Brazil travel guide

Travel Advice

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel   

Amazonas State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the following river areas towards the west of Amazonas State:  

• along the Amazonas (Amazon) River and its tributaries west of the town of Codajás and east of the town of Belém do Solimões in Amazonas State
• along any part of the Itaquaí River in Amazonas State
• along any part of the Japurá River or its tributaries in Amazonas State
• along the Rio Negro (Black River) and its tributaries north or west of the town of Barcelos in Amazonas State

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates 

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow and contact FCDO:    

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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Brazil’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Brazil set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Brazilian Embassy in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Brazil, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit Brazil without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism.

If you want to extend your tourist visa, contact the Federal Police (in Portuguese) before your visa expires.

For more information about visas, contact the Brazilian Consulate in London.

If you overstay your visa, you’ll face a daily fine. You have the option to pay this fine either when you leave Brazil or during your next visit.

Make sure the border control officer puts a stamp in your passport. If it is not stamped, you may be fined when you leave.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Brazil (in Portuguese).  

British-Brazilian dual nationals

Brazilian immigration authorities often require dual British-Brazilian nationals visiting Brazil to travel on Brazilian (rather than British) passports.

Travelling with children

Children with dual British-Brazilian citizenship

British-Brazilian dual nationals under the age of 18 who are travelling without both parents or legal guardians need authorisation from both parents or legal guardians to travel in Brazil or leave the country. Read more about the formal travel authorisation process for Brazilian minors and the frequently asked questions.

Children who are not dual British-Brazilian nationals

Families of non-Brazilian under-18s travelling through Brazil without one or both parents should follow the instructions for dual British-Brazilian under-18s. Make sure the under-18 or their travelling companion also carries the original or notarised copy of the under-18’s birth certificate. Contact the Brazilian Consulate in London for more information.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Brazil guide.

Customs rules  

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Brazil. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

Taking money into Brazil 

If you are bringing cash or travellers cheques into Brazil with a value of 10,000 US dollars or more, you will need to declare it online.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Brazil.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Brazil

Terrorist attacks in Brazil cannot be ruled out.

On 13 November 2024, two explosions occurred at the Praça dos Três Poderes in central Brasilia. You should exercise caution around major sites in large Brazilian cities.

Protests and civil unrest

Protests, demonstrations and strikes take place regularly in cities across Brazil. Even peaceful events can sometimes turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Police have used rubber bullets and tear gas extensively to disperse protesters.

You should:

• avoid political rallies or protests
• follow local news reports
• comply with the instructions of local authorities

If you encounter a protest or feel uncomfortable in a large gathering, leave the area immediately.

Favelas

Favelas (‘slum’ or ‘shanty town’) are urban neighbourhoods of high-density informal housing. They exist in all major Brazilian cities and can border areas used by tourists and visitors. 

The security situation in many favelas is unpredictable and can be dangerous. Tourists have been shot after accidentally entering favelas.

You should:

• avoid all favelas, including favela tours marketed to tourists and any accommodation, restaurants or bars advertised as being within a favela
• if you’re using GPS navigation, make sure the suggested route does not take you into a favela

If you’re unsure about a location, check with your hotel or the local authorities.

Crime

If you’re the victim of crime, contact the local police number 190 or the nearest British embassy or consulate.

Read our guidance if you’re the victim of a crime abroad.

Theft and robbery

Robberies are common in many cities, particularly on buses. Thieves target mobile phones, particularly between 4pm and 9pm. Attackers may be armed and under the influence of drugs. Do not resist attackers. If threatened, hand over your valuables without resistance.

Thefts are particularly common on public beaches and include ‘arrastões’ where large groups of thieves run through an area of the beach grabbing possessions. Keep your belongings close and avoid taking valuables to the beach. Do not go on to city beaches after dark.

Pickpocketing is common.

Criminals target large-scale celebrations in Brazil, such as the Carnival in major cities. Be aware of your personal security and surroundings. Be cautious about proposals from strangers that take you away from public areas.

To reduce your risk:

• avoid wearing expensive jewellery and watches
• avoid carrying large sums of money
• avoid using a mobile phone in the street
• leave your passport and valuables in a safe place

Criminal Kidnapping 

Short-term opportunistic kidnapping (called ‘express kidnapping’) can happen.  Victims have been kidnapped for a short period of time and driven to an ATM to withdraw money before being abandoned. Express kidnappers may use violence.

Scams

Bank and credit card scams are common, including card cloning from ATMs and in shops. Keep sight of your card and do not use an ATM if you notice anything suspicious.

If you withdraw cash at an ATM and the cash has pink marks on it, speak to the bank (or police) straight away to get it changed. It may have been marked as damaged or counterfeit.

Sexual assault and drink spiking

Rape and other sexual offences against tourists are not common, but there have been attacks against both women and men. Some have involved date rape drugs. Buy your own drinks and keep them in sight.

If you begin to feel strange, sick or drunk after only a couple of drinks, tell a trusted friend or security staff. They should take you to a safe place, such as your hotel room or a hospital. You can phone the local police, a hospital or the nearest British embassy or consulate for advice.

Read our advice on what to do if you have been raped, sexually assaulted or drugged abroad.

Child sexual abuse

There are cases of sexual abuse of children in Brazil. All sexual activity with children (people under the age of 18) is illegal, regardless of the age of consent locally. If you commit sex offences against children abroad, you can be prosecuted in the UK.

Parental child abduction

Parental child abduction is not common but can happen in Brazil. Dial 190 to report a missing child or go to the nearest police station. Read the guidance on international parental child abduction if your child may be at risk of this.    

Carjacking

Theft from cars is common. Keep valuables out of sight.

Carjacking can happen, particularly on major roads and in tunnels. To reduce your risk:

• approach your car with your keys in your hand so you can get into your car quickly
• keep doors locked and windows closed
• take particular care at traffic lights
• be cautious of people approaching to ask for information, especially at night
• if driving at night outside the city, avoid stopping at the roadside – if you must stop, try to stop in a well-lit area

Organised crime and militias 

Organised crime groups and militias operate in Brazil, including in many cities. Armed incidents, including police operations, can occur with little warning. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid favelas and suburbs where possible.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID 

Always carry a copy of your passport and another form of photo ID if you have one.

Illegal drugs and trafficking scams

Drug trafficking is widespread in Brazil. It is illegal and the penalties are severe.

British nationals have been targeted through email scams where fraudsters offer a financial reward for travelling to Brazil, where they are then asked to carry items out of Brazil, including to the UK. These items are often illegal drugs. Anyone caught will face detention for drug trafficking, regardless of the circumstances.

Electronic smoking devices

All electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are illegal in Brazil, including refills, parts and accessories.

Customs officials have the authority to confiscate any vape products found in travellers’ luggage (both checked in and carry on) during inspections.

LGBT+ travellers

There is no legislation against same-sex sexual activity in Brazil. Same-sex marriage is legal and LGBT+ couples have equal rights in law.

São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and other cities hold Pride events, which attract large numbers. These events are usually very peaceful.

Brazil is generally tolerant. However, Brazilian society is quite conservative, particularly outside the larger towns and cities. There are reports of discrimination, violence and harassment against the LGBT+ community. Urban areas are usually more accepting. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety

Strong currents can be a danger off some beaches. Get local advice before going in the water. Pay attention to warning flags and the location of lifeguards if present on the beach.

Shark attacks are a danger, particularly on the beaches around Recife in north-east Brazil. Pay attention to warning signs and consult lifeguards if unsure. Sharks have been known to attack in waist-deep water and deaths have occurred.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Brazil, see information on driving abroad.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Brazil. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

After 180 days, you need to apply for a Brazilian driving licence.

Driving standards

Brazil has a high road accident rate. Driving standards are poor. Take care on the roads and avoid riding bicycles. In many rural areas, roads are in poor condition away from the main highways. Bus and coach crashes are frequent.

Immediately report all accidents to the police: call 190 or go to a police station.

Contact the police if vehicles are obstructing traffic and you need help.

Drink-driving

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Brazil and checkpoints are often set up. If you’re caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you will be prosecuted. Penalties range from fines and a suspension from driving for 12 months, to up to 3 years in prison.

Air travel

If you have been a victim of a passport theft and you need to fly to Brasilia, São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro for consular services, you can travel on domestic flights with a valid photo ID or a police report.   

Check whether your tour operator has concerns about airlines in Brazil.

Sea travel

There have been armed and unarmed attacks on merchant vessels, including British flag vessels off the Brazilian coast and in some Brazilian ports.

