Whether you need a Brazil transit visa or eVisa depends on whether you clear Brazilian immigration during your layover. Airside transit passengers who remain in the international zone without passing through immigration generally do not need a visa or eVisa.
| Transit Type | Pass Through Immigration? | eVisa Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Airside transit (stay in international zone) | No | No |
| Landside transit (exit airport, stay in Brazil) | Yes | Yes |
| Connecting flight (different terminal, immigration needed) | Depends on airline routing | Check with airline |
Airside Transit: No Visa Needed
If you have a layover in Brazil and your connecting flight departs from the same international terminal – and you do not pass through Brazilian immigration or exit the secure transit zone – you do not need a Brazil eVisa. This is called airside transit.
Landside Transit: eVisa Required
If your layover in Brazil requires you to pass through immigration – for example to collect and re-check baggage, change terminals through a public area, or if you plan to leave the airport during your layover – you need a Brazil eVisa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens in this situation must apply at brazil.vfsevisa.com before traveling.
Is the Brazil eVisa Valid for Transit?
Yes. The Brazil eVisa covers transit as one of its permitted activities. If you are transiting through Brazil (passing through immigration), the standard tourist eVisa grants you up to 90 days. There is no separate transit visa category – the eVisa covers all permitted visit purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Brazil transit visa?
If you stay airside (no immigration clearance), no visa needed. If you pass through immigration, US/CA/AU citizens need a Brazil eVisa.
Does the eVisa cover transit?
Yes. Transit is a permitted activity on the standard eVisa. No separate transit visa exists.
Can I leave the airport during a Brazil layover?
Only with a valid Brazil eVisa (for US/CA/AU citizens). Exiting the airport means passing through immigration.