Making plans for a vacation to Brazil is all part of the fun, but for visitors from certain countries there is one important detail that should be taken very seriously: applying for an entry visa at the right time.
Fortunately for most, many countries are exempt from any visa requirements for visits of up to 90 days. This includes citizens of the United Kingdom, European Union nations, some other European countries, some Asian and African countries, and most of South America.
For visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan however, it is important to apply for the correct visa before setting off on your Brazil vacation.
Travelers must apply for their visas at the Brazilian consulate in their own country and as with all visa applications, timing is crucial. This is especially the case with recent changes to the application process in the United States.
Walk-in applications are no longer accepted, neither are mailed applications. Instead, US visitors are required to send an e-application form and then make an appointment for a face-to-face meeting to collect their visa and passport.
Also, to avoid a backlog, Brazilian consulate officials have asked applicants to submit their forms with plenty of time as processing time is between seven and ten days. But don’t submit your application too far in advance, as your visa is only valid for 90 days from the date of issue.
The online application form is available at: https://scedv.serpro.gov.br/frscedv/index.jsp. After completing this form you will be given a reference number (officially known as your Individual Protocol Number). Once you have your reference, you must arrange an appointment with the consulate using the online booking system at your consulate’s website.
When attending your appointment, take the following items: your passport (which must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry), a recent passport style photograph, a copy of your vacation or flight booking slip including arrival and departure dates, and the processing fee.
And once you’ve got your visa application out of the way, you can get back to planning your Brazil vacation! For some inspiration, check out the free Brazil Travel Guide.
Plan your own exciting tour to Brazil. Contact us to chat with an expert travel advisor at Latin America For Less now!
Latin America for Less is a group of travel experts who live, work, eat, and breathe all things South America. Their inspiration stems from a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity that make this continent so special.
