How to Apply for a Visa to Brazil
Brazil is a vibrant destination for tourism, business, and study. Many travellers can visit visa-free, but some nationalities must apply for a visa in advance or use the new Brazil eVisa system. If you plan to work, study, or live long-term, you’ll need the appropriate temporary or permanent visa.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main visa types, and how to apply step by step.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa-free entry:
Citizens of most EU countries, UK, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, South Africa, New Zealand and several others can visit Brazil for up to 90 days (extendable once for another 90 days). - Visa required:
Citizens of India, China, Russia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and many African/Middle Eastern countries must apply for a visa before travelling. - eVisa available (2025):
Citizens of Australia, Canada, USA, and Japan can apply online for an eVisa for tourism, business, or transit.
✅ Check your entry requirements at the official Brazilian government portal: https://www.gov.br/mre
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (VIVIS) | Tourism, visiting family/friends | Up to 90 days, extendable to 180 |
| Business Visa (VIVIS) | Meetings, trade, conferences | Up to 90 days |
| Transit Visa (VIVIS Transit) | Passing through Brazil | Up to 10 days |
| Temporary Visa (VITEM) | Work, study, research, voluntary work | 1–2 years (renewable) |
| Student Visa (VITEM-IV) | Full-time study | Length of program |
| Work Visa (VITEM-V) | Employment with a Brazilian company | Up to 2 years, renewable or convertible to permanent |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Remote work with foreign income | Up to 1 year, renewable |
| Permanent Residence | Family reunification, retirement, investment | Indefinite |
3. Applying for a Short-Stay Tourist or Business Visa
Step 1 — Check if You Qualify for eVisa
- If you are from Australia, Canada, USA, or Japan, apply online: https://brazil.vfsevisa.com
- Otherwise, you must apply at the nearest Brazilian consulate.
Step 2 — Prepare Required Documents
Typically:
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond your stay
- Completed visa application form (online)
- Passport-style photo (white background)
- Proof of return/onward travel
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation)
- Bank statements or proof of funds
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Visa fee payment
Step 3 — Submit Application
- eVisa: Upload documents, pay online, and wait for approval.
- Consular visa: Book an appointment and submit your passport and documents in person or via mail (if allowed).
Step 4 — Pay the Visa Fee
- eVisa: ~USD $80 (varies by nationality)
- Consular visa: Fees differ by country (often USD $80–160)
Step 5 — Processing Time
- eVisa: 5–10 working days
- Consulate visa: 7–15 working days (can be longer in busy periods)
4. Applying for Long-Stay (Temporary) Visas
Work Visa (VITEM-V)
- Requires a job offer and employer sponsorship.
- Employer applies to Brazil’s Ministry of Labor for approval.
- Once approved, apply at the Brazilian consulate with the work permit authorization.
Student Visa (VITEM-IV)
- Requires an acceptance letter from a Brazilian educational institution.
- Proof of funds, criminal record certificate, and health insurance often required.
Digital Nomad Visa
- Requires proof of remote income (~USD $1,500/month or USD $18,000 in savings).
- Apply at a Brazilian consulate with work contracts and income statements.
Permanent Residence
- Available for retirees (proof of pension ~$2,000/month), family reunification with a Brazilian spouse/child, or investors (minimum ~BRL 500,000 investment).
⚠️ Long-term visas may require criminal background checks, notarized translations, and apostille/legalisation of documents.
5. Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| eVisa (Tourist/Business) | USD $80 |
| Tourist/Business Visa (Consular) | USD $80–160 |
| Transit Visa | USD $40–60 |
| Work Visa (VITEM-V) | USD $100–200 |
| Student Visa (VITEM-IV) | USD $100–150 |
| Digital Nomad Visa | USD $100–150 |
| Permanent Residence | USD $200–300 |
Fees vary by nationality and are non-refundable.
6. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: At least 3–4 weeks before travel; long-term visas can take months.
- Use the official portals: For eVisas or consular applications — avoid unofficial websites.
- Check document translation rules: Many long-term visas require certified Portuguese translations.
- Health insurance recommended: Especially for long stays.
- Keep passport valid: Must be valid at least 6 months beyond your planned stay.
- For long-term visas: Get documents apostilled/legalized before submission.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months with blank pages
- Completed visa form (eVisa or consular)
- Passport photo (recent, white background)
- Proof of return flight & accommodation
- Bank statements or income proof
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Criminal background check (for long-term visas)
- Translations/apostille (if applying for work, study, or residence)