Brazil: Officials update some COVID-19-related restrictions as of March 31; travel measures maintained /update 52

Event

As of March 31, local officials continue to ease mask requirements in public settings in the Federal District, Sao Paulo State, and the city of Rio de Janeiro. Several states still require vaccination proof to enter certain businesses and attend events. From April 4, the city of Rio de Janeiro will require individuals over 18 years old to present proof of having received a booster dose of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to enter several non-essential businesses such as bars, restaurants, and gyms. Requirements to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination in the city will remain in place until at least 70 percent of the eligible population has received a booster dose.

Domestic Measures
Domestic restrictions can vary significantly by state or other jurisdiction. Some of the current domestic measures include:

• Federal District (Brasilia): The use of facemasks is currently only mandatory in indoor public spaces and on public transport; the requirement has been lifted in outdoor public areas. Businesses remain able to open mostly without time restrictions. Individuals may be asked to prove that they are fully vaccinated or have proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test to attend large events.

• Rio de Janeiro (city): The use of facemasks in the city of Rio de Janeiro has been lifted. However, within the state of Rio de Janeiro, some municipalities still require individuals to wear facemasks when indoors or on public transport. Most nonessential establishments require individuals to present proof of being fully vaccinated in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Individuals must present proof of vaccination to enter hotels, nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and several other establishments, as well as tourist attractions. From April 4, the city of Rio de Janeiro will require individuals over 18 years old to present proof of having received a booster dose of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to enter several non-essential businesses. Local authorities plan to lift the vaccination requirements once at least 70 percent of the eligible population has received a booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

• Sao Paulo (state): Authorities in Sao Paulo State no longer require individuals to wear masks in public spaces, except on public transport. Most businesses face no restrictions on opening times and capacity. Most events are allowed to take place; however, those attending large events may be required to present proof of being fully vaccinated. Some businesses may also ask individuals to show proof of vaccination to enter establishments. Restrictions may vary between municipalities.

International Travel Restrictions
All permitted travelers entering Brazil must present either a negative result from a COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before travel or a negative result from an antigen test taken within 24 hours before boarding. If travelers get on multiple flights but remain inside the airport during connections, the time count begins from the moment they board the first flight of their journey. Arrivals must also complete a pre-arrival health declaration form within 24 hours before boarding. These documents, including the test results, must be presented in either Portuguese, English, or Spanish. Foreign citizens are allowed to enter Brazil by land or air for visits of no longer than 90 days.

All travelers aged 12 years and over entering from abroad are required to have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 more than 14 days before entry. Citizens, legal residents, individuals with health exemptions, and those traveling from countries with very low vaccination rates are allowed to enter Brazil without proof of vaccination, but must quarantine for five days upon arrival; on the fifth day, they must take an additional antigen or PCR test, and if the result is negative they can end the quarantine.

Authorities have reopened land borders for non-resident foreign nationals. Those entering via land borders are subject to the same vaccination and testing requirements as those entering the country by air. Most nonresident foreign nationals also remain prohibited from entering the country by water.

State and municipal officials could continue to modify their local restrictions depending on local disease activity and government preparedness to respond to the disease. All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements before arrival. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Ministry of Health (Portuguese)
Sao Paulo State - COVID-19 (Portuguese)
Rio de Janeiro State - COVID-19 (Portuguese)