Brazil launches “Open Doors 2026”: visa-free pilot for eight new countries
LATAM adds 9 % more domestic flights in Brazil for H1 2026
LATAM becomes first Latin-American carrier to earn Skytrax 4-Star rating
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Brazil’s visa shake-up draws mixed reaction as US travellers remain outside exemption list
A detailed analysis in TheStreet highlights that Brazil’s new visa-waiver pilot benefits eight countries but keeps the US, Canada and Australia on the paid e-Visa list, creating operational headaches for firms with mixed-nationality teams. Industry bodies warn the dual system could dent high-value US visitor numbers until reciprocity talks resume.
Brazil grants visa-free entry to eight nations—but keeps e-visa for Americans
Brazil removed visitor-visa requirements for citizens of eight countries—including China, France and Ireland—effective 4 March 2026, offering 30-day stays extendable to 90 days. The waiver supports tourism and business travel but pointedly excludes Americans, who still need an e-visa, so mobility teams must manage mixed rules across nationalities.
Portugal ends postal visa submissions, forcing Brazilians to apply in-person
From 17 April 2026, Brazilians will no longer be able to mail visa applications to Portugal. All Schengen and national visa requests must be filed in person at VFS Global centres or consulates, adding travel and accommodation costs for applicants who live far from major cities. Mobility planners should expect longer lead-times and stricter document checks.
Middle-East airspace crisis hits Brazil: Qatar, American and United cancel São Paulo services
On 4 March, Qatar Airways, American Airlines and United Airlines cancelled four long-haul flights involving São Paulo/Guarulhos because Gulf airspace closures forced worldwide rerouting. The cuts create bottlenecks for business and leisure travellers, highlighting the need for contingency planning, visa flexibility and real-time itinerary monitoring.
Brazilian Senate ratifies EU-Mercosur trade pact, paving way for smoother corporate mobility
Brazil’s Senate ratified the EU-Mercosur trade agreement on 4 March 2026, clearing the last legislative hurdle in Brasília. Beyond tariff cuts, the pact streamlines short-term business travel and service delivery between Brazil and the EU, so companies should prepare for higher assignment volumes and new compliance procedures once provisional application begins.