How visa free entry of 114 countries including Schengen nations, surge travel in Brazil?

Published on June 12, 2024

As of 2024, Brazil has expanded its visa-free entry policy to include citizens from 114 countries, a strategic move poised to significantly boost international tourism. This inclusive approach opens Brazil’s doors wider to travelers from across Europe, South America, Asia, Oceania, and North America, promising an influx of tourists eager to explore the country’s rich culture and natural beauty.

Brazilian citizens can travel visa-free to 114 countries. Here is the list:

Europe

• Albania
• Andorra
• Austria
• Belarus
• Belgium
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Moldova
• Monaco
• Montenegro
• North Macedonia
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Russia
• San Marino
• Serbia
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Ukraine
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

Africa

• Angola
• Botswana
• Cape Verde
• Eswatini
• Mauritius
• Morocco
• Namibia
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• Senegal
• Seychelles
• South Africa
• Tunisia

Americas

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina
• Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belize
• Bolivia
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Dominica
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador
• El Salvador
• Grenada
• Guatemala
• Guyana
• Haiti
• Honduras
• Jamaica
• Nicaragua
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Suriname
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Uruguay
• Venezuela

Asia

• Armenia
• Georgia
• Iran
• Israel
• Japan
• Kazakhstan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Malaysia
• Mongolia
• Oman
• Philippines
• Qatar
• Singapore
• Tajikistan
• Thailand
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• Uzbekistan

Oceania

• Fiji
• Kiribati
• Micronesia
• Vanuatu

Visa-Free Access by Region

European Union and Schengen Area: All 27 European Union member states, including Schengen countries like Germany, France, Spain, and Portugal, can now send travelers to Brazil without a visa for up to 90 days. This is expected to spur a significant increase in European visitors, given Brazil’s appeal as a winter escape and cultural destination.

South America: Brazil’s neighboring countries—Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Uruguay—already benefit from regional agreements allowing extended stays. This fosters stronger regional tourism and economic integration, with easy cross-border travel.

North America and the UK: Citizens from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom enjoy visa-free access to Brazil, with the UK allowing stays of up to 180 days. This is particularly significant as these countries represent some of the largest sources of long-haul tourists.

Asia and Oceania: Japan and South Korea (90 days), along with Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific nations, also benefit from visa-free travel to Brazil. This is expected to enhance visitor numbers from these regions, known for their strong interest in Brazilian culture and nature.

Middle East and Africa: Countries such as Israel and South Africa (90 days), along with the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, are included in the visa-free list, facilitating travel from regions with growing outbound tourism markets.

Brazil’s Tourist Hotspots

Brazil’s diverse attractions ensure that visitors from around the world can find something to suit their tastes. Here are some of the top destinations likely to captivate international travelers:

• Rio de Janeiro: Famous for its iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the towering Christ the Redeemer statue, and the vibrant Carnival festival, Rio is a must-visit.
• São Paulo: As Brazil’s largest city, São Paulo is a hub of business, culture, and culinary delights, attracting both business and leisure travelers.
• Amazon Rainforest: Offering unparalleled biodiversity, the Amazon is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers.
• Iguaçu Falls: This stunning natural wonder on the border with Argentina is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world.
• Salvador: Known for its Afro-Brazilian culture, historic architecture, and lively music scene, Salvador provides a unique cultural experience.
• Brasília: Brazil’s capital city is renowned for its modernist architecture and design, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Florianópolis: This island city is famous for its beautiful beaches and is a popular destination for surfing and water sports.

Surge in International Visitors

Brazil’s push for visa-free travel is already paying dividends. According to the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism, international arrivals in the first quarter of 2024 showed a 15% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This growth is largely driven by the simplified entry process for travelers from the newly included countries.

Statistics by Country:

• United States: The U.S. remains one of the top sources of visitors, with over 590,000 arrivals in 2023.
• Germany: With over 300,000 German tourists annually, Germany is a key market, and the new visa-free policy is expected to boost these numbers.
• France: French tourists, who traditionally favor Brazil for its cultural and natural attractions, are anticipated to visit in greater numbers.
• Japan and South Korea: Asian markets are growing rapidly, with Japan and South Korea collectively contributing tens of thousands of visitors each year.
• United Kingdom: The UK’s extended stay policy is likely to attract more British tourists, already exceeding 200,000 visitors annually.
• Canada: Canadians are also expected to benefit from the new policies, with current figures at around 80,000 annual visitors.

Economic and Diplomatic Impact

Brazil’s decision to expand visa-free entry is not just about tourism; it’s also a diplomatic and economic strategy. The World Travel & Tourism Council highlights that tourism contributed over 8.5% to Brazil’s GDP in 2019. By making it easier for travelers to visit, Brazil aims to revitalize its tourism industry, which was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This policy enhances Brazil’s attractiveness as a global destination, fostering greater cultural exchange and economic ties with countries worldwide. As the world opens up again, Brazil’s welcoming stance positions it as a top choice for international travelers looking for adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

With these expansive visa-free policies, Brazil is set to see a surge in international tourists in 2024. Whether it’s the allure of Rio’s beaches, the mystique of the Amazon, or the vibrancy of its cities, Brazil offers an unparalleled travel experience that’s now more accessible than ever. Travelers should always check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before their trip to ensure a smooth journey.

For more detailed information on Brazil’s visa policies and travel opportunities, visitors can refer to the official Brazilian tourism website or consult their local Brazilian consulate.