Brazil to mandate visas for American travelers starting in 2025

Brazil’s government has once again delayed the implementation of tourist visa requirements for travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia. Originally set to go into effect on October 1, 2023, the requirement was first pushed back to January 10, 2024, then to April 10, 2024, and now to April 10, 2025.

The Brazilian Tourist Board cited the need for additional time to complete the implementation of the e-visa system and ensure a smooth transition without disrupting the flow of tourists during peak seasons. The e-visa will cost $81 per person and will be valid for 10 years for U.S. citizens and 5 years for Canadian and Australian visitors, allowing for multiple entries within that timeframe.

Travelers will need to apply for the e-visa online at brazil.vfsevisa.com, providing personal information and passport details. The processing time is expected to be up to five business days, but authorities recommend applying at least two months in advance to allow for any corrections or additional documents.

The decision to reinstate visa requirements stems from the lack of reciprocity between Brazil and the United States, Canada, and Australia, where Brazilian nationals are required to obtain visas for entry. Negotiations are ongoing to potentially waive the visa requirement if reciprocity agreements are reached.

In the meantime, Japanese tourists can continue to visit Brazil visa-free, as an agreement has been reached between the two countries. The European Union has also postponed its pretravel registration program, ETIAS, until the first half of 2025, affecting U.S. citizens traveling to Schengen Area countries. Stay updated for further developments on visa requirements for international travel.