Brazil travel advice

Risk level

Safety and security

Border areas

Criminal activity related to drug trafficking and arms smuggling poses a threat to your personal security.

If you choose to travel near border areas

• exercise caution at all times
• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities and security forces

Crime

Crime rates are high throughout the country, particularly in:

• Belém
• Fortaleza
• Manaus
• Recife
• Rio de Janeiro
• Salvador
• São Paulo

Tourists are mostly affected by theft, but incidents of violent crime also occur.

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs, including:

• armed robberies
• carjackings
• burglaries
• sexual assaults

Violent crime, often involving weapons, is common. Incidents of mass shootings occur, often resulting in casualties. Although tourists are rarely involved, you could be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Violent crime often occurs in the following areas:

• Rio de Janeiro:
• Cidade de Deus to Gardênia Azul and surrounding area
• Complexo da Maré
• Complexo da Penha
• Complexo do Alemão
• Complexo do Turano
• Jacarezinho
• Morro do Borel to Morro do Andaraí and surrounding area
• Morro do Juramento and surrounding area
• Morro do Urubu and surrounding area
• Vila Kennedy to Vila Aliança and surrounding area

• São Paulo:
• around São Paulo Cathedral
• Avenida Paulista
• historical downtown area
• Municipal Market
• Pinacoteca (Pina) do Estado de São Paulo
• Princess Isabel Square
• Luz station

• Satellite cities of Brasília:
• Ceilândia
• Estrutural
• Paranoá
• Santa Maria
• São Sebastião

If you decide to travel to these areas:

• always be aware of your surroundings
• avoid going out after dark
• travel in groups
• avoid isolated areas
• do not resist an attack

Theft

Robberies occur regularly and often involve weapons such as guns and knives. Thieves generally target people who appear wealthy, such as those using cell phones and laptops.

Robberies can occur anywhere, including in all touristic areas in Rio de Janiero (such as Lapa, Santa Teresa and Copacabana beach). Exercise caution in crowded areas.

Drive-by snatching by armed thieves on motorcycles occurs regularly, particularly in São Paulo and Porto Alegre.

• Always keep car doors and windows closed and locked
• If you feel threatened while driving, do not stop

Mass robberies “arrastões” involve a group of criminals that swarm public places and snatch valuable items such as cash, jewellery and cell phones. This type of crime can occur day and night at:

• beaches
• traffic jams
• shopping centres
• restaurants

Criminals sometimes attempt to rob you by pretending to sell you something or by offering to help if you appear lost. If you’re lost, go into a nearby business or hotel to ask for directions.

Victims have been seriously injured or killed when resisting perpetrators, who were armed or under the influence of drugs.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse and cell phone snatching, and car theft, is common in Brazil’s large cities. This includes all touristic areas of Rio de Janiero and São Paulo. Exercise caution in crowded areas.

Theft commonly occurs at or near:

• beaches
• outdoor markets
• hotels
• bars and nightclubs
• airports and bus stations
• parking lots

Petty crime increases around big events and festivities, such as:

• parades and street festivals
• large-scale sporting events
• international conferences
• Carnival
• Christmas

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas
• do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• do not show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
• avoid using your cell phone in public
• do not resist an attack

Spiked food and drinks

Spiked food and drink incidents are increasing in Brazil, particularly in Rio de Janeiro.

Incidents of spiked food and drinks to force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs have been reported, including on beaches in Rio de Janeiro and crowded restaurants in São Paulo.

The use of drugs to facilitate sexual assault and robbery against foreigners has also been reported. Assaults frequently occur in unofficial taxis.

Incidents are most likely to occur:

• in bars and restaurants
• in hotels
• in nightclubs
• at public beaches

While you’re in Brazil:

• be wary of accepting items from new acquaintances
• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• order drinks in sealed bottles or cans instead of in plastic cups

Adulterated alcohol

People have died in Brazil after drinking methanol-adulterated alcohol. Poisoning incidents have been reported in various locations across the states of São Paulo and Pernambuco, and in Brasília. Adulterated drinks include gin, whiskey and vodka sold in bars and liquor stores.

Brazil’s Ministry of Health advises not to consume these beverages until further notice and to seek medical assistance immediately if you begin to feel sick within 12 to 24 hours after consuming an alcoholic beverage.

Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings occur in the Rio de Janeiro Metropolitan Region.

