11 January 2016

BRAZIL OLYMPICS VISA-FREE

A bill has been approved that will exempt visa requirements to some foreigners coming to Brazil during the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. 

The unilateral visa waiver applies to visitors (tourists) entering Brazil between 01 June 2016 and 18 September 2016. It benefits nationals of Canada, Australia, the United States and Japan who travel to Brazil exclusively for tourism purposes for a period of up to 90 days from the date of first entry (non-extendable).

The visa exemption is solely for TOURISM. A valid travel document (Canadian passport) will be the only document required during that period. There will be no need to present proof of ticket purchase confirmation for the Rio 2016 Games. 

The exemption does not apply to nationals of the aforementioned countries wishing to perform other activities such as paid activities, research activities, internships, studies, volunteer work, technical assistance or activities of missionary, religious or artistic nature. 

From 19 September 2016 on, the previous regime of visa requirement will be reestablished