Unfortunately, in recent years, life has been getting increasingly complicated for travelers. More and more countries are tightening border controls and requiring additional documentation to enter.
One of the latest countries to introduce specific requirements for visitors is Brazil, which, starting in April 2025, has implemented two key rules that American travelers must follow.
New Brazil Visa Requirements
First, Effective April 10, 2025, American tourists headed to Brazil will once again need a visa.
As some of you may remember, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, scrapped the visa requirements in 2019 as he sought to boost the country’s tourism industry.
However, the new President Lula suspended the free entry of Americans, Canadians, and Australians in March of 2023, shortly after the election.
After many delays (and six years of visa-free entry), the Brazilian government has reintroduced a mandatory “Visitor Visa” for all U.S. passport holders, which is valid for stays of up to 90 days in the country.
You must apply online at brazil.vfsevisa.com and pay a fee of approximately $80.90 for a 10‑year, multiple‑entry e‑Visa. Processing typically takes 5–10 business days, so try to submit your paperwork well in advance of booking flights.
The Second Rule
Another important requirement (and unfortunately many do not know this) involves proving financial means.
In fact, when applying for the electronic visa, you’ll need to upload a bank statement showing your name, transactions from the last 30 days, and a balance of at least $2,000.
Why is that, you might be wondering? Since travelers can stay in Brazil for up to 90 days, this is simply a way to ensure they have the means to cover their stay in the country, including any unexpected expenses.
Other Things to Know For Trips in Brazil
On arrival in Brazil, you’ll just need a passport that’s valid on the date of entry and one blank page for stamping.
There are no new health requirements beyond the standard yellow fever vaccination if arriving from an endemic region. However, remember that anyone carrying more than BRL 10,000 (or equivalent in other currencies) must declare it upon entry or departure.
The last thing I wanna mention is that Brazilian citizens traveling north to the United States face no changes in visa policy.
Brazil is not part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, so all Brazilian nationals still require a B‑1/B‑2 tourist visa obtained from a U.S. consulate in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, or Brasília.
However, looks like CBP has ramped up its screening of international arrivals. All travelers, regardless of nationality, may be asked to provide details about their trip itinerary, hotel bookings, or business appointments. And in some rare cases, also to unlock electronic devices for inspection.
In addition, remember that some items are now banned from checked luggage and from carry-on bags.
