Key Takeaways
- U.S. citizens will need a visa to enter Brazil starting April 10, 2025
- The standard visitor visa (VIVIS) covers tourism, business, conferences, and short-term unpaid activities
- You can apply online for a Brazil e-Visa or submit a physical application
- Extensions are allowed once for a maximum stay of 180 days per 12 months
- For fast processing, see our Expedited Brazil Visa guide
Table of Contents
- Who Needs a Visa to Enter Brazil?
- What the Visitor Visa Covers
- Applying for a Brazil Visa
- Required Documents
- Business Travel to Brazil
- Student Visas for Brazil
- Duration, Validity, and Extensions
- Final Tips
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Brazil?
Beginning April 10, 2025, U.S. passport holders are required to obtain a visitor visa (VIVIS) before entering Brazil for tourism, business, transit, or short-term cultural and volunteer activities. This applies to both adults and minors.
If you're unsure whether your trip qualifies under the visitor visa, it's best to consult Brazil's official consular guidance or use a visa processing service like iVisa.
🌍 Need a Visa for Your Destination?
International travel often requires more than just a passport. With iVisa, you can check visa requirements, apply online, and get your travel documents fast — all in one place.
What the Visitor Visa Covers
The VIVIS visa is Brazil's general-purpose short-term visa. It allows you to:
- Visit for tourism, business, or transit
- Participate in academic conferences, cultural exchanges, volunteer work, and sports competitions
- Stay up to 90 days per entry, with the option to extend for an additional 90 days (max 180 days per 12 months)
What it doesn't allow: You cannot engage in paid work or receive income from Brazilian sources under a visitor visa.
Applying for a Brazil Visa
e-Visa (Recommended for Most Travelers)
- Apply online via the VFS Global platform
- Requires uploading your documents, paying a $80.90 fee, and waiting ~5 business days
- No need to mail your passport
Physical Visa Application (VIVIS)
- Submit documents by mail to the Brazilian Consulate
- Typically used when online application isn't possible
- Processing time: up to 15 business days
You can find details on how to apply quickly on our Expedited Brazil Visa page.
Required Documents
- Valid U.S. passport (with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages)
- Recent passport photo (2×2", white background)
- Round-trip flight itinerary
- Bank statement showing at least $2,000 in available funds
- Completed visa application (online or printed)
- Proof of U.S. residence (for physical applications)
- Return envelope (if mailing to the consulate)
For Minors:
- Birth certificate
- Notarized parental consent (if traveling alone or with one parent)
- ID from both parents or guardians
Business Travel to Brazil
The Visitor Visa (VIVIS) does cover business-related visits-but with clear boundaries. Here's what you can do under VIVIS and what may require a Business Visa:
Allowed Activities (Visitor Visa)
- Meetings with partners or clients
- Attend trade shows, conferences, or training
- Negotiate or sign contracts
- Participate in audits, business reporting, or consulting
- Work as crew for airlines or cruise lines (as long as income is from outside Brazil)
To qualify, you'll need a detailed letter from your U.S. employer stating:
- Your job title and purpose of the trip
- The Brazilian company or contact person you'll visit
- Financial responsibility for your expenses
What You Can't Do (Visitor Visa)
- Employment or paid work from Brazilian sources
- Activities such as teaching, paid drawing, or receiving salary from Brazil
When You Might Need a Business Visa (VITEM-III)
If your trip involves paid participation, professional training, or contracted work in Brazil, a Business Visa (VITEM-III) may be required.
This type is appropriate for:
- Paid speakers, trainers, or consultants working in Brazil
- Business operations lasting longer than visitor limits
- Professional roles such as auditing, scientific research, or technical assistance
For exact requirements, steps, and eligibility, check our full Business Visa Guide.
| Visa Type | Use Case | Need Employer Letter? | Paid from Brazil? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor (VIVIS) | Meetings, training, contract signings | ? Yes | ? No |
| Business (VITEM) | Paid activities, consulting, longer engagements | ? Yes | ? Yes |
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 standard visitor visa.
The student visa requires a different application process and supporting documents. Visit our Brazil Student Visa Guide for full details.
Duration, Validity, and Extensions
- Visa validity: usually 1 year, with multiple entries allowed
- Maximum stay per entry: 90 days
- Maximum stay per year: 180 days (including extensions)
You must apply for a visa extension before your initial 90-day period ends. Extensions are handled by the Brazilian Federal Police after arrival.
Final Tips
- Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your trip
- Use clear, high-resolution scans for uploads
- Be sure your passport won't expire during your stay
- Check your email frequently for updates or consular requests
Conclusion
Whether you're heading to Brazil for vacation, business meetings, or cultural exchanges, make sure your visa application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time. The visitor visa is versatile-but strict about purpose and duration.
If you're in a rush, explore options for expedited Brazil visa processing to avoid risking disrupting your travel plans.
🌍 Need a Visa for Your Destination?
International travel often requires more than just a passport. With iVisa, you can check visa requirements, apply online, and get your travel documents fast — all in one place.