Criminals may kidnap a victim for a few hours and force them to withdraw funds from an ATM or make bank transfers using their mobile applications in exchange for their release. Thieves may put drugs into food and drinks, temporarily incapacitating victims, who become quickly disoriented and are vulnerable to kidnapping.

• Always exercise caution
• Only use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing applications
• Do not accept rides from new acquaintances or strangers
• Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as using a cell phone, headphones or wearing jewelry
• Never leave food or drinks unattended
• Avoid isolates areas, especially alone or at night

Carjackings

Carjackings are common in cities, especially at night in remote areas. They often occur at intersections and in tunnels. Perpetrators usually carry weapons.

• Keep doors and windows closed and locked at all times
• Pay attention to your surroundings while waiting at traffic lights
• Avoid poorly lit areas
• Avoid stopping on the side of roads
• Be wary of strangers offering to help you

Women’s safety

Sexual assault has been committed, including against foreign women.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.

• Avoid walking alone at night, including on public beaches
• Keep your hotel doors and windows closed and locked
• Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers

If you’re the victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the police and the nearest Government of Canada office.

Advice for women travellers

Home invasions

Home invasions by armed gangs occur, especially in December and January, when many people leave for summer or Christmas holidays. Affluent neighbourhoods and foreigners’ homes have been targeted by criminals due to perceived wealth.

Be aware that police response often takes time.

Organized crime

Organized crime associated with international drug trafficking occurs in Brazil, as it is situated along transit routes. This is most common in the north and northeastern regions.

Vulnerable neighbourhoods

Vulnerable neighbourhoods, commonly referred to as “favelas” or “comunidades”, are characterized by informal housing developments, crowded quarters, poorer conditions, and/or irregular construction.

Gang-related violence and organized crime is prevalent in these areas. Access and assistance from emergency services is very limited.

• Avoid renting accommodations in vulnerable neighbourhoods, and travelling to these areas, even on a guided tour
• Ensure your GPS or navigation application does not direct you through a favela, as tourists have been shot after accidentally entering one

Police operations

Armed clashes and shootouts between security forces and alleged criminals regularly occur in vulnerable neighbourhoods. Police operations have led to retaliation by criminal gangs. Vulnerable neighbourhoods are located across major cities. As a result, there is risk of violence spilling over to neighbouring areas, including affluent neighbourhoods and tourist destinations. There have been casualties as a result of stray bullets in and near vulnerable neighbourhoods.

Scams

Common tourist scams include:

• carrying unsuspected drug packages
• online romance scams

Brazil is a drug trafficking hub. An increasing number of travellers have fallen victim to scams in which illegal drugs are hidden inside luggage that an acquaintance asked them to take with them when departing Brazil. Websites targeting senior citizens are reportedly a source of such scams.

Romance scams on dating sites or through social media have occurred. Victims of these scams have been:

• tricked into carrying unsuspected drug packages
• kidnapped
• forced to transfer and withdraw money

Before travelling to Brazil to visit someone you met online:

• be wary of individuals who ask you to carry a package from Brazil on their behalf
• beware of people who show a keen interest in you online

Warning to Canadian seniors targeted by international drug smuggling scams

Fraud

Credit card, debit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently. Criminals have used proximity card readers to charge the cards of unsuspecting persons. Vendors have also pretended card readers weren’t working or didn’t have signal to charge the client multiple times.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
• consider disabling the tap function of your card

Cybercrime

Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion occur in Brazil. Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information.

• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media
• Use your own USB adaptor or carry an extra battery pack
• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks
• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Brazilian law doesn't criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons in Brazil have been victims of violence based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. Violent incidents include physical assault resulting in severe injury.

Public displays of affection are more socially acceptable in larger cities, but they are not generally acceptable in most of the country.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Soccer matches and sports events

Sports events sometimes lead to rowdy behaviour and violent incidents.

• Avoid wearing team colours during soccer game days
• Be vigilant if you attend soccer matches and sports rallies
• Leave as soon as possible if violence breaks out

Swimming

Some beaches are unsupervised. Coastal waters can be dangerous as riptides are common. Public beaches in major cities are often polluted and unfit for swimming.

• Respect the areas reserved for swimming
• Always respect warning flags advising of dangerous conditions
• Be wary of sharks, especially in Brazil’s northeast near Recife
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Adventure travel

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous in remote areas as trails may become impassable due to flash floods.

Mobile phone coverage may be limited in remote areas.

