Welcome, American Travelers!
As a United States citizen, your journey to Brazil begins with understanding the electronic visa (eVisa) requirements that took effect on April 10th, 2025. Brazil welcomes millions of American visitors annually, drawn by the country's spectacular natural wonders, vibrant culture, and world-famous hospitality. This comprehensive guide is specifically designed to help US passport holders navigate the eVisa application process with ease and confidence.
The eVisa system represents Brazil's commitment to modernizing its immigration process while maintaining security standards. For Americans, this digital transformation means faster processing, greater convenience, and the ability to complete your entire visa application from the comfort of your home in the United States. Whether you're planning to explore the Amazon rainforest, enjoy Rio's beaches, or conduct business in São Paulo, your eVisa is the gateway to your Brazilian adventure.
Why Americans Choose Brazil as Their Destination
Natural Wonders
From the world's largest rainforest to pristine beaches stretching thousands of miles, Brazil offers American travelers unparalleled natural diversity. Experience ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth.
Cultural Richness
Immerse yourself in samba, bossa nova, and Carnival celebrations. Brazil's cultural tapestry blends indigenous, African, and European influences creating a unique experience that captivates American visitors.
Business Opportunities
As Latin America's largest economy, Brazil presents significant opportunities for American businesses. The eVisa facilitates business travel for conferences, negotiations, and partnership development.
Direct Flights from Major US Cities
American travelers benefit from excellent connectivity to Brazil with daily direct flights from New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Houston, Orlando, and Atlanta to major Brazilian cities including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Brasília. Flight times range from 8 to 11 hours depending on your departure city, making Brazil easily accessible for both short visits and extended stays.
The convenient flight schedules allow Americans to maximize their time in Brazil, with overnight flights enabling you to arrive refreshed and ready to explore. Major US carriers including American Airlines, United, and Delta operate these routes alongside Brazilian airlines TAM and GOL, providing Americans with familiar service standards and frequent flyer benefits.
Understanding Brazil's eVisa System for US Citizens
What is the Brazil eVisa?
The Brazil eVisa is an official electronic travel authorization issued by the Brazilian government specifically for citizens of the United States, Australia, and Canada. Introduced in April 2025, this digital visa system replaced the previous requirement for Americans to visit Brazilian consulates in person. The eVisa is legally equivalent to traditional visa stamps but exists entirely in electronic format, linked directly to your US passport number in Brazilian immigration databases.
For American travelers, the eVisa represents a significant improvement in convenience. You can apply online from anywhere in the United States, receive approval via email, and present your eVisa digitally upon arrival in Brazil. There's no need to mail your passport to a consulate or schedule in-person appointments. This streamlined process recognizes the strong diplomatic relationship between the United States and Brazil while maintaining necessary security protocols.
Key Benefits for Americans:
- 100% online application process - no consulate visits required
- Processing times as fast as 24-72 hours for US citizens
- Valid for multiple entries over 10 years
- Each stay can last up to 90 days (extendable to 180 days per year)
- Accepted at all Brazilian entry points: airports, seaports, and land borders
- Digital format - no physical stamp required in your passport
Visa Categories Available to Americans
US citizens can apply for three distinct eVisa categories depending on the purpose of their Brazilian visit. Understanding which category fits your travel plans ensures a smooth application process and appropriate authorization for your activities in Brazil.
Tourism eVisa (VITUR)
The most popular choice for American vacation travelers. This visa category covers leisure activities, sightseeing, visiting friends and family, attending cultural events, and participating in non-commercial activities. Americans planning beach vacations, Carnival celebrations, eco-tourism adventures, or city tours should select this category. You can explore Brazil's major events and cultural attractions with this visa type.
Ideal for: Vacations, festivals, visiting relatives, tourism, recreational activities
Business eVisa (VITEM-II)
Designed for American professionals traveling to Brazil for business purposes. This category covers attending conferences, business meetings, trade shows, contract negotiations, market research, and exploring investment opportunities. American entrepreneurs and corporate employees conducting short-term business activities should select this category. Note that this visa does not authorize formal employment or paid work in Brazil.
