Do I need a visa to travel to Brazil?

Planning a trip to Brazil? Before you pack your bags, it’s essential to understand whether you need a visa to enter Brazil, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. This article covers everything you need to know about Brazilian visa requirements, visa types, how to apply, and where to get official information.

Visa requirements for Brazil: who needs a visa?

Brazil operates on a reciprocity visa policy. This means that if your country requires Brazilian citizens to obtain a visa, you’ll likely need one to enter Brazil.

Currently, citizens from about 90 countries benefit from visa-free travel to Brazil for short stays (up to 90 days). To verify your eligibility for visa exemption, always consult the official Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Brazilian consulate.

Where to apply for a Brazilian visa

Brazilian visas cannot be issued inside Brazil, including at airports, ports, or border checkpoints. All visa applications must be processed through Brazilian embassies, consulates, general consulates, or vice-consulates located abroad.

If you’re already in Brazil and need to extend your stay or apply for a residence permit, contact the Ministry of Justice (via the Federal Police) or the Ministry of Labour, depending on your visa type.

Types of Brazilian visas: find the right one for you

Brazil offers a range of visas tailored to different purposes and durations of stay. Visa categories are based on your reason for travel, not your passport type.

Visit visa (VIVIS)

The visit visa is intended for short-term stays up to 90 days with no intent of immigration or paid employment. It can be used for:

tourism
business trips
transit
cultural, artistic, or sports events (without pay)
study and volunteer work
attending meetings, conferences, seminars, or workshops

Note: Compensation such as per diems or travel costs may be accepted, but salaried work is not allowed.

Temporary visas (VITEM)

These visas allow longer stays and are designed for specific activities. Brazil offers several categories:

VITEM I – research, teaching, academic extension
VITEM II – health treatment
VITEM III – humanitarian purposes
VITEM IV – student visa
VITEM V – paid employment
VITEM VI – working holiday visa (with New Zealand, France, Germany)
VITEM VII – religious missions
VITEM VIII – voluntary service
VITEM IX – foreign investors
VITEM X – activities of national interest (science, tech, culture)
VITEM XI – family reunification
VITEM XII – artists and athletes (with pay)
VITEM XIII – Mercosur agreement-based residency
VITEM XIV – policy-based immigration
VICAM – foreign doctors

Diplomatic, official, and courtesy visas

These visas are issued for official state or diplomatic missions and specific cases of non-remunerated official visits. Categories include:

diplomatic visa
official visa
courtesy visa

Special visa rules for Mercosur citizens

If you’re a national of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, or Uruguay, you may qualify for temporary residence in Brazil without a visa. After two years, this can be converted into permanent residency, provided certain conditions are met through the Federal Police.

Visa requirements for minors

Applicants under 18 years old must include a written travel authorization signed by both parents, legal guardians, or approved by a judicial authority.

Invitation letter for Brazilian visa

Although not always required, an invitation letter can support your visa application. It should include:

full name and nationality of the visitor
purpose and duration of the stay
host’s details (name, address, contact)
notarization from a Brazilian public notary
original copy sent to the applicant

How to get accurate visa information

To avoid misinformation, always rely on official Brazilian government websites or contact your nearest Brazilian consulate or embassy. They provide updated requirements, document checklists, and the latest processing times.

Final tips: don’t risk entry denial

Travelers arriving without the proper visa will be denied entry into Brazil. Make sure to:

check your visa requirement based on nationality and trip purpose
apply through official consular channels
prepare all necessary documents, including notarized invitations and travel authorizations for minors

Conclusion

Understanding Brazil’s visa rules is crucial for a hassle-free trip. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, study, or work, identifying the correct visa and following official procedures ensures a smooth experience.

For up-to-date visa information, visit the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your local Brazilian consular representation.