Banking and Currency
The currency in Brazil is known as the real (pronounced "hey-al") and is marked by the R$ sign. The country does not accept other types of currency, so it's important to exchange money or take out local cash when visiting. There are six banknotes in Brazil, ranging from R$2 to R$100. There are also six coins, including a R$1 coin.
Currency exchange facilities are available in most banks, hotels and airports and operate normal business hours. Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops, the most widely used being Mastercard, Visa and American Express.
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Climate
Brazil has climates that suit all tastes, thanks to its great territorial extension, combined with factors such as altitude, pressure and ocean proximity. The average annual temperature is 28° C in the North and 20° C in the South of the country.
The Brazilian winter happens between June and September and in some cities of the South and Southeast, temperatures reach less than 0° C, with frost and snow. In the summer, you can enjoy a 40° C heat in cities such as Rio de Janeiro. Summer in Brazil is the best time to go to the beach, drink coconut water, plunge into the sea and sunbathe.
Regardless of the season, it’s always a good idea to pack a coat and pants, because the weather can change suddenly in some locations, especially in mountain and coastal regions.
Electricity
In Santos electrical current is 220V. If your appliances are 110V, check if there is a 110/220V switch. If not, you will need a voltage converter. Universal outlets for 220V or 110V shavers are usually found in leading hotels.
Visa
Visas required to enter Brazil are issued by the Brazilian consulates abroad.Brazil adopts a policy of reciprocity regarding visas. This means that nationals of countries that require visas for Brazilian citizens will need a visa to travel to Brazil. According to the Brazilian law, Brazil must agree, on a reciprocal basis, to offer visa waiver to nationals of another country. Brazil has signed visa exemption agreements with about 90 countries. Some attendees may need to apply for and obtain a travel visa to enter the Brazil
Citizens from Mercosur member counties are not required to present visa, only the passport or a valid identification document.
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United States, Australia, Canada, and Japan citizens will be no longer needing a visa to travel to Brazil for leisure and business. The exemption will take effect on June 17th, 2019.
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Citizens from the European Union and many other countries are also not required to issue a visa, they are only required to present a passport. To find out if you are required to travel with a visa, please visit the Ministry of External Relations Immigration Division website. On the site, you can find forms and general information on obtaining a travel visa: (View More)
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Learn more details about the documents required and proceedings to obtain a visa consulting the Brazilian embassy or consulate in your country.
Check the list of Brazilian consulates abroad as well as the visa regulation for foreigners entering Brazil.
Note – it is strongly recommended that Brazilian visa applications are lodged at least two months prior to departure from your point of origin. This may not be organised upon arrival.
Health
Public health services in Brazil are free for foreign tourists. So, if you are in an accident or present any health problems, just call the Mobile Emergency Service (Samu) dialing 192 on the phone. The call is free.
In any case a travel-insurance policy to cover theft, loss and medical problems is recommended for anyone visiting Brazil.
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To enter Brazil, it is not mandatory to vaccinate against any type of illness. If you have any doubts, check the website of the Brazilian Ministry of Health (View More).
Emergency Numbers
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190 - Policia (Police)
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192 - Ambulancia (Ambulance)
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193 - Bombeiros (Fire Department)
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Civil Defense - 199
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Civil Police - 197
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State Highway Police - 198
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Municipal Department of Tourism: +55 (13) 3201-8000
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Municipal Department of Security: +55 (13) 3226-3341
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