Last verified: April 2026
Brazil is one of the few destinations where the rules genuinely flipped in recent years. Americans had visa-free access for several years, then in 2023 Brazil announced the requirement would return on a reciprocal basis. Since 2024, US citizens visiting Brazil for tourism or short business have needed an eVisa, applied through Brazil’s official electronic visa portal. This guide covers the current fee, documents, processing time, and how to avoid the copycat sites that have sprung up.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Brazil?
Yes, as of the reinstatement of the reciprocal visa arrangement. US citizens now need a visa (VITEM II for tourism or a similar short-stay eVisa) to enter Brazil for visits of any duration. Children on US passports also need their own eVisa.
Brazil eVisa at a Glance
- Fee: Approximately $80.90 USD for US citizens. Fees include a small service charge; the base government fee is around $80.
- Validity: 10 years, multiple entries.
- Stay per visit: Up to 90 days per entry, with a maximum of 180 days within any 365-day period.
- Entries: Multiple.
- Processing time: Up to 5 business days for most applications.
- Where to apply: The official Brazilian e-visa portal operated by VFS Global on behalf of the Brazilian government. Check the Consulate-General of Brazil’s website for the current URL, as the official partner has changed in the past.
How to Apply for the Brazil eVisa
- Confirm the official portal URL on the Brazilian consulate’s website before you start. Brazil has changed its e-visa processing partner in recent years.
- Create an account on the official portal.
- Complete the application form. Personal details, passport information, travel plans, contact information.
- Upload the required documents: passport bio page scan, passport-style photo meeting Brazilian specifications, proof of onward travel, proof of sufficient funds, and proof of accommodation.
- Pay the fee online by card.
- Wait for processing, typically 5 business days.
- Download the eVisa when approved. Print it and carry it with your passport.
Required Documents
- US passport valid for at least 6 months beyond planned exit from Brazil with two blank pages.
- A clear color scan of the passport bio page.
- A recent passport-style color photo.
- Proof of onward or return travel.
- Proof of sufficient funds such as a recent bank statement showing at least $2,000 USD or equivalent.
- Proof of accommodation. Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a Brazilian host.
- A credit or debit card for the fee.
Processing Time
The Brazilian government cites up to 5 business days as standard. In practice, many applications are processed faster, but the system can slow during Brazilian holidays and peak travel periods (Brazilian summer / US winter). Apply at least 2 weeks before travel.
Common Mistakes
- Using an unofficial site. Several third-party sites market themselves as “official” Brazil eVisa agents while charging far more than the government fee. Always start at the Brazilian consulate or embassy website.
- Missing proof of funds. A vague “I have money” statement is not accepted. Upload an actual statement.
- Wrong photo. Brazilian photo standards are specific and slightly different from US standards. Follow the checklist carefully.
- Applying too close to travel. 5 business days means 5 full Brazilian business days. Weekends and holidays do not count.
- Not printing the eVisa. Print it. Brazilian immigration at GRU, GIG, and other airports expects a printed copy.
When You Need a Different Visa
The eVisa covers tourism and short business visits. Other visa categories are needed for: paid work (VITEM V), study of over 90 days (VITEM IV), Brazilian family reunion, journalism assignments, and long-stay residency. Work and long-stay visas are applied for at the Brazilian Consulate-General with jurisdiction over your US state, not through the eVisa portal.
Tips for US Travelers
- Register with STEP. The US Embassy is in Brasília and Consulates are in Rio, São Paulo, Recife, and Porto Alegre.
- Brazil does not accept US driver’s licenses for rental cars. If you plan to drive, get an International Driving Permit from AAA before leaving the US.
- Yellow fever vaccination is not universally required but strongly recommended for travel outside major cities. Keep your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) with your passport.
- Carry the Brazilian reais equivalent of about $200 in small bills for taxis, tips, and smaller merchants. Cards are widely accepted in cities but not everywhere.
- Print the eVisa twice. Keep one in a separate bag.
FAQ
Can I still enter Brazil visa-free as an American?
No. The visa requirement was reinstated. An eVisa is required for tourism and short business trips.
How long is the eVisa valid?
10 years with multiple entries, up to 90 days per visit and up to 180 days within any 365-day period.
Do children need their own eVisa?
Yes, every US passport holder regardless of age needs their own eVisa.
Can my eVisa be extended inside Brazil?
Federal Police can sometimes extend a tourist stay by up to 90 additional days, up to the 180-day cap per 365-day period. Apply at a Federal Police office in Brazil before your current stay expires.
Bottom line
Brazil’s eVisa is a moderate-effort, moderate-cost visa. An $80 fee, a week of processing, and a handful of documents are the whole deal. Apply on the official portal only, meet the photo and funds requirements carefully, and you are clear for a full decade of Brazilian travel on one approval.