If you are planning a trip to Brazil, you must be aware of a recent change: U.S. citizens are now (as of April 10, 2025) required to obtain a visa before entering the country. This change has been in effect since April 10, 2025.
The easiest way to get this visa is by applying for the Brazil Visitor Visa (VIVIS), which covers tourism, business meetings, and short trips. Please note: This visa must be approved before you leave the U.S.
This guide provides the simple facts you need to know and the steps you must take to get your Brazil Visitor Visa (VIVIS) quickly and correctly.
Quick Summary: Brazil E-Visa (VIVIS)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Gov. Fee | $80.90 USD (Includes consular and processing fees). |
| Validity | Up to 10 years (Multiple Entry). |
| Maximum Stay | Up to 90 days per visit (max 180 days per year). |
| Application | Online (E-Visa) or Consular (Mail/In-Person). |
| Processing Time | Typically, 5–10 business days. |
| Purpose | Tourism, business meetings (unpaid), conferences, and short study. |
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What is the Brazil Visitor Visa (VIVIS)?
The VIVIS is the official visa you need for short trips to Brazil. The Brazilian government issues the VIVIS, which allows foreign visitors to enter Brazil for non-working (i.e., unpaid) reasons.
Do I Need the Brazil Visitor Visa?
Yes, you need a visa to enter Brazil. This rule applies to all U.S. citizens, including adults and children, traveling to Brazil for short stays up to 90 days.
You must get a VIVIS if your purpose is:
- Traveling for tourism and sightseeing.
- Attending business meetings, conferences, or trade shows (unpaid).
- Visiting family or friends.
- Engaging in volunteer or cultural activities.
- Studying (short-term).
- Competing in sports competitions.
Note: The VIVIS is a visa, not just a travel card. The Brazilian government must approve your VIVIS application before traveling to Brazil.
VIVIS Features: Cost and Duration
The Brazil Visitor Visa is a crucial document that grants foreign visitors long-term validity for multiple visits to Brazil.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Gov. Fee | $80.90 USD (This fee covers the electronic visa process). |
| Validity Period | Typically, 10 years from the date of issue. |
| Entries | Multiple Entries are allowed during the 10-year validity. |
| Maximum Stay per Visit | Up to 90 days per visit. |
| Maximum Stay per Year | You can stay a total of 180 days (6 months) in Brazil within a 12-month period. |
Applying for Your VIVIS: E-Visa or Consular
You have three options when applying for a Brazil VIVIS:
- Physical Visa Application: This route requires you to submit documents by mail or in person at a Brazilian Consulate.
- E-Visa: This process is done entirely online through the official VFS Global platform. You upload your documents, pay the fee, and receive the visa electronically (as a PDF) via email. You do not need to mail your passport.
- For details, see Brazil E-Visa for US Citizens: Your Essential Travel Guide.
- Using an Assisted Service (iVisa): Applying for the Brazil VIVIS e-Visa requires collecting and uploading documents that meet strict standards (e.g., bank statements and photos). iVisa provides a simple, trusted service to help. Their experts review your application, make sure you have provided all required documents, check your application for errors, and guide you through the entire process, making sure your application is perfect before submission so that you don’t have to worry about a potential denial or delay.
In a hurry? You can find details on how to apply quickly on our Expedited Brazil Visa page.
The Official Brazil VIVIS Process: A 3-Step Guide
You should plan to apply well ahead of your travel date to allow for processing time.
| Processing Time (Standard): | Up to 10 business days after a complete application is submitted. |
| Recommendation: | Apply 4 to 6 weeks before your intended departure date. |
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
- Your valid U.S. passport (must be at least valid until the end of your trip; 6 months’ validity is highly recommended) with at least 1 blank passport page.
- A recent passport-style photo (2" x 2", white background).
- A completed visa application form.
- Your round-trip flight itinerary.
- Proof of Funds: A bank statement showing sufficient funds for your stay (recommend showing at least $2,000 USD).
- For Minors: You need the child's birth certificate, a notarized consent from any parent not traveling with the child, and ID from parent(s)/legal guardians(s).
Important Health Note
- Yellow Fever Vaccination: While generally not mandatory for entry unless arriving from specific countries (like Colombia or Peru), the Yellow Fever vaccine is highly recommended for most travelers visiting Brazil. You should get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
Step 2: Apply and Upload Documents
- Visit a Brazilian Consulate, access the official VFS Global portal, or use an accredited service like iVisa.
- Fill out the application form very carefully; mistakes can cause denials or delays.
- Gather or upload all mandatory documents, including your passport page, photo, financial proof, and flight/travel itinerary.
Step 3: Pay and Receive Your E-Visa
- Double-check your application for any errors.
- Pay the non-refundable $80.90 USD government fee.
- Submit your complete VIVIS application.
Confirmation: Once approved (after up to 10 business days), your E-Visa will be sent to your email address as a PDF document. You must print this document and carry it with you when you travel.
Beyond the Brazil VIVIS: Important Rules
The VIVIS has strict limits that all holders must follow.
An approved VIVIS does not guarantee entry into Brazil. Federal Police officers at the border make the final decision.
Be prepared to show:
- Printed E-Visa: You must carry a printed copy of your visa.
- Valid US Passport: Must be at least valid for your entire stay (6 months’ validity is highly recommended) with at least 1 blank passport page.
- Return Ticket: Proof of a ticket showing your departure from Brazil.
Note on Business Travel
If your trip is for business (e.g., meetings, signing contracts), the VIVIS covers it. You should carry a letter from your U.S. employer explaining the trip's purpose and stating that the company will cover your costs.
Important: You cannot engage in any paid work or receive income from Brazilian sources while on this visa. If your trip involves paid participation, professional training, or contracted work in Brazil, a Business Visa (VITEM-III) may be required.
Note on Student Visas for Brazil
If you're planning to study or intern in Brazil for more than 90 days, you'll need a VITEM-IV (student visa) instead of the VIVIS.
The student visa requires another application process and supporting documents. Visit our Brazil Student Visa Guide for details.
Brazil Visitor Visa (VIVIS) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: Yes. If you have a regular Brazil visa (which is usually valid for 10 years), it remains valid until the expiration date printed on the sticker. You do not need a new VIVIS until your old visa expires.
A: You can stay a maximum of 180 days (6 months) in Brazil within any 12-month period using your VIVIS.
A: Yes. You can apply for one extension of 90 days inside Brazil at the Federal Police before your initial 90-day period expires.
A: No. The VIVIS is strictly for visitors. It does not allow you to accept a job or be paid by a Brazilian company, nor is it a business visa. The Brazil Visitor Visa (VIVIS) covers tourism, business meetings, and short trips (up to 90 days) only.
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