Are there any areas in Brazil I should avoid?

Yes, the Department of State advises against travel to areas within 160 km/100 miles of Brazil’s land borders (excluding Foz do Iguacu and Pantanal National Parks) and all informal housing developments (favelas) due to crime.

Is it safe to use public transport in Brazil?

U.S. government employees are advised not to use municipal buses due to a serious risk of robbery and assault. Exercise extreme caution on all public transport.

What precautions should I take against crime?

Stay aware of surroundings, do not resist robbery attempts, avoid accepting drinks from strangers, use caution at night, and do not display signs of wealth. Be alert to dating app scams involving drugging.

What is the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)?

STEP is a free service provided by the U.S. government allowing U.S. citizens traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. It helps you get important information, and helps the Embassy locate you in an emergency.

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eVisa requiredMedium paperwork

Do US citizens need a visa for Brazil?

U.S. citizens need an eVisa for tourism in Brazil starting April 10, 2024.

Apply on the official siteUS State Department travel advice — last checked 28 June 2026

Always confirm with the official source before you travel.

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Deep breath. Here's the answer.

As of April 10, 2024, U.S. passport holders are required to obtain an eVisa to enter Brazil for tourism purposes. This electronic visa can be applied for online before your trip, streamlining the entry process compared to traditional visa applications.

Key facts

For United States passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

Passport	Regular US passport
Purpose	Tourism
Visa required	Yes — eVisa
Maximum stay	Not specified in markdown, verify on the official source. Typically up to 90 days for tourism.
Passport validity	Not specified in markdown, verify on the official source. Usually 6 months beyond intended departure.
Return/onward ticket	Not specified in markdown, Recommended (verify on official source)
Arrival form	None mentioned
Last checked	28 June 2026

You may need a visa if…

An eVisa is required for U.S. citizens to enter Brazil for tourism as of April 10, 2024.
The Travel Advisory for Brazil is 'Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution' due to crime and kidnapping.
Specific areas, including certain border regions and informal housing developments (favelas), are designated as 'Level 4: Do Not Travel'.
Violent crime is common in urban areas, and tourists are advised to be vigilant.
Do not accept food or drinks from strangers, as drugging for robbery is common.
U.S. government employees are advised not to use municipal buses due to high risk of robbery and assault.

Before you travel

Apply for and obtain the Brazil eVisa online before your trip.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and for easier location in emergencies.
Review the Country Security Report for Brazil.
Develop a communication plan with family/friends for safety monitoring.
Purchase travel insurance with evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
Check the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information for Brazil.