Brazil is reintroducing visa requirements for travelers from the US.
Brazil will reinstate visa requirements for travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia starting October 1, 2023. This is a reversal of a policy implemented by the previous administration in 2019, which exempted citizens of these countries from visa requirements.
The decision to reinstate visa requirements is being made by the new administration of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who took office in January 2023. Silva has said that he believes it is unfair for Brazil to allow visa-free travel to citizens of these countries while they still require visas from Brazilian citizens.
Under the new policy, US passport holders will need to apply for a Visit Visa (Vistos de Visita) in order to travel to Brazil. The visa can be applied for online and will be valid for up to 90 days.
Visa requirements for US travelers include:
- A valid passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the planned travel dates
- Proof of residency for non-US citizens
- A travel purpose statement
- Payment of a visa processing fee of $160
- Evidence of an outbound transportation ticket within 90 days of entry
- A comprehensive trip itinerary with hotel reservation/host invitation
- Proof of adequate financial means to sustain the visit
US passport holders should also be aware that their passport must have at least two blank pages, as per international travel regulations, to avoid being denied entry into Brazil.
The new visa requirements are expected to take effect on October 1, 2023. Travelers who plan to visit Brazil before that date should check with the Brazilian embassy or consulate in their home country for more information.