Brazil Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
visa type country
BR
business visa

Brazil Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

The Brazil Business Visa, officially part of the Visitor Visa (VIVIS) category, is designed for professionals travelling to Brazil for business purposes that do not involve local employment. This includes attending meetings, signing contracts, auditing, or exploring investment opportunities. It is a versatile visa that facilitates international trade and professional networking within South America's largest economy. Navigating the application process requires careful attention to the documentation provided by both your home employer and the host company in Brazil. Unlike a work permit, the business visa strictly prohibits receiving any compensation from Brazilian sources. It is essential to ensure your specific activities qualify under the 'Business' umbrella to avoid complications at the border. Please note that visa policies, including country exemptions and fee structures, are subject to frequent change. We strongly recommend verifying current requirements with the nearest Brazilian Embassy or Consulate before submitting your application.

Key highlights

  • Covers business meetings, trade fairs, and contract negotiations
  • Multiple-entry options often available for frequent travellers
  • Validity varies by nationality, often up to 5 or 10 years
  • Streamlined 'VIVIS' category for short-term professional visits
  • Permits attendance at conferences and corporate seminars
  • Allows for prospecting of investment opportunities in Brazil
  • Reciprocal fee structures based on the applicant's citizenship

Processing time

10-15 working days

Processing times fluctuate based on the specific consulate and the time of year. Summer and Carnival seasons often see longer wait times.

Estimated cost

$100 - $340

  • Consular Fee$80 - $290 (country dependent)
  • Service/Processing Fee$20 - $50

Requirements

  • Applicant must not receive any payment from a Brazilian source
  • Passport must be valid for at least six months from the entry date
  • Invitation letter from the Brazilian host organization is mandatory
  • Letter from current employer detailing the trip purpose and duration
  • Proof of legal status in the country where the application is made
  • Clean criminal record may be requested by certain consulates
  • Financial self-sufficiency must be demonstrated via bank statements
  • Non-refundable visa fee must be paid during the application process
  • Completed online visa application form (RER) with uploaded documents

Documents you'll need

  • Valid passport with at least two blank pages
  • Digital receipt of the online Visa Request Form (RER)
  • One recent passport-sized photo (white background)
  • A formal invitation letter from the Brazilian host company
  • Employment letter from the applicant’s current employer
  • Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements)
  • Round-trip flight itinerary or flight reservation
  • Proof of residence in the jurisdiction of application

How to apply, step by step

  1. 1

    Complete the Online Application

    Visit the official Brazilian government visa portal to fill out the Visa Request Form (RER). Upload digital copies of your photo, signature, and documents.

  2. 2

    Print and Sign the Receipt

    Print the Transaction Receipt (RER) generated after the online form submission. You must sign this and attach a physical passport photo to it.

  3. 3

    Locate your Consulate

    Check the specific Brazilian Consulate that serves your jurisdiction. Some require appointments, while others operate on a walk-in or mail-in basis.

  4. 4

    Pay the Consular Fee

    Pay the consular fee via the method specified by your local mission (often a USPS Money Order or bank transfer). Keep the proof of payment.

  5. 5

    Submit Documentation

    Submit your physical passport, the signed RER receipt, and all supporting documents (invitation letter, employer letter, bank statements) to the consulate.

  6. 6

    Wait for Processing

    Wait for the visa to be processed. You can usually track the status of your application online using the code provided on your RER receipt.

  7. 7

    Collect Your Visa

    Once approved, collect your passport in person or receive it via a pre-paid return envelope if the consulate provides that service.

Tips to avoid refusal

  • Ensure the invitation letter from Brazil explicitly mentions that no payment will be made to the applicant locally.
  • Upload all documents to the online portal before visiting the consulate to avoid delays.
  • Check your passport for 'blank' pages; Brazil requires 'Visas' pages, not 'Amendments' pages.
  • Confirm the reciprocal fee for your specific nationality, as these can vary significantly.
  • Do not book non-refundable flights until the visa is granted, as processing times are never guaranteed.
  • Double-check that the name on your application perfectly matches your passport spelling.

Frequently asked questions

Related visa guides

Brazil Visa Guide — Every Visa Type ExplainedBrazil Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing TimeBrazil Embassy & Consulate Guide
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.

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