August 2, 2021: Information on entry restrictions, testing and quarantine regulations in Brazil
If you’re planning a trip to Brazil, here’s what you’ll need to know and expect if you want to visit during the global coronavirus pandemic.
Brazil has been one of the hardest hit countries by the pandemic. It holds the second highest death toll in the world, second only to the United States.
The Brazilian government has done little to limit the spread nationally. Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro has criticized the use of masks and lambasted governors who adopt regional lockdown measures.
The Gamma Covid-19 variant spread rapidly across Brazil and then around the globe, and is thought to be more contagious.
Hospitals in Brazil have been struggling. Intubation, medication and oxygen have repeatedly run low at points during the pandemic.
Almost everyone. Brazil’s government has been infamously relaxed about the pandemic — and that includes border control. Following a brief closure in 2020, the borders are now open, including to almost all tourists, for stays of up to 90 days.
British visitors are out of luck — Brazil has banned flights to and from the UK since the announcement of the Alpha variant of Covid-19 first detected in England — and nobody who has been in the UK in the past 14 days can go, other than residents, family members of Brazilian nationals, and some business travel.
Brazil has also banned flights coming from or transiting through India and South Africa.
Entry requirements
If flying, before boarding, all arrivals must present a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours, and a traveler’s health declaration form to their airline before boarding (the airline will distribute the form).
Land and sea borders are closed to non-residents, unless en route to fly home. In that case, travelers must get authorization in advance, present a note from their own embassy or consulate authorizing their crossing at the border, show the plane ticket and go straight to the airport.
There is no quarantine on arrival. Even quarantine for those with symptoms is voluntary.
US CDC travel advisory:
Level 4: Very High. Do not travel to Brazil.
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