa
The most common long-term visa for foreign workers employed by Brazilian companies. This visa requires employer sponsorship and approval from the Brazilian Ministry of Labor.
- Duration: Up to 2 years (renewable)
- Requirements: Employment contract, employer sponsorship, Ministry of Labor approval, criminal background check
VITEM VII – Religious or Missionary Visa
For clergy, missionaries, and religious workers serving in Brazil. Requires documentation from a recognized religious organization.
- Duration: Up to 1 year (renewable)
- Requirements: Letter from religious organization, proof of religious vocation
VITEM VIII – Medical Treatment Visa
For individuals seeking extended medical treatment in Brazil. Requires documentation from a Brazilian healthcare facility.
- Duration: Up to 1 year (renewable)
- Requirements: Medical appointment confirmation, proof of financial means to cover treatment
VITEM IX – Investment Visa
For foreign nationals making significant investments in Brazil. The minimum investment threshold is set by Brazilian immigration law.
- Duration: Up to 3 years (renewable)
- Requirements: Proof of investment (minimum amount varies), business plan, legal documentation
VITEM XI – Family Reunification Visa
For family members of Brazilian citizens or permanent residents, including spouses, children, and dependent parents.
- Duration: Up to 1 year (leads to permanent residence)
- Requirements: Proof of family relationship, marriage certificate or birth certificate, criminal background check
VITEM XIV – Digital Nomad Visa
Introduced in 2022 for remote workers employed by foreign companies who wish to live in Brazil while working remotely.
- Duration: Up to 1 year (renewable)
- Requirements: Proof of remote employment, minimum monthly income (approximately $1,500 USD), health insurance
Brazil Tourist Visa
The tourist visa is the most commonly requested visa type for Brazil. For US, Canadian, and Australian citizens, the tourist visa is now available as an eVisa, making the application process significantly easier.
Who Needs a Tourist Visa
Citizens of the following countries need a tourist visa to enter Brazil:
- United States – eVisa available since April 2025
- Canada – eVisa available since April 2025
- Australia – eVisa available since April 2025
- India – must apply at a Brazilian consulate
- China – must apply at a Brazilian consulate
- Many African and Asian nations – must apply at a consulate
Tourist Visa Requirements
Standard requirements for a Brazil tourist visa include:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photo meeting Brazil’s specifications
- Proof of onward travel (return flight ticket)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation letter)
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, typically showing at least $100/day of stay)
- Visa fee payment ($80.90 for eVisa)
Tourist Visa Duration and Validity
- Maximum stay per entry: 90 days
- Visa validity: Up to 10 years (multiple entries) for US citizens
- Extensions: You can extend your stay by up to 90 additional days at a Federal Police office in Brazil, for a maximum of 180 days per 12-month period
Brazil Business Visa
Brazil’s business visa allows foreign nationals to enter the country for commercial activities, including attending meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and negotiating contracts. It does not authorize employment in Brazil.
Short-Term Business Visa (VIVIS)
For business trips lasting up to 90 days, citizens of eligible countries can use the eVisa. This covers:
- Business meetings and negotiations
- Conferences and trade shows
- Contract signing
- Company site visits
- Market research trips
Long-Term Business Visa (VITEM II)
For extended business activities beyond 90 days, a VITEM II is required. This is common for:
- Foreign company representatives stationed in Brazil
- Investors managing Brazilian operations
- Business consultants on long-term projects
Business Visa Requirements
In addition to standard visa requirements, business visa applicants typically need:
- Letter from their employer stating the purpose of travel
- Invitation letter from the Brazilian company or organization
- Proof of business relationship (contracts, correspondence)
- Company registration documents
Diplomatic and Official Visas
Brazil issues special visa categories for government officials and international organization representatives:
- VIVIS-I (Diplomatic): For diplomatic passport holders on official business
- VIVIS-II (Official/Courtesy): For official or service passport holders
These visas are not available to ordinary travelers and are processed through government-to-government channels.
How to Choose the Right Visa Type
Use this quick reference to determine which visa you need:
| Travel Purpose | Visa Type | Duration | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vacation / sightseeing | VIVIS (eVisa) | Up to 90 days | Online at brazil.vfsevisa.com |
| Business meetings | VIVIS (eVisa) | Up to 90 days | Online at brazil.vfsevisa.com |
| Transit through Brazil | VIVIS (eVisa) | Up to 10 days | Online at brazil.vfsevisa.com |
| Study in Brazil | VITEM IV | Up to 1 year | Brazilian consulate |
| Work in Brazil | VITEM V | Up to 2 years | Brazilian consulate |
| Join family in Brazil | VITEM XI | Up to 1 year | Brazilian consulate |
| Remote work / digital nomad | VITEM XIV | Up to 1 year | Brazilian consulate |
| Investment in Brazil | VITEM IX | Up to 3 years | Brazilian consulate |
| Religious work | VITEM VII | Up to 1 year | Brazilian consulate |
| Medical treatment | VITEM VIII | Up to 1 year | Brazilian consulate |
Common Mistakes When Applying for a Brazil Visa
Avoid these frequent errors that lead to visa delays or rejections:
- Applying for the wrong visa type – A tourist visa does not allow employment. If you plan to work, you need a VITEM V.
- Insufficient passport validity – Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date.
- Missing financial proof – Consulates require evidence you can support yourself during your stay.
- Incorrect photo format – Brazil has specific photo requirements (white background, 5x7cm, recent).
- Applying too late – Processing can take up to 10 business days for eVisas and several weeks for consulate applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between VIVIS and VITEM?
VIVIS is a short-term visitor visa for stays up to 90 days, covering tourism, business meetings, and transit. VITEM is a temporary visa for longer stays exceeding 90 days, covering work, study, investment, and family reunification. The eVisa available to US, Canadian, and Australian citizens falls under the VIVIS category.
Can I work in Brazil on a tourist visa?
No. A tourist visa (VIVIS) does not authorize employment in Brazil. If you plan to work, you must apply for a VITEM V (work visa) with employer sponsorship and Ministry of Labor approval. Working on a tourist visa is a violation of Brazilian immigration law and can result in fines, deportation, and future visa bans.
How long does it take to get a Brazil eVisa?
The Brazil eVisa typically processes within 5 to 10 business days. However, during peak travel seasons (November through February, during Brazilian summer and Carnival), processing may take longer. Apply at least 3 weeks before your planned departure date to allow for any delays.
Can I extend my stay in Brazil beyond 90 days?
Yes, you can request a one-time extension of up to 90 additional days at a Federal Police (Polícia Federal) office in Brazil before your initial 90-day period expires. The total stay cannot exceed 180 days within a 12-month period. Extensions are not guaranteed and are subject to approval.
Do I need $2,000 to enter Brazil?
Brazil does not officially require tourists to show $2,000 in cash. However, immigration officers may ask for proof of financial means to support your stay. Bank statements, credit cards, or traveler’s checks are typically accepted. Having approximately $100 per day of planned stay as a guideline is recommended.
What is a Brazil digital nomad visa?
The VITEM XIV, introduced in 2022, allows remote workers employed by foreign companies to live in Brazil for up to 1 year. Applicants must prove remote employment, show a minimum monthly income of approximately $1,500 USD, and have valid health insurance. The visa is renewable for an additional year.
Can green card holders get a Brazil eVisa?
US green card holders should check whether their country of citizenship requires a visa for Brazil. The eVisa is based on nationality, not residence. If your passport nationality requires a visa, you must apply through the appropriate channel – either eVisa (if eligible) or at a Brazilian consulate.
