A Guide to Getting a Brazil Tourist Visa
If you’re planning a trip to Brazil, you will need to obtain a tourist visa. Although many countries only require a passport, Brazil is one of the places that requires a visa, even for short visits. Here’s how you can get everything you need to head out on your trip:
Find your consulate
The first step for obtaining a Brazil travel visa is to find the appropriate Brazilian consulate. There are 10 total consulates in the U.S., and each has its own jurisdiction. Because the size of the jurisdiction varies by consulate, you can’t rely on assuming the nearest one will work. Once you determine which consulate will be able to process your application, you can move to the next step.
Gather documents
You will need the following documents to apply for a tourist visa to Brazil:
- A valid passport book, with at least one blank page for the Brazilian visa stamp.
- One Brazilian visa application form, filled out and signed.
- A 2 x 2 inch passport-style photo (clear picture of your face against a white background).
- A copy of your driver’s license (additional verification is required in some states).
- Proof of itinerary in the form of airline or cruise tickets, or itinerary from a travel agency.
- Other requirements by state (proof of vaccination, confirmation of fund availability).
When all of these documents have been gathered and filled out, you can apply for your visa.
Applying
You can apply for your visa in person, through a third party, or by mail.
- In person: Yourself or a direct family member can apply for your visa in person at the appropriate consulate. This is a great option for people who live close to their consulate and want to have someone on-hand to double check that they have everything.
- Through a third party: If you’re planning your trip through a travel agent, the agency may be able to apply for your visa on your behalf. This gives you a chance to have guidance on your documentation without necessarily needing to be physically close to your consulate.
- By mail: Those who apply for a visa through the mail have to take extra care to make sure they’re sending it the right way. Brazilian consulates only accept applications sent in express envelopes delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. Applications sent in the wrong envelope or delivered by a different service will be denied. Applications must also include a prepaid, self-addressed return envelope.
When you apply, you’ll need to pay a processing fee of $160. This processing fee is a service charge, not a guarantee that your visa will be approved. If your visa is denied, this fee will not be refunded.