Ideal for: Business meetings, conferences, trade exhibitions, partnerships, market analysis
Transit eVisa (VITRAN)
For Americans passing through Brazil en route to another country. If your connecting flight requires you to clear Brazilian immigration or if you have an extended layover in Brazil, you need a transit visa. This is particularly relevant for Americans traveling to other South American destinations via Brazilian airports like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro.
Ideal for: Airport connections, stopovers, passing through Brazil to reach other countries
Validity and Duration for US Passport Holders
Understanding the validity period and permitted stay duration is crucial for American travelers planning their Brazilian visit. The eVisa system offers generous terms that accommodate both short-term visitors and those planning extended stays or multiple trips to Brazil.
Visa Validity Period
Your Brazil eVisa remains valid for 10 years from the date of issuance or until your US passport expires, whichever comes first. This long validity period means Americans can make multiple trips to Brazil without reapplying each time. If you renew your US passport during this period, you'll need to apply for a new eVisa linked to your new passport number.
Important: The 10-year validity doesn't mean you can stay in Brazil for 10 years. It means you can enter Brazil multiple times during this period, with each entry subject to stay limitations.
Stay Duration Limits
Each time you enter Brazil, Americans are permitted to stay for up to 90 consecutive days. Brazilian immigration authorities may grant extensions up to a maximum of 180 days within any 12-month period. This means you could potentially spend half the year in Brazil, making it ideal for snowbirds, digital nomads, or those with extended family connections.
Example: You visit Brazil in January for 90 days, leave in April, and can return later in the year for another 90 days, totaling 180 days in that calendar year.
Extension Options for Americans
If you need to extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days, American citizens can apply for an extension through the Brazilian Federal Police (Polícia Federal) before your authorized stay expires. Extensions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and typically require documentation proving the need for extended stay, such as medical treatment, family emergency, or compelling circumstances. Plan ahead and initiate extension requests at least 30 days before your current authorization expires to avoid overstay penalties.
Document Checklist for US Passport Holders
Proper documentation is the foundation of a successful eVisa application. American applicants must ensure all documents meet Brazilian government specifications before submitting their application. Missing or incorrect documentation is the primary reason for application delays or rejections. Review this comprehensive checklist carefully and gather all required materials before starting your online application.
1. Valid US Passport
Your United States passport is the cornerstone of your eVisa application. Brazilian authorities have strict requirements regarding passport validity, and failure to meet these standards will result in automatic application rejection. Americans must ensure their passport meets all the following criteria before beginning the application process.
US Passport Requirements:
- •Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date into Brazil. For example, if you're traveling to Brazil on July 1st, 2026, your passport must remain valid until at least January 1st, 2027.
- •Blank Pages: Your passport must contain at least one completely blank page for Brazilian immigration stamps. Pages with any markings, even light stamps or stickers, don't count as blank.
- •Physical Condition: The passport must be in good physical condition without tears, water damage, or significant wear that could make information difficult to read. The photo page must be especially clear and intact.
- •Type: Both standard blue tourist passports and official red/black diplomatic/official passports are acceptable. However, diplomatic passport holders may have different visa requirements.
- •Machine-Readable: All modern US passports issued after 2006 include a machine-readable zone (MRZ) at the bottom of the information page. This is required for eVisa processing.
Pro Tip for Americans:
If your passport is expiring within 12 months of your planned Brazil trip, consider renewing it before applying for your eVisa. US passport renewal takes approximately 10-12 weeks through routine service or 5-7 weeks for expedited service. Having a newly renewed passport ensures you won't need to reapply for your Brazil eVisa when your passport expires during the 10-year eVisa validity period.
2. Recent Passport-Style Photograph
Your passport photograph must meet exact Brazilian government specifications. Many American applications are rejected due to improper photos, even when all other documentation is correct. The photo will appear on your eVisa document and will be used by Brazilian immigration officers to verify your identity upon arrival.
