Aerial panorama of Christ and Sugar Loaf Mountain, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil / Shutterstock
Brazil is the largest country in South America, but, until now, Canadians have required a visa to enjoy its offerings.
That all changed on Monday, March 18, however, when the Brazilian government decided to waive these requirements. In fact, the South American country waived visa requirements for the United States, Australia and Japan, too.
The new rules come into effect on June 17, and they allow Canadians to stay visa-free in Brazil for up to 90 days. Brazil hopes to boost tourism in the country as a result of the decision.
Brazilians still require a visa when they visit Canada.
With this in mind, the Government of Canada still advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Brazil, "due to high crime rates and regular incidents of gang-related and other violence in urban areas."
This risk level indicates that the government has identified safety and security concerns or the safety and security situation could change with little notice. As a result, you should exercise a high degree of caution at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
In addition, the government also advises that pregnant women and those planning a pregnancy should avoid travel to Zika-affected countries or areas. Zika virus infection during pregnancy increases the risk for serious birth defects since women can pass the virus to their unborn babies.
For more information about safety and security when travelling in Brazil, visit the Government of Canada's online portal.
