Brazil will begin offering electronic visas to Chinese citizens, allowing nationals from Mainland China, as well as the Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions, to apply for the document digitally for tourism or business travel. The measure will facilitate stays of up to 90 days and also covers participation in trade fairs, events and short-term technical activities in the country.

Although it has not yet been officially announced by the Brazilian government, the application system is already available, according to verification by Fragomen, an immigration-specialised firm. The initiative comes at a time of closer ties between the two countries, following China's announcement of visa exemption for Brazilian citizens travelling for tourism, business, transit or family visits for up to 30 days, valid until 31 December 2026.

It is anticipated that the adoption of electronic visas for Chinese citizens will increase the flow of entrepreneurs, professionals and investors between the two countries, further strengthening the trade relationship between Brazil and China, one of the country's main economic partners.

(Source: Diário do Turismo, on 13 March)