Technical Specifications:
- • Dimensions: 5cm x 7cm (2" x 2¾")
- • File format: JPEG only
- • File size: Maximum 300KB
- • Resolution: Minimum 600 DPI
- • Color: Must be in color (no black and white)
- • Background: Plain white or light-colored background
- • Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
Appearance Requirements:
- • Face must be clearly visible with neutral expression
- • Eyes open and looking directly at camera
- • No eyeglasses (even if you normally wear them)
- • No head coverings unless for religious purposes
- • No shadows on face or background
- • Head must be centered and facing camera directly
- • Must show head from top of hair to bottom of chin
Common Photo Mistakes Americans Make:
- ❌ Using selfies or casual photos
- ❌ Wearing eyeglasses (even prescription glasses)
- ❌ Smiling or showing teeth
- ❌ Having shadows, reflections, or filters
- ❌ Using photos older than 6 months
- ❌ File size too large or wrong format
Recommendation: Americans can use professional photo services at CVS, Walgreens, or USPS that offer passport photo services. Request digital copies specifically formatted for online use. Alternatively, specialized apps like Passport Photo Online can help you format your photo correctly from home.
3. Additional Documents (Situation-Specific)
Depending on your specific situation, American applicants may need to provide additional documentation beyond the standard requirements. Review these categories to determine if any apply to your circumstances.
Minors (Under 18):
American children and teenagers traveling to Brazil require additional documentation:
- • Birth certificate showing both parents' names
- • If traveling with one parent: Notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent
- • If traveling alone or with guardians: Notarized authorization from both parents
- • Court documents if relevant (custody orders, etc.)
- • Minor's own eVisa application (children cannot be added to parent's visa)
Business Travelers:
Americans traveling for business should include:
- • Invitation letter from Brazilian company or organization
- • Letter from your US employer describing the business purpose
- • Conference registration or trade show documentation
- • Business registration documents if you're self-employed
Visiting Family/Friends:
Americans visiting Brazilian residents should provide:
- • Invitation letter from your Brazilian host
- • Copy of host's Brazilian ID (RG) or CPF
- • Proof of relationship (if applicable)
- • Host's address and contact information
Document Preparation Checklist for Americans:
Before Starting Your Application:
- ☐ Check passport expiration date (6+ months validity)
- ☐ Take or obtain compliant passport photo
- ☐ Prepare business or invitation letters if applicable
During Application:
- ☐ Scan all documents in high quality (300 DPI minimum)
- ☐ Ensure file sizes meet requirements
- ☐ Double-check all information for accuracy
- ☐ Have your credit/debit card ready for payment
- ☐ Use accurate email address for notifications
Step-by-Step Application Walkthrough for Americans
The Brazil eVisa application process is straightforward and designed to be completed by American applicants in approximately 20-30 minutes. Follow this detailed walkthrough to ensure your application is completed correctly the first time, avoiding delays or rejections. Most US citizens receive approval within 24-72 hours when all documentation is properly submitted.
Access the Official Application Portal
Begin your application by navigating to our secure eVisa application portal. American applicants should ensure they're using the official government-authorized platform to avoid fraudulent websites. Our portal uses 256-bit SSL encryption to protect your personal information and payment details throughout the application process.
Important Security Tips for Americans:
- • Verify the website URL before entering any information
- • Look for the padlock icon in your browser's address bar
- • Never share your application details or confirmation number publicly
- • Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks when submitting sensitive information
- • Beware of emails claiming to be from Brazilian immigration asking for payment
Complete Your Personal Information
The application form requests comprehensive personal information exactly as it appears in your US passport. Accuracy is critical - even minor spelling differences can cause processing delays. Take your time with this section and have your passport open beside you to ensure perfect accuracy.
Basic Information Required:
- • Full legal name (as shown in passport)
- • Date of birth
- • Place of birth (city and state)
- • US passport number
- • Passport issue and expiration dates
- • Current US address
- • Phone number (with country code +1)
- • Email address
Additional Details:
- • Parent's full names
- • Marital status
- • Occupation and employer information
- • Previous countries visited
- • Previous Brazilian visa history (if any)
- • Emergency contact in US
- • Social media handles (optional but recommended)
Common Mistakes Americans Make: Using nicknames instead of legal names, transposing numbers in passport details, using expired passport information, or providing P.O. Box addresses. Double-check every field before proceeding.
