Understand what changes in travel for Brazilians to Europe.

Recently, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva approved a new agreement between Brazil and the European Union that updates the visa exemption rules for short-term trips by Brazilians to European countries. The measure standardizes the permitted length of stay and aligns the agreement with the rules used in the Schengen Area.

In practice, the agreement maintains the possibility for Brazilians to travel to Europe without a visa for tourism or business, as long as they respect the length of stay limit defined by European immigration rules.

How does the residency rule work in Europe?

With the updated agreement, Brazilians will be able to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period in countries that are part of the Schengen Area.

This model was already in use in Europe, but it is now officially recognized in the bilateral agreement, avoiding differing interpretations regarding the permitted length of stay.

In practice, this means that:

• Visitors can stay for up to 90 consecutive or non-consecutive days.

• The period is counted within a rolling 180-day window.

• The rule applies to tourism, family visits, and short-term business trips.

The same rules apply to Europeans wishing to visit Brazil.

Furthermore, if the traveler wishes to stay longer, it will be necessary to apply for a specific residence or study visa.

What changes for Brazilians who want to travel to Europe?

Despite maintaining the visa exemption, a new requirement will come into effect in the coming years.

Brazilians will need to apply for an electronic authorization called ETIAS, a European system for prior screening of travelers.

How does ETIAS work?

• Online request before the trip

• Approximate fee of 20 euros

• Valid for up to 3 years or directly linked to the passport's validity.

• Required for travelers from countries with visa-exempt status.

The aim of this measure is to strengthen security and immigration control in the countries of the Schengen Area.

ETIAS is expected to come into effect in the last quarter of 2026.

In addition to facilitating short-term travel, the updated treaty helps maintain clearer immigration rules that are more aligned with the European system, preventing problems for Brazilians entering the continent.