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Visa Type

Courtesy Visa (VICOR) — Brazil

Reviewed by VisaMind Editorial·Last updated 2026-03-04

Brazil • SPECIAL visa pathway

Guide to the Courtesy Visa (VICOR) for Brazil.

Key takeaways

  • Processing time for the Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is between 5 to 10 days, as of February 2026.
  • The Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is specifically managed by Brazil's Polícia Federal and involves a ministry-to-ministry communication process.
  • If you are involved in diplomatic missions, you may qualify for the Courtesy Visa (VICOR).
  • Filing the VICOR form with the Polícia Federal does not guarantee approval.

Official sources referenced

What This Visa Covers

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The Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is typically processed within 5 to 10 days by the Federal Police (Polícia Federal), as of February 2026. This visa is primarily intended for diplomats and foreign officials, providing them with the necessary permissions to enter and carry out their duties in Brazil.

Eligibility Criteria for VICOR The

Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is issued to individuals who are part of official delegations or hold diplomatic positions. Eligibility is specifically targeted at diplomats and officials representing foreign governments or international organizations. Before applying, individuals should verify their eligibility category and ensure they meet all the required criteria.

Important: Ensure you review the eligibility guidelines specific to your diplomatic mission to avoid processing delays.

Issuance Process for Diplomats

The issuance process for the Courtesy Visa involves coordination with the Brazilian consulates abroad. Diplomats must lodge their application through the appropriate Brazilian consulate, which liaises with the Federal Police for approval. The process ensures that all diplomatic entries into Brazil are properly documented and authorized.

  1. Contact the Brazilian consulate in your country.

  2. Submit necessary documentation and evidence of your diplomatic status.

  3. The consulate coordinates with the Federal Police for approval.

  4. Receive your visa confirmation once approved.

Tip: Verify the current processing times with the Brazilian consulate as they may vary depending on location.

Covered Individuals and Missions The

Courtesy Visa (VICOR) covers individuals who are part of official government delegations, international organization representatives, and their immediate family members. This visa facilitates diplomatic missions, allowing for seamless entry and operations within Brazil for the duration of the mission. - Foreign diplomats and officials

  • Members of official delegations
  • Immediate family members of diplomats This visa type ensures that individuals engaged in diplomatic and official activities have the necessary legal permissions to fulfill their roles effectively in Brazil.

Application Through Embassy

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In Brazil, the Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is a special visa category facilitated through a ministry-to-ministry communication process. This visa primarily caters to individuals visiting Brazil on official missions, sponsored by foreign governments or international organizations. The initial application process for the Courtesy Visa involves coordination between the applicant’s home country embassy and the Brazilian authorities. The Federal Police (Polícia Federal) oversees the immigration registration once the visa holder arrives in Brazil.

Embassy Note Verbale Procedures

  1. The applicant's government or international organization initiates the application by preparing a Note Verbale, an official diplomatic communication.

  2. Submit the Note Verbale to the Brazilian embassy or consulate in the applicant's home country. This document should clearly state the purpose of the visit and the expected duration of stay.

  3. After receiving the Note Verbale, the Brazilian embassy will liaise with the relevant Brazilian authorities to process the application.

Warning: Ensure that the Note Verbale accurately reflects the details of the mission, as inconsistencies may delay processing.

Essential Supporting Documents -

A valid passport with at least six months of validity.

  • A recent passport-sized photograph.
  • Proof of official mission, such as an invitation letter from the Brazilian government or an international organization.
  • Any additional documents as requested by the Brazilian authorities based on the mission’s nature.

Important: All documents must be translated into Portuguese if not originally in this language.

Ministry Communication Protocols The Ministry of Foreign

Affairs in Brazil works closely with foreign embassies to facilitate the issuance of Courtesy Visas. Communication is typically conducted via formal channels, ensuring all diplomatic protocols are adhered to. Coordination between the foreign ministry and the Federal Police is required once the visa is approved to ensure seamless entry and registration in Brazil. This inter-ministry collaboration underscores the diplomatic nature of the Courtesy Visa.

Tip: Check with the Brazilian embassy in your country for any specific procedural updates that might affect the application process.

Conditions and Restrictions

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The Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is managed by the Federal Police in Brazil. It is important to understand the specific conditions associated with this visa type to ensure compliance during your stay.

Prohibited Private Employment Activities

Holders of the Courtesy Visa (VICOR) are not allowed to engage in private employment activities within Brazil. This visa is intended for individuals who are conducting official duties or representing their respective governments or organizations.

Warning: Engaging in unauthorized employment activities can result in visa cancellation and potential legal actions by the Federal Police.

Travel Limitations Within Brazil While the Courtesy Visa (VICOR) permits travel throughout

Brazil, holders must adhere to any travel guidelines that may be imposed by the Federal Police. These can include restrictions based on specific regions or events. - Check for regional travel advisories.