Upload Required Documentation
This critical step requires uploading digital copies of all required documents. American applicants must ensure their uploads meet technical specifications and are clearly legible. The automated system will reject files that don't meet requirements, so prepare your documents carefully before this step.
Upload Requirements:
Passport Biographical Page:
Scan or photograph your passport's information page showing your photo and details. Ensure all four corners are visible, lighting is even, and text is sharp and readable. File format: PDF or JPEG, maximum 5MB.
Passport Photo:
Upload your compliant 5cm x 7cm photo meeting all specifications detailed earlier. JPEG format only, maximum 300KB. The system will automatically verify dimensions and file size.
Pro Tip: Use your smartphone to scan documents using apps like Adobe Scan or Microsoft Lens. These apps automatically enhance image quality, correct perspective, and convert to appropriate file formats, ensuring better acceptance rates.
Review and Submit Your Application
Before submitting, carefully review every section of your application. Once submitted, you cannot make changes without contacting support and potentially starting over. This review step is your opportunity to catch and correct any errors before Brazilian immigration officials evaluate your application.
Pre-Submission Checklist:
- ☐ Name matches passport exactly
- ☐ Passport number is correct
- ☐ All dates are accurate
- ☐ Email address is correct
- ☐ Phone number includes country code
- ☐ All documents uploaded successfully
- ☐ Photos meet specifications
- ☐ Travel dates are consistent
- ☐ Selected correct visa category
- ☐ Reviewed terms and conditions
Once satisfied with your review, click the Submit button. You'll immediately receive a confirmation email with your application reference number. Save this email - you'll need the reference number to check your application status and retrieve your approved eVisa.
Process Payment
After submitting your application, you'll be directed to the secure payment portal. American applicants can pay using major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) or debit cards. The payment system accepts cards issued by US banks and processes transactions in US dollars, so you won't face foreign transaction fees if your card doesn't charge them.
Payment Information:
- • eVisa fee is charged in US dollars
- • Secure payment processing through encrypted gateway
- • Immediate payment confirmation
- • Receipt emailed automatically
- • No additional service charges or hidden fees
Accepted Payment Methods:
- • Visa credit and debit cards
- • Mastercard credit and debit cards
- • American Express cards
- • Discover cards
- • Cards issued by US and international banks
Important: Your application will not be processed until payment is received and confirmed. Complete the payment step immediately after submitting your application. If you encounter payment issues, contact support within 24 hours to avoid application expiration.
Receive Your eVisa Approval
Once your application is processed and approved, your Brazil eVisa will be delivered directly to your email address. The processing timeframes are:
Regular Processing
3-7 Working Days
Standard processing time for most applications
Express Processing
1-3 Working Days
Fast-track option for urgent travel needs
Your approved eVisa arrives as a PDF document via email. Print multiple copies to carry during your trip to Brazil - you'll need to present it at immigration upon arrival. We also recommend saving a digital copy on your phone or tablet as backup.
Important: Check your email (including spam/junk folders) regularly after submission. Your eVisa is valid for 10 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, allowing multiple entries with stays up to 90 days per visit.
Ready to Begin Your Brazil Journey?
Join thousands of Americans who successfully obtain their Brazil eVisa every month. Start your application now and receive approval within days.
Pricing Breakdown and Processing Options for Americans
Understanding the cost structure and available processing speeds helps American travelers plan their Brazil trip budget and timeline effectively. The Brazil eVisa system offers flexible options to accommodate both advance planners and those with urgent travel needs. All fees are transparently displayed, with no hidden charges or surprise costs.
Visa Fees and Processing Options
Brazil eVisa fees for US citizens are transparent with no hidden charges:
Visitor eVisa
Regular: $145 (3-7 days)
Express: $205 (1-3 days)
Business eVisa
Regular: $155 (3-7 days)
Express: $220 (1-3 days)
Transit eVisa
Regular: $140 (3-7 days)
Express: $195 (1-3 days)
All fees include professional application processing, document verification, 24/7 customer support, and digital eVisa delivery. Payment is made securely online using Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.
