Planning a trip from India to Brazil and already hold a valid U.S. visa? Here’s your ultimate resource. From understanding requirements, fees, and processing time to refunds and special rules for U.S. visa holders, this guide equips you to sail through the entire process smoothly.
Who Needs a Brazil e‑Visa
Indian citizens, regardless of U.S. visa status, must apply for a Brazil visa.
U.S. visa holders may apply online for a Brazil e‑Visa, designed to simplify entry and reduce paperwork.
Since April 10, 2025, Brazil reinstated visa requirements for travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Australia, aligning with its reciprocity policy.
Documentation Requirements
When applying via VFS Global, ensure you have the following:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
- Recent passport-size photo per ICAO standards
- Completed online visa form
- Proof of financial means
- U.S. visa holders: last 3 bank statements or 6 pay stubs with at least US $2,000 balance
- Indian citizens: recent bank statements, salary slips, or ITR
- Flight itinerary (round trip)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel or invitation letter)
- Letter of intent outlining trip purpose and duration (for U.S. visa holders)
- Copy of valid U.S. visa
- For minors: parental consent letter if traveling alone or with one parent
Fees, Duration and Validity
Visa fee is approximately US $80.90 (around INR 6,600), valid for 10 years, allowing multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days per year.
VFS service charges are additional and vary between INR 1,000 to 2,000 based on location.
The visa is valid for 10 years from the date of issue and permits a maximum of 90 days of stay in Brazil within any 12-month period.
Processing and Timeline
It’s recommended to apply at least 2 months before your travel date.
The official processing time is usually 5 business days, but delays may occur if documents are unclear or incomplete.
Travelers have shared real experiences where processing took 5 to 7 days, mostly dependent on photo quality and document clarity.
How to Apply Online
- Go to the Brazil VFS e‑Visa portal
- Register an account and upload the required documents including passport, photo, U.S. visa, financial proof, and itinerary
- Pay both the government visa fee and VFS service charges
- Track your application via email or the VFS portal
- Once approved, download the e‑Visa and print it to carry for immigration
Refund and Cancellation Policy
Visa fees are non-refundable once the application is processed or the visa is issued.
VFS service fees may be refundable if the application is canceled before document submission. Refunds generally take up to 15 working days.
If you want to cancel, do it early to increase your chances of getting any refund.
Summary Checklist
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Recent ICAO-compliant photo
- Completed online visa form
- Proof of financial means
- Confirmed round-trip flight
- Accommodation proof
- Letter of intent (U.S. visa holders)
- Copy of U.S. visa
Tips and Best Practices
Make sure your photo meets the white background and clarity standards
Apply two months before travel to allow time for corrections if needed
Keep digital and printed copies of everything including receipts and approvals
Monitor the status of your application regularly
Be aware of your visa’s validity and usage window
Special Provision for U.S. Visa Holders
Having a valid U.S. visa makes the process slightly smoother.
It strengthens your profile in terms of credibility.
You’ll still need to include all required documents, but your application is more likely to be approved quickly.
Upon Arrival in Brazil
Keep a printed copy of your e‑Visa ready for inspection.
Immigration officers may ask to see proof of funds, return tickets, and hotel bookings.
Follow Brazil’s customs rules, especially on declaring high-value items or large sums of cash.
Applying for a Brazil e-Visa from India is simple and efficient, especially for those with a U.S. visa. With proper preparation, a clear understanding of documentation, and enough buffer time, you can expect a smooth visa approval process.