Starting Thursday, April 10, Brazil will reinstate visa requirements for U.S., Australian and Canadian citizens, ending the visa-free access that travelers from these countries have had since 2019.
The policy change brings these three nations in line with countries such as India, Saudi Arabia, Cuba, Egypt, Kenya, Pakistan and Oman, whose citizens have long needed a visa to enter Brazil.
What’s Changing?
Beginning April 10, U.S., Australian and Canadian citizens will be required to obtain a visa before traveling to Brazil by air, land or sea for tourism purposes. Previously, travelers from these three countries could enter Brazil without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Now, these travelers must apply for a visa, primarily an electronic visa (eVisa). Travelers with a valid existing visa do not need to reapply.
Additionally, U.S., Australian and Canadian passport holders visiting Brazil for business, study or other purposes may have different requirements, though all should ensure compliance with the new regulations.
Why Is Brazil Making This Change?
Brazilian officials have cited several reasons for reinstating visa requirements. Among them is the desire to better control the flow of international arrivals and ensure national security through more thorough traveler screening processes.
The decision also reflects a shift in Brazil’s tourism strategy, moving toward a more structured approach to managing the growth of inbound tourism. By implementing visa controls, Brazil aims to reduce overstays, track visitor patterns more effectively and maintain a safe and sustainable tourism environment.
This policy shift had initially been planned for 2023 but was delayed to allow time for infrastructure and processes to be put in place.
What Travelers Need to Know
If you're planning a trip to Brazil from the U.S., Australia or Canada, here are the key takeaways:
- How to Apply: Visit the official Brazil eVisa site to start your application process, here. Processing times may vary, so travelers are encouraged to apply well in advance, ideally two months ahead of their travel.
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date from Brazil. This requirement applies to all travelers, regardless of nationality.
- Length of Stay: The visa will allow a stay of up to 90 days, you will need to apply for an extension with the Federal Police of Brazil before your authorized stay expires. This will allow you to remain in Brazil legally for an extended period.
A Global Shift Toward Stricter Entry Policies
Brazil’s decision comes amid a broader global trend of tightening entry requirements. As international travel rebounds and security concerns remain top of mind, many countries are reevaluating their visa policies. The U.S., Canada and European countries also maintain visa requirements for a number of travelers from Latin America and beyond.
For global travelers, that means pre-travel research and documentation are becoming increasingly essential. Visa-free access is no longer a guarantee, even between historically friendly nations.
Impact on Tourism
Although the reintroduction of visa requirements may present an added step for U.S., Australian and Canadian travelers, Brazilian officials view the change as a strategic investment in the country’s long-term tourism development.
By requiring visas, Brazil gains greater oversight of inbound travel, helping to ensure that its tourism infrastructure can grow sustainably alongside increasing visitor demand.
Beyond infrastructure, the policy also serves a security function, enabling authorities to better assess and manage potential risks tied to international travel. With more structured entry protocols, Brazil aims to prevent overstays and enhance border control measures, while still delivering the warm hospitality and vibrant experiences the country is known for.
In the broader context, this shift may ultimately strengthen Brazil’s position as a global travel destination, offering a more secure, thoughtfully managed travel experience that appeals to today’s more conscientious travelers.
