Is Brazil on your travel destination list in 2025? As an American traveler, there are some big changes that you need to know. This includes visa updates and new immigration procedures. Let’s talk about what is changing and how it may affect your travel plans. Instead of stressing over paperwork, you can focus on packing your bags!
Key Visa Changes for 2025
Starting in April of 2025, Americans will need a visa to travel to Brazil. The new eVisa program is an electronic visa program that will make applying for a visa faster and more convenient than traditional methods. There are a few things to know before you go.
Timeline of eVisa
The eVisa program will go into effect on April 10th, 2025. Before this date, Americans did not need a visa to visit Brazil. Here is the timeline for the visa changes.
- January 2025: The eVisa application portal goes live. You can pay online. No need to go to a consulate or embassy.
- February-March 2025: The Brazilian government begins processing applications. Most eVisas should be approved in 5-7 business days.
- April 1st-9th 2025: Last-minute applications are accepted, but apply early to prevent delays.
- April 10th, 2025: An eVisa or visa becomes mandatory for all American travelers going to Brazil.
Pro tip: Do NOT wait until the last minute to apply. Although processing for an eVisa can be fast, you want to make sure you have your visa well before you leave for your trip to Brazil.
Visa and Passport Documentation
There are other documents you will need to enter into Brazil. If you’re traveling for business or pleasure, it is important to have the right paperwork.
Required Documents for Entry
- A valid passport, see below
- A visa or an eVisa
- Proof of onward travel: a return ticket or a travel reservation leaving Brazil.
- Proof of accommodation: you can show your hotel reservation or an invitation letter
Passport Validity Requirements
Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after your departure from Brazil. If your passport is expiring within 6 months of your travel date, renew your passport. You can apply for your visa after you receive your new passport. I have had a friend turned away at the airport because their passport expired in 6 months.
Immigration Procedures
Once have all your documents, you will be ready to go to Brazil. Here is what the immigration process should look like when you arrive and leave Brazil.
Arrival Procedures in Brazil
When you land in Brazil, you will go through immigration at your point of entry. The immigration officers will check your passport and your visa. Make sure you have all your documents that were mentioned previously. The immigration officers may as you some questions while they are reviewing your passport. Don’t worry just answer their questions and explain the nature of your trip.
Departure Procedures in Brazil
Leaving Brazil should be much easier than entering as long as you didn’t overstay your visa. When you leave you, you will go through passport control and they will stamp your passport with an exit stamp. If you plan to stay for more than a 3 months, you will need to apply for a long term visa.
Transportation Options
Getting around Brazil is part of the adventure, but it’s important to plan ahead. Here’s what you need to know about connecting flights and airport transfers. Brazil is a very large country and you may need to take local flights in order to explore different parts of the country. If you are flying locally, here is what you need to know about connecting flights and airport transfers.
Connecting Flights: What to Consider
If you have a connecting flight within Brazil, give yourself plenty of time in between flights. Sometimes international connections can be tight and you do not want to miss your next flight because your initial flight was delayed. Aim for a connection time of least 2-3 hours. If you are changing airports, you may want to budget even more time.
Airport Transfers: Available Services
Once you get to Brazil, you will need transportation to get you your hotel or your next destination. Luckily you can find many modes of transportation at the airport.
- Taxis: Widely available at all the major airport. Look for official taxi services in order to avoid getting scamed.
- Ride-sharing apps: Good news! Uber is also available in big cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
- Shuttle services: Some hotels offer shuttles from the aiports. Check with your hotel before making your reservation. The shuttle may even be free!
Unique Travel Features in Brazil
Brazil is a country full of surprises. There are some interesting rules that you may not know about when staying in Brazil.
Waste Management Policies: Toilet Paper Disposal
This may come as a strange tip but, you can’t flush the toilet paper in Brazil. The plumbing was not designed to handle tissue paper, only natural wast. In all the bathrooms you will find small trash bins where you can throw away the toilet tissue. It may be a small adjustment but it is definitely something you need to know before clog the toilet and flood your hotel bathroom!
Safety Regulations: Seatbelt Laws
Seatbelt laws in Brazil are very strict. Just like being in America, everyone in the care needs to where a seatbelt. Now this is something that is not unfamiliar with Americans. Whether you are the driver or the passenger, make sure you buckle up. If you are caught without your seatbelt, the fines can be huge and definitely not worth the risk.
Cost of eVisa
Unfortunately, the eVisa is not free, but it is affordable. Put the cost of the visa into your travel budget to make sure you aren’t overspending on this vacation.
- Application Fee: $80 per person.
- Processing Fee: An additional $20
- Total Cost: $100 per person. This is a one-time non-refundable fee, even if your application is denied.
Applying for eVisas
There are a few things you will need in order to apply for your eVisa.
Steps to Apply for an eVisa
- Upload your required documents
- Complete the visa application form online
- Pay the visa fee
- Submit your application, track the status and wait for approval.
Commonly Required Documents
When applying for your visa, you’ll typically need:
- A valid passport
- 2×2 passport photo with a white background
- Proof of a travel reservation leaving Brazil
- Proof of a hotel reservation or an invitation letter
- Bank statements showing a minimum balance over $2000
Reciprocity in Visa Policies
Brazil’s visa policies are based on reciprocity. Since the U.S. requires Brazilians to have a visa for enter, Brazil will now require the same for Americans. This is why Americans will need a visa to visit Brazil but citizens of some other countries do not.
How Dual Citizenship Affects Visa Requirements
If you’re a dual citizen of Brazil, traveling on a valid Brazilian passport, you do not need an eVisa.
Dealing with eVisa Application Denials
If your eVisa application is denied, you will have to apply for a normal visa. You can review the reason you were denied, address all issues and then apply for a consular visa.
FAQs
Do Americans need a visa to visit Brazil in 2025?
Yes. Starting on April 10th, 2025, Brazil requires Americans to get an eVisa.
How long does it take to get a Brazilian visa?
The processing time usually takes 5 days but there can be delays. To be safe, you should apply at least 4-6 weeks before your departure date.
Can I apply for a Brazilian eVisa online?
Yes. The eVisa portal is open and accepting applications.
How long does the eVisa last?
The eVisa is valid for 5 years and multiple entries. If your passport expires before your eVisa. You can bring your new passport and your expired passport that was used on eVisa application. The immigration offices will use both of these for entry into Brazil.
For more information on traveling to Brazil, check out these helpful resources:
- Brazil eVisa Information Page
- Brazil’s Official Government Website
- U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories
- IATA Travel Centre
Start planning your trip and apply for your eVisa early. Safe travels to Brazil!