Brazil Embassy & Consulate Guide
Key highlights
- Formal appointment-based system via E-consular portal
- Strict requirement for digital upload of all documents before visit
- Varying fees based on reciprocity for different nationalities
- Mandatory 'RER' receipt with scannable barcode required
- Decentralised processing across multiple regional consulates
- Specific rules for minors requiring both parents' notarised consent
- Options for business, tourism, and student resident permits
Processing time
5-15 working days
Processing times vary by consulate jurisdiction. Some missions offer 'emergency' processing for an additional fee in documented urgent cases.
Estimated cost
$80.00 - $290.00
- Standard Consular Fee$80.00 - $160.00 (varies by nationality)
- Service or Processing Fee (if using third-party)~$20.00
Requirements
- Passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry
- Completion of the online 'Visa Request Form' (VIVIS)
- Uploading a digital signature and photo to the online portal
- Evidence of sufficient funds (typically last 3 months of bank statements)
- Confirmed flight itinerary showing entry into and exit from Brazil
- No criminal record (required for certain visa types or longer stays)
- Notarised travel authorisation for applicants under 18 years old
- Legal status in the country where the application is being lodged
- Payment of the consular fee via the approved method (often USPS Money Order in the US)
- Specific invitation letter if visiting family or attending business meetings
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Online Visa Request Form Receipt (RER)
- One passport-sized photograph (white background)
- Round-trip flight itinerary or proof of travel dates
- Proof of financial means (recent bank statements)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Consular fee payment receipt
- Proof of legal residence (for applicants outside their home country)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Complete the Online Visa Form (RER)
Access the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to fill out the visa application form. You must upload your photo, signature, and key documents digitally.
- 2
Print Your Barcoded Receipt
Print the 'Visa Request Form Receipt' (RER) which contains your unique barcode. You will need to bring this to your appointment.
- 3
Submit Documents via E-consular
Create an account on the 'E-consular' portal specific to your jurisdiction to upload your documents for pre-approval by consular staff.
- 4
Schedule Your Appointment
Once your documents are validated online, the consulate will invite you to schedule an in-person appointment or provide instructions for mail-in submission.
- 5
Pay the Consular Fee
Obtain the correct payment method (many consulates do not accept cash or credit cards; money orders are common).
- 6
Submit Physical Application
Attend your appointment or mail your physical passport and original documents to the consulate for final processing.
- 7
Collect Your Visa
Track your application status online using the code provided on your RER. Once 'Ready for Collection', retrieve your passport.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your digital uploads are clear; blurry scans are the leading cause of application pre-approval rejection.
- Check your consulate's specific jurisdiction—applying to the wrong consulate will result in your application being returned.
- For business visas, ensure the invitation letter is on company letterhead and explicitly states the nature of the work.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is granted, as processing times are never guaranteed.
- Minors must have a specific 'Consent for Visa Issuance' form signed by both parents and notarised.
- Verify if your consulate requires a USPS Money Order or a specific bank transfer before arriving.
Frequently asked questions
Related 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.