Extreme sports, such as skydiving and bungee jumping, are dangerous and tour operators may not meet Canadian safety standards. Certain adventure activities, such as hot air ballooning, are both dangerous and illegal.

If you intend to participate in adventure travel activities:

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member if hiking alone
• stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
• obtain detailed information on your activity and the environment in which you will be setting out
• refrain from using equipment if you are unsure of its condition or safety

Useful links

• Adventure travel health and safety
• Visit Brazil – Tourism Committee of Brazil

Power outages

Power outages occur regularly in major cities. Transport and business services can be disrupted. Most large hotels are equipped with a generator.

Roads

Road safety

Fatal accidents are frequent.

Roadside assistance is not widely available. If you need it, call your vehicle insurance provider, or choose a commercial service available in your area.

Road conditions

Road conditions are generally good in large cities and on federal highways, especially those linking large cities. Regional highways are generally adequate but state and municipal roads in rural areas are often poorly maintained.

Driving can also be dangerous due to:

• lack of traffic signs
• potholes
• unpaved roads
• insufficient lighting
•  landslides

Driving habits

Drivers often disregard traffic laws, and Brazilian police do not strictly enforce them.

Drivers often speed and they can be aggressive and reckless. Motorcyclists often ride between lanes. Be careful when crossing the street, as drivers do not always give pedestrians the right of way.

Drinking and driving is common.

At night and in large cities, drivers commonly treat red lights as stop signs to protect against hold-ups at intersections.

If you choose to drive in Brazil:

• always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• be careful with motorcycles when changing lanes
• if you feel threatened, do not stop
• if you are in a traffic accident, call the police immediately
• never confront the driver of another vehicle

Public transportation

Public transportation can be very crowded at peak transit times, and pickpocketing is common at bus and subway stations. Be extremely cautious when using public transportation at night.

Subway

Petty theft is common in the subway system, especially when crowded.

There are subway cars reserved for women and children in Rio de Janeiro and Brasília.

Buses and coaches

There have been reports of theft and violence on city buses in Rio de Janeiro and near vulnerable neighbourhoods across the country, especially during rush hour.

Inter-city buses are generally reliable. Ensure that you use a reputable company before you book your travel.

Bus accidents occur regularly.

Major bus services charge fixed, pre-paid rates.

Do not use public vans.

Taxis

Assaults, thefts, and scams often occur in unofficial taxis.

Registered taxis are identifiable and have a taxi meter to determine the legal fare.

In Brasília, most registered taxis are white with a green sign on the doors. In Rio de Janeiro, most registered taxis are yellow with a blue stripe and have a company’s name labelled near the blue stripe at the back. Malls and the airport often have their own registered taxis.

• Only use officially marked taxis
• Arrange your pickup with your hotel before arrival when travelling by air, or use authorized taxis at the airport
• Avoid paying with cards

Ride-sharing applications

Ride-sharing applications are available in Brazil. If you use one, confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car.

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robberies against ships occur in coastal waters in the north-east. Pirates have also attacked lodges along the Amazon River. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy map – International Maritime Bureau Piracy Reporting Centre

Air travel

We don’t make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Flying while in other countries

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Brazilian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Brazil.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required

If you are applying for a visa for a minor, contact the nearest Brazilian government office for guidance on how to submit this application.

Length of stay

If you intend to stay more than 90 days, you must obtain an extension from the Federal Police before your authorized stay expires. You may be required to authenticate your documents.

Useful links

• Brazil eVisa – VFS Global
• Extended stay in Brazil – Government of Brazil (Portuguese only)
• Immigration public services – Government of Brazil
• Authentication of documents

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay

Dual citizenship

If you’re both a Canadian and a Brazilian citizen, you must enter and exit Brazil using your Brazilian passport.

Children and travel

Brazil has strict requirements for the exit of its citizens under the age of 18, including those with dual citizenship.

A travel authorization is mandatory for all Brazilian children leaving Brazil unaccompanied, with one parent, or with a third party.

The parent or legal guardian authorizing the trip must present the following documents:

• an original identification document of the person authorizing the trip
• an original or photocopy of the minor’s Brazilian or foreign passport, which will be used for the trip
• an original or certified photocopy of the minor’s Brazilian birth certificate

Useful links

• Travel authorization for Brazilian minors – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Children and travel

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is usually only available in urban areas. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

You can access free health care at public hospitals and clinics. You will likely experience overcrowding, understaffing, longer wait times and medication shortages. Most doctors don't speak English. Public hospitals generally don't expect immediate cash payment.

