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Brazil Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Brazil Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Brazil Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

If you are planning a trip to Brazil, following a few simple rules will ensure a smooth, hassle-free entry.

The most important rule when visiting Brazil is the visa requirement. All U.S. citizens are required to obtain a visa before entering Brazil. The rule took effect on April 10, 2025.

This guide covers all the important steps U.S citizens must take before traveling to Brazil, from US passport details and supporting documents to visa requirements and recommended vaccines.

Quick Summary: Brazil Entry Rules

Feature Details
Visa Required Yes. Must apply in advance.
Passport Validity Must be valid on the date of entry (no minimum months required). 6 months' validity is highly recommended.
Blank Pages At least one blank page is required for the entry stamp.
Mandatory Documents Approved Visa (or E-Visa) and Proof of onward/return travel.
Yellow Fever Vaccine Recommended for travel to specific areas (like the Amazon).

In a hurry? Apply online to get your visa, e-visa, ETA or eVOA fast.


US Passport & Brazil Visa Requirements

Before booking your trip to Brazil, ensure that your U.S. passport, relevant Brazil visa, and supporting documents are valid and ready for travel.

1. Passport Validity

Your U.S. passport must be valid on the date of your entry into Brazil. Unlike some countries, Brazil does not strictly require additional passport validity. However, having at least 6 months' validity remaining on your passport is always safer and highly recommended for all international travel.

2. Brazil Visa Requirement

U.S. citizens must have a visa (or E-Visa) before arriving in Brazil.

  • Tourism Visa: You must apply for a Brazil Visitor Visa (VIVIS) if visiting Brazil for tourism, business, or other short trips for up to 90 days. You must apply for this visa either online, through a Brazilian consulate, or through an assisted service (iVisa) before your trip.
  • Business Visa: If your trip involves paid participation, professional training, or contracted work in Brazil, a Business Visa (VITEM-III) is required.
  • Student Visa: If you're planning to study or intern in Brazil for more than 90 days, you'll need a Student Visa (VITEM-IV).

3. Blank Pages

Your U.S. passport must have at least one empty page so that the Brazilian Immigration Officer can place the entry stamp.

4. Proof of Departure from Brazil

Even with a valid U.S. passport and visa, you must be prepared to show proof that you plan to leave Brazil once your trip is over. Airline staff or border officers may request evidence of your departure from Brazil (e.g., a return flight home or a ticket to another country).

In a hurry? Apply online to get your visa, e-visa, ETA, or eVOA fast.

Health & Safety for Your Trip to Brazil

Here are the important things to know about staying healthy and following the local rules while in Brazil.

Required Vaccinations

  • Routine Vaccines: You need to be up-to-date on all common vaccines (e.g., measles, mumps, and rubella).
  • Yellow Fever: No vaccine is required if you are flying directly from the U.S. However, the yellow fever vaccine is strongly recommended if you plan to visit areas such as the Amazon rainforest or other inland states.
  • COVID-19 Rules: Brazil does not currently require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result for travelers entering the country.

Travel Security

The U.S. Department of State recommends that U.S. citizens exercise caution when traveling in Brazil, particularly in large cities, due to crime. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially your passport, visa, and ID.

For helpful advice and strategies, read our International Travel Safety – Tips for U.S. Citizens Traveling Abroad.

Additional Brazil Travel Requirements

Before you travel to Brazil, make sure you cover these final travel requirements:

1. Currency Rule

You must declare cash or currency (BRL or other) over $10,000 USD (or equivalent) to Customs. Also, you must provide proof of funds for the duration of your stay in Brazil. Typically, this can be proven by a bank statement showing at least $2,000 USD in available funds.

2. Minors

Children, including infants, must have their own valid US passport and an approved Brazil VIVIS to enter the country. Minors are required to travel with notarized consent from any parent not traveling with the child, and ID from the parent(s)/legal guardians(s).

3. Exit Rules

All visitors must leave at the end of their approved stay. The time you are allowed to stay is printed clearly on your visa or E-Visa approval notice. You may not stay beyond your approved time.

Essential Travel Resources for Your Trip to Brazil

Brazil Entry Requirements Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need a visa to enter Brazil now?

A: Yes. A visa is mandatory for all U.S. citizens traveling to Brazil. The rule took effect on April 10, 2025.

Q: Does my US passport need 6 months' validity?

A: No. Your passport must be valid only on the date of entry to Brazil. However, many airlines and travel guides recommend having at least 6 months of extra validity to avoid any travel issues.

Q: Do I need to declare my cash to Customs when I enter Brazil?

A: That depends. If you enter or leave Brazil with cash or currency worth more than $10,000 USD (or equivalent), you must declare it to Customs officials.

Q: What is the rule for minors (children) traveling alone or with one parent?

A: All minors must have valid US passports and visas. If a child is traveling alone or with only one parent, they must carry a notarized consent letter from the parent(s)/legal guardian(s) who are not traveling with them.

Q: Do I need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter Brazil?

A: No. Brazil currently does not require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or testing to enter the country.

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About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.

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