New Visa Requirements for Travellers from Australia, Canada, and US Visiting Brazil

Important updates for travellers planning a trip to Brazil! As of Wednesday, April 10, 2024, citizens from Australia, Canada, and the United States holding regular passports will need a visa to enter Brazil. This applies regardless of your mode of travel – air, sea, or land.

Here’s what you need to know

Delayed Implementation

Originally slated for January 10th, the visa requirement was postponed to April to allow additional time for setting up the system properly. This delay aimed to prevent disruptions to Brazilian tourism during the peak travel season at the year’s onset.

Extended Stays Require VITEM V Visa

Upon arrival, travellers will receive an eVisa allowing a stay in Brazil for up to 90 days. However, for longer stays or work-related purposes, individuals will need to obtain a different visa, such as the VITEM V temporary work visa.

Longer Stays and Work Visas

These regulations apply to visitors staying in Brazil for up to 90 days, with an option to extend their stay for another 90 days, provided they do not exceed 180 days within 12 months.

Previously, the e-visa allowed a stay of up to two years, with a 90-day duration per entry for tourism or business purposes. Sports or artistic performers could stay for up to 90 cumulative days per year.

Cost of e-Visa

Travellers intending to visit Brazil from Australia, Canada, or the US must apply for an electronic visa, or e-Visa, which can be completed online at a cost of $80.90.

Also Read: New Zealand Implements Changes to the Employment Visa Program

Implementation Details

The implementation of this visa requirement overturns a previous decision made by the government of President Jair Bolsonaro in March 2019, which exempted tourists from these countries, along with Japan, from needing visas.

The reinstatement of visa requirements for these countries emphasizes the principle of fairness, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil.

Removal of Japan from the Visa Requirement List

Conversely, Japan was removed from the list in May 2023 following an agreement between Brazil and Japan to waive visa requirements for each other’s citizens. This agreement, effective since September of the same year, allows for visa-free trips of up to 90 days.

Reasoning Behind the Change

The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the principle of reciprocity, explaining the reinstatement of visa requirements. Notably, Japan was recently removed from the list due to a separate visa waiver agreement between the two countries.

Staying Informed

To inform travellers from the affected countries about the new visa requirement, Brazil’s International Tourism Promotion Agency (Embratur) has initiated a campaign in collaboration with tour operators and airlines.

Simplified Application Process

The good news? The entire eVisa application process is online, eliminating the need for consulate visits. Documents can be uploaded digitally, and the approved visa will be delivered via email for printing and presentation with your passport upon arrival in Brazil.

Planning your trip to Brazil? Make sure to factor in the new eVisa requirement to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry!