GENERAL RULES
Foreign citizens travelling to Brazil as journalists (non correspondents), TV and filming crews are generally required to have this type of visa. The form for applying for a visa may be downloaded here (pdf file).
- First entry into Brazil must be within 90 days from the date the visa is issued (It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure the application is lodged accordingly)
- Exemption from this type of visa may be granted to citizens of Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, Morocco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal (only for journalists), San Marino, Slovenia, South Africa, the Sovereign Order of Malta (citizens of Malta must have a visa), Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, United Kingdom, Uruguay and the Vatican, provided that their stay in Brazil does not exceed 90 days, and they do not receive any payment in Brazil.
- When carrying professional equipment, it is recommended that nationals of the countries above obtain from the Consulate General a certificate of exemption, which should expedite Customs procedures for the temporary importation of that equipment into Brazil (Certificates of exemption are issued free of charge, against presentation of passport and a covering letter from the UK company)
- In the case of filming, prior approval of the project is required: the person intending to film (commercial, publicity and documentary) in Brazil must seek assistance from a Brazilian co-producer, who will apply to the Brazilian National Cinema Agency (ANCINE) on his behalf for approval
Once ANCINE’s approval to film is granted, the relevant authorisation is relayed to the Brazilian Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence, either by ANCINE itself or by the Brazilian co-producer.
Upon receipt of the authorisation and presentation of the applicant’s passport, the Consulate will issue the visa, or the certificate of exemption, as applicable.
ANCINE: tel: 5521 2233 6007, fax: 5521 2233-7833/8440, email: registro@ancine.gov.br
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
- Applicant’s passport, valid for no less than six months (Soiled, damaged or defaced passports will not be accepted)
- One visa application form, duly filled and signed by the applicant – One passport-size photograph
- A letter from the UK company or institution to which the applicant is linked
- Authorisation from ANCINE (for commercial, publicity and documentary filming solely)
- Certificate of vaccination, where necessary
- Receipt of payment of the consular fee
