How to Get a Brazil Tourist Visa for US Citizens

US citizens need a tourist visa for Brazil, which costs $80 and takes 5-15 business days to process. Apply online through the Brazilian consulate website, submit required documents, and either mail your passport or visit in person depending on your location.

  1. Check if you need a visa. US citizens need a tourist visa for Brazil for stays up to 90 days. No exceptions for tourist travel, regardless of your other citizenships or passport types.
  2. Gather required documents. You need: valid US passport (6+ months remaining), completed online application form, passport photo (2x2 inches, white background), proof of round-trip flight or travel itinerary, bank statement from last month showing $2,000+ balance, and yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from certain countries.
  3. Complete the online application. Go to the Brazilian consulate website for your jurisdiction. Fill out the visa application form completely. Print the confirmation page and barcode - you'll need both. The form asks for accommodation details, so have hotel bookings or invitation letters ready.
  4. Pay the visa fee. Tourist visa costs $80 for US citizens. Pay online during the application process. Fee is non-refundable even if your visa is denied. Keep the payment receipt.
  5. Submit your application. Mail your passport, printed application, photo, and supporting documents to your regional Brazilian consulate. Use trackable shipping both ways. Some consulates accept walk-in applications - check your local office hours and requirements.
  6. Wait for processing. Standard processing takes 5-15 business days. Expedited service (2-3 days) costs an additional $35 at some consulates. Your passport will be returned with the visa sticker if approved.
  7. Check your visa before travel. Verify all details are correct on the visa sticker. Tourist visas are typically valid for 10 years with multiple entries, allowing 90-day stays that can be extended once for another 90 days while in Brazil.
Can I get a Brazil visa on arrival?
No. US citizens cannot get Brazil tourist visas on arrival. You must apply in advance through a Brazilian consulate.
How long is a Brazil tourist visa valid?
Tourist visas for US citizens are valid for 10 years from issue date, allowing multiple entries with 90-day stays each time.
What if my visa application is denied?
The $80 fee is non-refundable if denied. Common denial reasons include insufficient funds proof, incomplete applications, or missing documents. You can reapply once you fix the issues.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Brazil?
Only if you've visited yellow fever risk countries in the past year or plan to visit certain regions within Brazil. Check CDC recommendations for your specific travel history and destinations.
Can I extend my stay once in Brazil?
Yes, you can extend your tourist stay once for an additional 90 days at the Federal Police office in Brazil. This costs about $30 and must be done before your initial 90 days expire.