What's Included in Your Fee
The Brazil eVisa fee covers comprehensive services and government processing. Unlike some countries that charge separately for each component, Brazil's transparent pricing includes everything Americans need for a successful application. Here's the complete breakdown of what your payment covers:
Government Processing:
- • Brazilian immigration review
- • Security background checks
- • Document verification
- • Database entry and management
- • eVisa document generation
Application Services:
- • Secure online application portal
- • Document upload system
- • Application status tracking
- • Automated email notifications
- • Digital eVisa delivery
Support Services:
- • Customer support assistance
- • Application guidance
- • Document specification help
- • Issue resolution
- • eVisa re-download service
Fee Payment Information for Americans
Accepted Payment Methods:
- • All major US credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, Discover)
- • US debit cards with Visa/Mastercard logo
- • International credit cards accepted
- • Secure payment processing with fraud protection
- • Immediate payment confirmation
Important Notes:
- • Fees charged in US dollars - no currency conversion needed
- • No hidden charges or surprise fees
- • Payment required before processing begins
- • Receipt emailed immediately upon payment
- • Refund policy applies if visa is denied (government processing)
Processing Time Recommendations for Americans
Planning Your Trip More Than 3 Weeks Out?
Choose Standard Processing. You'll receive your eVisa with plenty of time to spare while saving $40 per person. For a family of four, that's $160 in savings that can be used for experiences in Brazil.
Traveling Within the Next 1-2 Weeks?
Choose Express Processing. The expedited review ensures you receive your eVisa quickly, giving you peace of mind before your departure. The additional cost is worthwhile for the faster turnaround and priority handling.
Last-Minute Emergency Travel?
Choose Express Processing and contact support immediately after submitting. While we cannot guarantee same-day processing, express applications receive the highest priority, and many Americans receive approval within 24 hours.
Legal Responsibilities and Prohibited Activities in Brazil
⚠️Critical Warning for American Travelers
While Brazil welcomes American tourists with open arms, it's absolutely essential that all US visitors understand and respect Brazilian law. As a visitor, you are subject to Brazilian jurisdiction and legal system, not American law. Ignorance of local laws is not a defense, and the US Embassy has limited ability to intervene in criminal matters. This section outlines serious prohibited activities that can result in arrest, imprisonment, and permanent criminal records.
🚫Sex Tourism and Exploitation: Zero Tolerance
Brazil enforces some of the world's strictest laws against sex tourism, prostitution exploitation, and any sexual activity involving minors. These laws apply equally to Brazilian nationals and foreign visitors, including Americans.
What Constitutes Sex Tourism?
Brazilian law defines sex tourism as traveling to Brazil with the primary or partial purpose of engaging in sexual activities, particularly with sex workers or in commercial sex establishments. Even if prostitution itself occupies a legal gray area in Brazil, exploiting sex workers or facilitating sex tourism is explicitly criminalized with severe penalties.
Illegal Activities Include:
- • Traveling to Brazil specifically to engage with sex workers
- • Organizing or participating in sex tourism activities
- • Visiting brothels or commercial sex establishments
- • Facilitating or promoting sexual services
- • Using dating apps or websites primarily for commercial sexual encounters
- • ANY sexual contact with anyone under 18 years of age
Penalties for Americans:
For Sex Tourism Offenses:
- • Prison sentences: 2-8 years
- • Heavy fines (substantial amounts in US dollar equivalent)
- • Immediate arrest upon detection
- • Permanent criminal record in Brazil
- • Deportation and lifetime ban from re-entering Brazil
- • Criminal record may affect travel to other countries
For Crimes Against Minors (Under 18):
- • Prison sentences: 4-12 years minimum
- • Sentences can extend to 30+ years for aggravated cases
- • Prosecution under both Brazilian and US federal law
- • Sex offender registration in the United States
- • Federal charges upon return to US (PROTECT Act)
- • Asset seizure and financial penalties
The PROTECT Act - US Federal Law:
American citizens should be aware that the United States PROTECT Act (Prosecutorial Remedies and Other Tools to end the Exploitation of Children Today) allows federal prosecution of US citizens who engage in sexual conduct with minors while traveling abroad, even if the conduct occurred entirely outside US borders. If you commit such crimes in Brazil, you can face prosecution both in Brazil AND upon return to the United States, resulting in compounding penalties including lifetime sex offender registration.
