Can I use a tourist visa for business meetings?

No. Brazilian authorities specifically require business visas for any commercial activities, including meetings, conferences, or negotiations. Tourist visas prohibit business activities.

What if I don't have a Brazilian business contact yet?

You need an invitation letter from a Brazilian entity. If attending a conference, the organizers can provide this. For prospecting trips, consider working with a Brazilian trade organization or chamber of commerce.

How long can I stay on a business visa?

Up to 90 days per entry. The visa itself may be valid for multiple entries over 1-5 years, but each individual stay is limited to 90 days.

Do I need a yellow fever vaccine?

Only if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk or transiting through one for more than 12 hours. Check CDC recommendations for your specific routing.

How to Get a Business Visa for Brazil

Apply for a Brazilian business visa (VITEM II) through the nearest Brazilian consulate 30-60 days before travel. You'll need an invitation letter from your Brazilian business partner, proof of employment, and standard documents. Processing takes 5-15 business days and costs $160 for most nationalities.

Get an invitation letter from your Brazilian contact. Your Brazilian business partner must provide a carta convite (invitation letter) on company letterhead. It must include your full name, passport number, purpose of visit, dates of stay, and confirmation they'll cover expenses or that you're financially responsible. The letter should be signed by an authorized company representative.
Gather required documents. Collect: valid passport (6+ months remaining), completed visa application form, 2x2 inch photo, invitation letter, employment verification letter from your employer, bank statements from last 3 months showing sufficient funds, round-trip flight reservation, and yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from endemic areas.
Schedule appointment at Brazilian consulate. Book online through the consulate's website in your jurisdiction. Popular consulates (NYC, LA, Miami) book 2-3 weeks out. Some locations allow walk-ins but appointments are faster. Bring all original documents plus copies.
Submit application and pay fees. Attend your appointment with all documents. Pay the $160 visa fee (varies by nationality - Canadians pay $65, for example). Some consulates accept cash only, others take money orders. Confirm payment methods when booking.
Wait for processing and collect visa. Standard processing takes 5-15 business days. Rush service (3-5 days) costs extra $35. You'll receive a sticker visa in your passport valid for multiple entries within the validity period shown. Check all details are correct before leaving the consulate.

Can I use a tourist visa for business meetings?: No. Brazilian authorities specifically require business visas for any commercial activities, including meetings, conferences, or negotiations. Tourist visas prohibit business activities.
What if I don't have a Brazilian business contact yet?: You need an invitation letter from a Brazilian entity. If attending a conference, the organizers can provide this. For prospecting trips, consider working with a Brazilian trade organization or chamber of commerce.
How long can I stay on a business visa?: Up to 90 days per entry. The visa itself may be valid for multiple entries over 1-5 years, but each individual stay is limited to 90 days.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccine?: Only if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk or transiting through one for more than 12 hours. Check CDC recommendations for your specific routing.