Private hospitals and clinics located in cities are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities. Some doctors speak English. Private hospitals provide expensive medical care, require proof of insurance, and may often request immediate cash payment.

Some public medical facilities in the state of Rio de Janeiro provide limited services due to a lack of funding. Private hospitals are fully operational.

Emergency services can be slow outside of major cities.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive, and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medical tourism

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially on:

• the health and financial risks
• the medical facility where the procedure will be performed
• language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your medical care and conditions
• travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical procedure you will be undergoing

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in their coverage offered abroad.

• Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Brazilian health authorities
• Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure

Useful links

• Travelling outside Canada to receive medical care
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Brazil.

If you take prescription medications, you're responsible for determining their legality in Brazil.

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

Travelling with medication

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Brazil are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Brazil to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Brazilian authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines, even if unknowingly carrying drugs.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags, or suitcases

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Child sex tourism

Brazil is actively seeking to prevent child sex tourism. Several tourists have been convicted of offences relating to the exploitation of minors.

The legal age of sexual consent in Brazil is 18. Prison sentences are severe.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Brazil.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Brazil, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

Driving

Brazil has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. If the police suspect you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver’s licence on the spot. If convicted, you can expect heavy fines and jail sentences.

Brazilian police may conduct periodic controls during the day and night, often to check for drunk driving. If you approach a police control, slow down and cooperate with the officers.

You can drive in Brazil with a valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to 180 days.

You should carry an international driving permit. This official Portuguese translation of your Canadian driver’s licence will help when dealing with local authorities.

International driving permit

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your identification at any time.

• Always carry valid identification or a photocopy of it
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your identification and travel documents

Imports and exports

There are very strict rules regarding the importation and exportation of:

• antiquities
• business and communication equipment
• firearms
• medications
• tropical plants
• wildlife

Brazil’s Ministry of Health provides information about food items that you can and cannot bring to Brazil.

Exporting to Brazil – Government of Brazil

Smoking and vaping

Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all enclosed public spaces.

It’s illegal to bring these items into Brazil:

• electronic cigarettes
• vaping devices
• vaping solutions

If you have them in your possession upon arrival, customs officials could confiscate them, and you could receive a fine.

Electronic cigarette regulations – National Health Regulatory Agency (Portuguese only)

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Brazil.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Brazil, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Brazilian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Brazil to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Money

The currency of Brazil is the Brazilian real (BRL).

Canadian bank cards usually work in ATMs.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and stores, but less so in rural or informal markets.

ATMs are scarcely available in rural areas.

Carry cash for small transactions and when visiting remote areas.

It’s difficult to exchange Canadian dollars in Brazil.

Natural disasters and climate

Wildfires

Wildfires are common during the dry season, between May and September, particularly in:

• Amazonas
• Brasília
• Cerrado region
• Pantanal region

Heavy smoke may deteriorate the air quality in areas near active fires.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years. El Niño generally generates droughts and heavy rainfalls for 6 to 9 months, which could cause flooding, landslides, and mudslides, and severely disrupt travel. Extreme droughts and heavy rains could limit access to food, drinking water, hygiene products, and medication. Severe weather could occur, such as:

• below-average rainfall and droughts in the north and northeast
• excessive rains in the south and southeast
• above-average temperatures in all regions

Stay informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels, and plan accordingly. Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans.

Learn about El Niño

Rainy seasons

The rainy seasons extend from:

• January to July in the north
• October to April in the south and southeast
• April to July in the northeast

Flash floods can occur outside of the rainy season.

They can hamper overland travel, especially in rural areas. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. Travel conditions on mountain roads and on highways leading to beaches can be dangerous. Seasonal flooding can also reduce the provision of essential services. Power outages are frequent during the rainy season.

• Avoid the affected areas
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Weather warnings – National Institute of Meteorology (Portuguese only)
• Severe storms outside Canada

Landslides

Landslides are becoming more common in Brazil and are the result of heavy rainfall.

Heat and humidity

Humidity and heat may be most severe during the hot season, from December to March.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Dry season and droughts

Brasília and the country's interior experience extreme dry periods between May and October. Humidity levels can drop below 10% and heat levels rise significantly.

Western Brazil can experience periods of prolonged drought, which can lead to water shortages.

Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.