Many travelers wonder if they can get a visa on arrival in Brazil. In 2026, Brazil does not offer a traditional visa on arrival for most nationalities. However, understanding who can enter Brazil without prior authorization – and who needs to apply in advance – is essential before you book your trip.
Does Brazil Have a Visa on Arrival?
Brazil does not operate a traditional “visa on arrival” system where travelers can pay and receive a visa stamp at the airport. Instead, Brazil’s entry arrangements fall into three categories:
- Visa-free entry – No prior application needed (EU, UK, most of Latin America, Japan, etc.)
- eVisa required – Online application before travel (US, Canada, Australia)
- Consular visa required – In-person application at Brazilian embassy before travel
There is no option to simply arrive at a Brazilian airport and obtain a visa on the spot for nationalities that require one.
Who Can Enter Brazil Without Prior Application?
Citizens of the following groups can enter Brazil directly without any prior visa or authorization:
- All 27 EU member states – up to 90 days visa-free
- United Kingdom – up to 90 days visa-free
- Most Latin American countries (Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Mexico, etc.) – up to 90 days visa-free
- Japan, South Korea – up to 90 days visa-free
- South Africa, Israel – visa-free arrangements
See the full list on our Brazil eVisa Eligible Countries page.
US, Canadian, and Australian Citizens: eVisa Required in Advance
As of April 10, 2025, US, Canadian, and Australian citizens must obtain a Brazil eVisa before traveling. There is no way to obtain this on arrival. Airlines will refuse boarding to passengers who cannot show a valid eVisa at check-in.
The Brazil eVisa must be applied for through brazil.vfsevisa.com at least 2 weeks before your departure date. Key facts:
- Fee: $80.90 USD (non-refundable)
- Processing time: up to 5 business days
- Validity: 10 years (US), 5 years (CA, AU)
Full application guide: How to Apply for Brazil eVisa.
What If I Arrive Without a Visa?
If you are a nationality that requires an eVisa or consular visa and you arrive at a Brazilian airport without the required authorization:
- Airlines will typically deny boarding at your departure airport, so this scenario rarely reaches Brazil itself
- If you do somehow arrive, Brazilian immigration will deny entry and you will be returned on the next available flight at your own expense
- You may also be fined and banned from future entry
Emergency Entry Options
If you urgently need to enter Brazil without time to obtain an eVisa, your options are limited:
- Contact the nearest Brazilian consulate or embassy for an emergency or expedited visa
- Check if your nationality is visa-free (in which case no advance application is needed)
- If you have already applied and are waiting for approval, contact VFS Global support with your reference number
Read our Brazil eVisa Processing Time guide for what to do in urgent situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can US citizens get a visa on arrival in Brazil?
No. US citizens must obtain a Brazil eVisa before traveling through brazil.vfsevisa.com. There is no visa on arrival option. Airlines check for the eVisa at departure.
Can I get a Brazil eVisa at the airport?
No. The Brazil eVisa is an electronic authorization issued online before travel. There are no eVisa kiosks or counters at Brazilian airports. Apply at brazil.vfsevisa.com at least 2 weeks before your flight.
Do EU citizens need any prior authorization to enter Brazil?
No. EU citizens can enter Brazil directly with their passport – no visa, no eVisa, no prior registration. This is sometimes informally described as “visa on arrival” since no advance application is needed, though technically it is visa-free entry.
What is the difference between visa-free entry and visa on arrival?
Visa-free entry means you need no visa at all. Visa on arrival means you obtain a visa document when you land at the airport (before clearing immigration). Brazil offers the former for eligible nationalities but not the latter.
