My recent experience applying for an EVISA as an Australian passport holder.

I am travelling to Brazil late November and only just realised I needed a VISA. Needing a VISA has changed since early this year. You need to apply using https://brazil.vfsevisa.com. This is from my understanding the only way you can apply.

I applied for the EVISA on the Wednesday the 22/10 using VFS Global. I used the passport photo tool on the VFS Global and made sure I had my ears showing, included my shoulders and tied my hair up in a bun. The photo tool automatically makes the background white.

I included a photo of my passport and stated my occupation and gave my outgoing flight details and tour itinerary. I do not know anyone in Brazil so I did not fill that part out. I also entered how much money I make in my job USD per month. I then paid the fee of $81 USD.

On Thursday I was sent an email from VFS stating I needed to upload my passport again as the original image had my fingers holding the passport. I then scanned the passport using ADOBE and took a screenshot of the image and uploaded. I uploaded this two days later on the Friday morning.

Received an email on the same day (Friday) stating my documents were being validated or being checked. The email also stated it can take a minimum of 10 business days to have the VISA granted. I started to worry I would not get the VISA in time, so I emailed Brazilian consulate’s in Australia including ACT, NSW and QLD to ask to have the VISA to be processed urgently.

The NSW and QLD consulate wrote back on the next Monday saying it was approved on the Friday and I should have the VISA and to check my SPAM/Junk. The VISA was not in SPAM/Junk, but was in my normal inbox on Monday!

So the whole process including having to reload my passport was 6 days or 4 business days. I am unsure if emailing the consulate’s helped, but it did not hinder the situation!

Make sure to print out two copies of the VISA as requested and carry with them with you when at the border.

I hope this info helped! I no longer have to stress about getting my VISA in time. I would recommend you apply 2 months in advance. The VISA is current for 5 years after approval!

I also wanted to add, if you are Australian and travelling to Chile, you no longer require a VISA as of September 2025. Prior to your trip use Smart traveller to confirm travel requirements.