B1/B2 visa for Brazilians traveling to the U.S.

The B1/B2 visa for Brazilians is one of the most popular visas for travelers to the USA for tourism, business or family visits. Unlike nationals of certain countries who are exempt from visa requirements thanks to the ESTA program, Brazilian citizens are required to go through this procedure.

What is the B1/B2 visa?

The B1/B2 visa is the document most commonly issued to Brazilian citizens wishing to travel to the United States. It combines two distinct uses in a single authorization:

• The B1 visa is intended for business travel. It allows you to attend a conference, meet partners or negotiate a contract.
• The B2 visa is intended for tourism, vacation or family visits. For many Brazilians, this visa represents the gateway to the United States, whether to discover the country, develop a professional project or simply visit relatives.

How to apply for a B1/B2 visa in Brazil

Here are the main steps involved in applying for a B1/B2 visa in Brazil:

1. Complete Form DS-160 online.
2. Pay visa fees (approx. 185 USD in 2025).
3. Create a profile on the official U.S. State Department website.
4. Make an appointment at CASV (Centro de Atendimento ao Solicitante de Visto).
5. Attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy (São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Recife). At this interview, the consular officer assesses whether the applicant has guarantees of return to Brazil, such as stable employment, strong family ties or proof of financial solvency.
6. Receive your visa and affix it to your passport for travel to the USA.

Documents required to apply for a B1/B2 visa

• Valid Brazilian passport.
• DS-160 confirmation page.
• Appointment confirmation.
• Photo complies with U.S. requirements.
• Financial documents (bank statements, pay slips).
• Proof of strong ties with Brazil (employment contract, real estate, family).

Validity and duration of B1/B2 visa for Brazilians

Once obtained, the B1/B2 visa is generally valid for ten years, making it a very practical document for frequent travelers. Each entry into the U.S. allows you to stay for up to six months, but the exact duration is decided by the immigration officer on arrival. It is therefore important to prepare for your trip, and to be able to clearly explain the reason for your stay and the expected duration.

FAQ – B1/B2 Visa for Brazilians