Brazil
Travel restrictions
Effective December 17th, Brazil extended the restrictions on entry of foreigners by land (unless for transit) and sea, for an indefinite period. The entry of foreign visitors traveling by air for a short stay of up to 90 days is currently permitted.
The Brazilian government recommends those experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to self-quarantine for 15 days.
Beginning December 30th, all travelers to Brazil arriving by air must present the following to the airline before boarding:
- Negative COVID-19 test: specifically, a document from a laboratory test (RT-PCR) for screening for infection by SARS-CoV-2, with a negative/non-reactive result, performed within 72 hours prior to the moment of boarding;
- Traveler’s Health Declaration (DSV): filled out (in print or digitally) agreeing to sanitary measures that must be complied with during the traveler’s time in Brazil. Note: the Brazilian government has not issued the specifics of this document yet but it is understood that the form will be distributed prior to boarding the airplane to Brazil.
Effective December 25th, international flights to Brazil originating in or passing through the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland are prohibited on a temporary basis.
Measures taken by the government
Several state and local governments across Brazil have issued decrees that restrict the movement of people and require the use of facial coverings (masks) to combat the spread of COVID-19.
Testing
PCR and antigen tests are available for foreigners in Brazil.
Test results are usually available within 72 hours but there is no guarantee that tests or results will be available to meet your departure timing requirements.
In the private healthcare system, there are many private labs that perform COVID-19 testing. Prices vary but COVID-19 tests typically run between $60 and $100.
Turn-around time varies with demand, but usually is around one to three days and is accessible electronically. Express results within 2 hours are available in many locations at an increased fee, including in the Guarulhos International Airport in Sao Paulo.
Testing is available in the private sector without a doctor’s prescription.
In the public healthcare system, each Brazilian state has its own COVID-19 testing plan so it is best to contact local/state authorities for more information. Typically, a COVID-19 test is ordered by an Emergency Room physician and then sent to a public lab. Turnaround time is much slower (can take up to seven days) but is generally free. Some states do free-of-charge drive through testing but this tends to be arranged ahead of time via appointment.
Emergency number (related to COVID-19) while visiting the country
Dial 136 to reach the Ministry Of Health hotline.
Source:
US Embassy in Brazil https://br.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/
Published on March 9th 2021 (checked on March 31st 2021)
For more information please visit our COVID-19 Updates page at https://www.hiddentrails.com/article/covid19update.aspx