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Brazil Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained

Brazil offers a diverse range of visa categories tailored to tourists, business professionals, and long-term residents. Most travellers visiting for leisure or short-term business from 'visa-exempt' countries, such as the UK and most of Europe, do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, for nationalities not on the exempt list, or for those seeking to work, study, or retire in South America's largest nation, navigating the 'VITEM' and 'VIVIS' classification system is essential. Applying for a Brazilian visa typically involves a combination of an online registration (the RER form) and a physical submission of documents at a consulate or through a third-party provider. Brazil is known for its reciprocity policy, meaning the rules and fees often mirror those that the applicant's home country applies to Brazilian citizens. This guide provides a high-level overview of the requirements and steps necessary to secure your entry permit efficiently. Always verify specific requirements with your local Brazilian consulate before submitting.

Key highlights

  • Visa-free entry for British and EU citizens for up to 90 days.
  • VIVIS visitor visa covers tourism, business, and transit purposes.
  • Innovative Digital Nomad visa for remote workers with foreign income.
  • Investment visa options available for property owners and entrepreneurs.
  • VITEM study visas for students enrolled in recognised institutions.
  • Simple online 'RER' form required for all paper-based applications.
  • Reciprocal fee structures mean costs vary significantly by nationality.

Processing time

5-15 working days

Processing times are highly dependent on the specific consulate and the time of year (peak carnival season is slower). US, Canadian, and Australian citizens should check the latest e-visa updates.

Estimated cost

~$80 - $340

  • Consular Processing Fee$80 - $290 (varies by nationality/reciprocity)
  • VFS Global Service Fee (if applicable)$0 - $50

Requirements

  • Minimum 6 months passport validity from the date of intended entry.
  • Proof of sufficient funds (usually $150+ USD per day of stay).
  • Confirmed round-trip flight reservation or proof of exit from Brazil.
  • Residential address in the home country.
  • Completion of the online 'Recibo de Entrega de Requerimento' (RER).
  • A clean criminal record for all residency and long-term visa types.
  • No intent to seek permanent residency while on a visitor visa.
  • Payment of the consular fee (often non-refundable).
  • For work visas: An employment contract approved by the Brazilian Ministry of Labour.
  • For student visas: Proof of enrolment and financial support.

Documents you'll need

  • Valid passport with at least two blank pages and six months validity remaining
  • Digital passport-style photo (4x5cm) on a white background
  • Scanned copy of your round-trip flight itinerary or proof of onward travel
  • Bank statements from the last 3 months as proof of financial means
  • Online Visa Request Form (RER) delivery receipt
  • Proof of residential address (utility bill or ID)
  • Letter of invitation (if visiting friends/family) or hotel booking confirmation
  • Criminal record certificate (required for long-term residency visas only)

How to apply, step by step

  1. 1

    Identify Visa Category

    Determine if your nationality is visa-exempt or if you require a VIVIS (Visitor) or VITEM (Temporary) visa based on your purpose of travel.

  2. 2

    Complete the Online RER Form

    Visit the official Brazilian government portal to complete the Visa Request Form (RER) and upload your photo and signature.

  3. 3

    Print the Confirmation Receipt

    After finishing the online form, print the delivery receipt which contains your unique protocol number and barcode.

  4. 4

    Prepare Document Pack

    Gather all physical documents including your passport, bank statements, and flight itineraries as per the consulate's specific checklist.

  5. 5

    Pay the Consular Fee

    Pay the consular fee via the method specified by your local embassy (e.g., bank transfer, postal order, or debit card).

  6. 6

    Submit Your Application

    Depending on the consulate’s rules, book an appointment to submit your documents in person or send them via a registered courier.

  7. 7

    Wait for Processing and Collection

    Track your application status online using your protocol number and collect your passport once the visa has been issued.

Tips to avoid refusal

  • Upload all documents to the online RER portal before your appointment to speed up the process.
  • Ensure your photo strictly adheres to the 4x5cm format; standard UK passport photos are often rejected.
  • Check if your nationality attracts a 'reciprocity fee', which can significantly increase the total cost.
  • Avoid booking non-refundable flights until your visa is approved and in your possession.
  • Ensure your bank statements are recent (within the last 30 days) and show a clear balance.
  • If applying for a work visa, ensure your Brazilian host has started the process with the Ministry of Labour in Brazil first.

Frequently asked questions

Related visa guides

Brazil Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing TimeBrazil Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing TimeBrazil Embassy & Consulate Guide
Browse all visa guides

Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

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