Rail travel

There have been instances of theft and robbery on the rail network, including urban metro rail networks. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and watches or using a mobile phone during train travel.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Heavy rainfall 

The rainy season runs from November until March in the south and south-east of Brazil (including Rio de Janeiro) and from April until July in the north-east of Brazil. However heavy rainfall and flooding can also occur outside of the designated rainy seasons, in any region of the country.

Heavy rainfall often disrupts infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Flash floods and landslides are common in regions where mountains are close to the coast, such as Rio de Janeiro. This includes in tourist areas. People have drowned when swept away in fast flowing water. Cars and buses have been caught in landslides, resulting in deaths.

Monitor local media and follow local authority warnings which are displayed on digital street signs and sent to hotels and hostels. Follow any instructions given by the local authorities. Avoid travelling on the road during heavy rain. If you are outside when the rain starts, avoid walking in flooded areas, and do not cross fast flowing water, however shallow you think it is.

Forest fires

Forest fires are common from May to September, especially during July and August due to the dry season. They are highly dangerous and unpredictable. Check the latest alerts and weather forecast (in Portuguese) and follow the advice of local authorities if you’re considering travelling to affected areas.

This section has safety advice for regions of Brazil. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice. You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Amazonas State 

River travel 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel:   

• along the Amazonas (Amazon) River and its tributaries west of the town of Codajás and east of the town of Belém do Solimões in Amazonas State 

• along any part of the Itaquaí River in Amazonas State 

• along any part of the Japurá River or its tributaries in Amazonas State 

• along the Rio Negro (Black River) and its tributaries north or west of the town of Barcelos in Amazonas State 

There are risks to travellers in river areas towards the west of Amazonas State, where Brazil shares borders with Colombia, Peru and Venezuela, due to criminal activity. Armed groups, including pirates and drug traffickers, travel by the river routes in the Amazonas state where is there is low presence of police and local authorities.

Rio de Janeiro

The most common incidents affecting British nationals in Rio de Janeiro are thefts and pickpocketing around:

• Copacabana beach
• Ipanema beach
• Lapa
• Santa Teresa

Tourists have reported armed robberies on the Corcovado walking trail to the Christ the Redeemer statue. See our advice on Theft and robbery.

São Paulo

The most common incidents affecting British nationals in São Paulo are thefts or pickpocketing around:

• Avenida Paulista
• the historical downtown area
• the red light districts located on Rua Augusta (north of Avenida Paulista)
• Catedral da Sé
• Praça da República
• the Estacao de Luz metro area (where Cracolandia is located)

See our advice on Theft and robbery.

Brasilia

Theft

In Brasilia, the central bus station area has a lot of incidents of theft. Theft from pedestrians also happens across the city, especially in the central and southern commercial centres. Take particular care at these locations. See our advice on Theft and robbery.

North-east Brazil

Theft

The most common incidents affecting British nationals in north-east Brazil are theft from hotel and motel rooms and muggings. Reduce the risk of being mugged by avoiding quiet or deserted areas and by using taxis after sunset instead of walking. See our advice on Theft and robbery.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 192 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccination recommendations for Brazil
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Brazil, including:

• yellow fever
• dengue
• chikungunya
• oropouche
• high UV levels

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Brazil. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

If you’re taking medication, bring a prescription or letter from your doctor confirming your need to carry the medication. Bring enough to last your whole trip, as some medicines may not be available locally. Counterfeit drugs can be an issue, so it’s better to travel with your own supplies.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Brazil

Foreign nationals are entitled to emergency medical treatment in Brazilian public hospitals. Public hospitals in Brazil, especially in major cities, tend to be overcrowded and there’s often a long wait for a bed and a lack of medication. Private hospitals will not accept you unless you can show evidence of enough money or insurance to cover your treatment.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Brazil where some staff will speak English.  

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Brazil.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Brazil

Ambulance: 192

Fire: 193

Police: 190 or 911

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers and funeral directors in Brazil
• dealing with a death in Brazil
• being arrested or imprisoned in Brazil
• getting help if you’re a victim of rape or sexual assault in Brazil
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO  

Help abroad   

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.  

Help in the UK   

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.   

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)   

Find out about call charges 

Get travel advice updates   

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.   

Follow and contact FCDO:  

• travel advice on X 

• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Brazil on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.