The US Embassy CANNOT and WILL NOT protect you from prosecution if you violate these laws. Your eVisa will be revoked, and you will face the full force of Brazilian criminal justice.
💊Drug Offenses: Severe Consequences
Brazil enforces strict anti-drug laws with harsh penalties for possession, use, trafficking, and transportation of illegal narcotics. Many American travelers underestimate the seriousness of drug laws in Brazil, leading to devastating legal consequences.
Drug-Related Activities That Will Get You Arrested:
- • Possessing any amount of illegal drugs (including marijuana)
- • Using illegal drugs, even in private settings
- • Attempting to purchase drugs from dealers
- • Carrying drugs across state or international borders
- • Transporting drugs for others
- • Accepting packages or luggage from strangers
- • Bringing prescription medications without documentation
- • Being present in locations where drugs are being used
- • Sharing or distributing drugs to others
- • Importing drug paraphernalia
Penalties:
Drug possession: 5-15 years imprisonment. Drug trafficking: 5-20 years imprisonment with no possibility of parole for foreigners. International drug trafficking (crossing borders): 8-25 years in maximum-security Brazilian prisons. Americans convicted of drug offenses serve their entire sentences in Brazil before any possibility of transfer to US custody.
Note: Brazilian prisons are notoriously harsh, overcrowded, and dangerous. The US Embassy provides limited assistance to incarcerated Americans and cannot secure early release or transfer.
🚨Other Serious Offenses Americans Must Avoid
Violence and Assault:
Physical altercations, fights, domestic violence, and assault carry serious penalties. Even self-defense claims are evaluated strictly. Assaulting law enforcement officers or public officials results in aggravated charges with mandatory imprisonment.
Theft and Fraud:
Credit card fraud, identity theft, shoplifting, and pickpocketing are prosecuted vigorously. Using counterfeit money or fraudulent documents (including fake IDs or forged visas) results in immediate arrest and prosecution.
Environmental Crimes:
Illegal wildlife trafficking, removing protected plants or animals, damaging environmental preservation areas, and participating in illegal logging or mining operations. Brazil takes environmental protection seriously, with penalties including heavy fines and imprisonment.
Traffic and Driving Violations:
Driving under the influence (DUI/DWI) has zero-tolerance enforcement. Causing accidents while intoxicated results in criminal charges. Driving without proper license or insurance, reckless driving, and fleeing accident scenes are serious offenses.
Working Without Authorization:
Your eVisa does NOT authorize employment in Brazil. Working for Brazilian companies, freelancing for pay, or conducting business that generates Brazilian income without proper work authorization violates immigration law and results in immediate visa revocation, deportation, and future entry bans.
If You're Arrested or Face Legal Issues
If you are arrested or detained in Brazil, you have the right to contact the US Embassy or nearest US Consulate. Brazilian law requires authorities to notify the embassy of any American citizen's arrest, but you should also request this notification yourself.
US Embassy Assistance:
- • Provide list of local attorneys
- • Visit you in detention to check on welfare
- • Contact family members in the US on your behalf
- • Monitor your case for due process violations
- • Provide information about Brazilian legal system
What the Embassy CANNOT Do: Pay legal fees, secure your release, provide legal representation, get you out of jail, override Brazilian law, or prevent prosecution.
US Embassy and Consulate Contact:
US Embassy Brasília: +55 (61) 3312-7000
US Consulate Rio de Janeiro: +55 (21) 3823-2000
US Consulate São Paulo: +55 (11) 5186-7000
Emergency After-Hours: +55 (61) 3312-7400
Travel Responsibly and Enjoy Brazil Safely
The vast majority of Americans visit Brazil without any legal problems and have wonderful, enriching experiences. By respecting Brazilian law, understanding cultural differences, and making smart decisions, you'll create lasting positive memories. When in doubt about whether something is legal or appropriate, err on the side of caution. Learn about Brazilian culture and safety guidelines to ensure a memorable trip for all the right reasons.
Ready to Start Your Brazilian Adventure?
Join millions of Americans who have discovered Brazil's magic. Apply for your eVisa today and begin planning the trip of a lifetime.
Apply for Your Brazil eVisa Now