  • Ensure compliance with local regulations.
  • Report travel plans to the appropriate authorities if required.

Tip: Verify any current travel restrictions on the Processing Times guide to avoid potential issues during your stay.

Family Member Visa Conditions

Family members of Courtesy Visa holders may be eligible for dependent visas. However, they must apply separately and meet specific criteria set by the Brazilian authorities. - Dependent visas are not automatically granted.

  • Family members must prove their relationship to the visa holder.
  • Dependent visas do not allow private employment.

Important: Consult the Vitem Family visa page for detailed information on family visa applications.

Getting Accredited

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The Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is specifically designed for individuals visiting Brazil for government-related purposes. Managed by the Polícia Federal, this visa requires a series of steps to ensure proper accreditation and identification once you arrive in Brazil. Upon arrival, you must follow certain procedures to officially register and obtain necessary identification. These steps are required for maintaining compliance with Brazilian immigration laws while staying in the country.

Initial Arrival Registration Steps

  1. Report to the nearest Polícia Federal office within 30 days of arrival in Brazil.

  2. Present your passport and entry visa to initiate the registration process.

  3. Provide necessary documentation, including proof of your official capacity and purpose of visit.

Tip: Ensure you have all documents translated into Portuguese, as this can expedite the registration process.

Accreditation with Brazilian MFA

Accreditation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is a mandatory step following your initial registration. This process involves confirming your official status and purpose of visit.

  1. Submit a request for accreditation to the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

  2. Include a letter from your government's representative, detailing your role and visit objectives.

  3. Await confirmation and any further instructions from the MFA regarding your accreditation status.

Important: Accreditation must be completed promptly to avoid any delays in receiving your official identification.

Official ID Card Issuance Process

After successful accreditation, you will be issued an official identification card. This card serves as proof of your status and is required for various administrative tasks in Brazil.

  1. Go to the designated Polícia Federal office to apply for your ID card.

  2. Provide a recent passport-sized photograph and any additional documents requested by the authorities.

  3. Receive your official ID card, which should be kept with you at all times during your stay.

Warning: Failure to obtain your ID card can result in complications with legal status verification in Brazil.

Eligibility and Protocol

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The Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is specifically designed for individuals on diplomatic missions or official government-related activities in Brazil. Managed by the Polícia Federal, this visa facilitates the entry and stay of foreign dignitaries and officials. Understanding the eligibility criteria and proper protocol is essential to ensure a smooth application process. This section will guide you through the necessary steps to verify your diplomatic status, prepare the required documentation for your official mission, and submit a note verbale.

Diplomatic Status Verification

To apply for the Courtesy Visa, you must first confirm your status as a diplomat or an official on a government-sanctioned mission. This process involves verifying your credentials with the relevant Brazilian authorities. - Proof of diplomatic status issued by your home country.

  • Official documentation from a recognized international organization, if applicable.
  • A valid diplomatic passport or equivalent travel document.

Tip: Ensure all documents are translated into Portuguese by a certified translator if they are not in a language recognized by Brazilian authorities.

Official Mission Documentation

You must provide evidence of your official mission or assignment in Brazil. This documentation should clearly outline the purpose and duration of your stay. - A letter of assignment from your government or organization.

  • Details of the mission, including objectives and expected outcomes.
  • Contact information of the host organization or Brazilian counterpart.

Important: Your mission documentation must be current and align with the dates of your intended stay in Brazil.

Note Verbale Submission Guidelines

The submission of a note verbale is a critical component of the Courtesy Visa application. This official diplomatic communication must be presented through the appropriate channels.

  1. Draft a note verbale outlining the purpose of your visit and confirming your official status.

  2. Submit the note through your country's diplomatic mission or consulate to the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

  3. Ensure the note is submitted well in advance of your travel to allow for processing.

Warning: Failure to submit a properly formatted note verbale can delay your visa application. Verify requirements with the Brazilian authorities.

When to Get Help

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In Brazil, the Courtesy Visa (VICOR) is managed by the Polícia Federal, which handles immigration processes within the country. This visa is distinct from others as it caters to specific diplomatic and official missions. When transitioning from a Courtesy Visa to another status, such as a Vitem Work or Vitem Student, you should consult with the Polícia Federal to understand the specific requirements and timelines. Different visas have unique eligibility criteria and supporting documents. Verify the latest processing times with the Polícia Federal, as they can change based on your visa category. Family dependents of Courtesy Visa holders may require separate visas, such as the Vitem Family, to legally stay in Brazil. Ensuring that all family members have the proper documentation is key. Dependent visas may have different processing times and requirements. Always confirm details with the local authorities. At the conclusion of your official mission in Brazil, it's important to complete all exit procedures with the Polícia Federal. This includes confirming the return of any issued documentation and visas.

Next steps

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Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.

Sources

Last reviewed: 2026-03-04

Important

VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.

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