What Documents Do You Need to Travel Abroad?

Before booking your flight, it's worth checking the documentation required for your destination - every country has its own rules, and some processes take weeks to complete.

Passport

This is the basic document for any international trip. In Brazil, issuing a passport can take a few weeks, so it's best to apply well in advance. Many countries also require the passport to be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

Visa

This depends entirely on the destination and the traveler's nationality:

• Some countries don't require a visa for Brazilian tourists
• Others require an electronic visa, applied for online before the trip
• Some require an in-person consular process, which can take weeks

Vaccines

Certain destinations (mainly in Africa and parts of South America) require proof of yellow fever vaccination. It's worth checking the recommendations from Brazil's health authorities before you fly.

Travel insurance

In destinations such as the Schengen Area countries (Europe), travel insurance is mandatory, with a minimum coverage defined by law. Even where it isn't required, it's important protection against medical emergencies.

Our tip

Start organizing your documents as soon as you decide on a destination - not when you buy the ticket. Some visas and vaccines have a validity window from the date of issue, and leaving it to the last minute can be costly or even put the trip at risk.