As with anywhere else, certain conditions need to be met and rules respected if you are to enter the country. Brazil is strict about preserving its natural and cultural heritage, meaning restrictions are in place.
Before you leave
Most European nationals do not need a visa to spend a vacation in Brazil, if it's for less than three months. Note - there are exceptions, so check it out first! Exempt nationals need to have a current passport, with an expiry date that is at least six months after their trip. Canadians need to apply for a tourist visa in advance. It's a good idea to scan and copy all of your important documents. Keep copies in your email inbox, incase you need to access them and print off copies of docments that you'll need to carry with you - that way the originals can be stored in a safe place in situ (hotel safe etc.).
Make sure you have adequate travel insurance that includes health cover. Medical services in Brazil are expensive and the last thing you need is a huge bill for treatment.
Arriving in Brazil
As with many countries, it's strictly forbidden to bring fresh fruits and vegetables into Brazil. The same goes for plants and plant products and dairy produce. Your baggage won't necessarily be searched and, for example, cheese that is vacuum packed may go unnoticed - but at your own risk...
In order to preserve the ecosystem, animals are forbidden entry, notably birds.
Finally, the amount of alcohol and tobacco is strictly limited. You can't exceed 400 cigarettes, 250 cigars and 2 liters of alcohol. Bear in mind, if you're traveling with cash, you can't bring in more than 10,000 Reals Anything above these limits needs to be declared at customs.
Leaving Brazil
Once you've got in, at some point you'll need to leave Brazil and, again, there are rules. To protect Brazil's biodiversity, it's illegal to take seeds or any product made from a protected species. Don't even think about wildlife...trying to smuggle out iguanas, parrots, monkeys etc. will land you with a 1,700 Euros/USD fine and a year in jail! Have a great Brazilian vacation!
FAQs
There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. You will need: A valid U.S. passport. A valid Brazilian visa or e-visa, beginning April 10, 2025 for tourists and currently for all other types of travel.
Is Brazil customs strict? ›
Brazil has a strong regulatory regime, strict rules regarding standards, and an active cohort of standards organizations.
What do I have to declare at Brazil customs? ›
Gifts purchased abroad worth more than US$500 must be declared and are subject to duties for the value over US$500. Merchandise for sale or samples should also be declared upon arrival.
Does Brazil have open borders? ›
The country maintains an open-border policy ensuring admission, registration, and documentation for all people in need of international protection. By end of 2023, Brazil hosted over 667,0000 forcibly displaced people under UNHCR's mandate, predominantly from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba, Colombia, Syria, and Afghanistan.
What vaccines are required for Brazil? ›
Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Rabies; Typhoid; Yellow Fever. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Hepatitis B. No yellow fever vaccination certificate required for this country.
Do you need $2000 to enter Brazil? ›
In addition to the application form, valid passport, photo and confirmation of return travel, travelers will be required to provide proof that they have at least $2,000 in available funds at the time of their visa interview at a Brazilian consulate.
What can you not bring into Brazil? ›
Items whose entry into Brazil is prohibited by the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture: fresh fruits and vegetables; insects, snails, bacteria and fungi; flowers and plants; bulbs, seeds, seedlings and cuttings; pets, such as dog and cat; poultry and wildfowl; exotic species, decorative fish, bird and bee; any animal ...
What's not allowed through customs? ›
Examples of prohibited items are dangerous toys, cars that don't protect their occupants in a crash, bush meat, or illegal substances like absinthe and Rohypnol. Restricted means that special licenses or permits are required from a federal agency before the item is allowed to enter the United States.
What medications are not allowed in Brazil? ›
Overview
| Class | Type of substance |
|---|
| A1 | Narcotic drugs: analgesics, opioids, non-opioids, other analgesics |
| A2 | Narcotic drugs: analgesics, opioids and non-opioids |
| A3 | Psychoactive drugs: central nervous system stimulants |
| B1 | Psychoactive drugs: antiepileptics, sleep inducers, anxiolytics, antidepressants, tranquilizers |
14 more rowsDeclare all items:This includes anything you purchased abroad, gifts, food items, and even medication. Declare everything accurately to avoid delays or fines. Familiarize yourself with US customs regulations:Visit the US Customs and Border Protection website for detailed information on prohibited and restricted items.
You are obliged to carry an identity document while in Brazil. However, as mentioned above, we recommend leaving your passport in a safe place in your hotel or accommodation carrying instead a laminated copy of your passport or applying for the new Passport Card.
What are the new rules for travel to Brazil? ›
Location: Brazil The Brazilian government postponed the visa requirement for U.S. nationals for one year. On April 10, 2025, the Government of Brazil will reinstate a visa requirement for all U.S. nationals visiting Brazil, with an option for an e-visa for qualified applicants.
What does a US citizen need to travel to Brazil? ›
You will need: A valid U.S. passport. A valid Brazilian visa or e-visa, beginning April 10, 2025 for tourists and currently for all other types of travel.
What to know before traveling to Brazil? ›
DO...
- Pack a theft-safe cross body bag. ...
- Be cautious of your valuables while sunbathing on the beach in Rio. ...
- leave one bank card in your suitcase. ...
- Use Uber if possible. ...
- Leave your passport in a safe place, and bring copies to the country. ...
- Bring minimal stuff when you go out to party. ...
- Try not to stand out as a tourist too much.
COVID-19 rules
There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Brazil.
Is Rio de Janeiro safe for American tourists? ›
Rio de Janeiro is generally considered safe to visit. The city has over 6.7 million residents and is a sizable destination, so it is no surprise that some travelers question its safety levels. Although Rio is relatively safe for tourists, it has a bad reputation due to film depictions and some dangerous areas.
Is Brazil visa postponed for US citizens? ›
Originally they were going to be required starting October of 2023. Then it got pushed to January of 2024, and subsequently to April 10, 2024. Due to continuing troubles getting the system to function properly, now they have announced that the date will be moved back a year – to April 10, 2025.
How much is a Brazil visa for US citizens? ›
Brazil e-visa fees for US Citizens
The Brazil tourist e-visa is a multiple entry, and the Brazil visa fee is $80.90.
