Country Profile

Brazil, fifth most populous country in the world, got freedom from the rein of portugal in 1822. Endowed with natural resources and a large pool of labor force, brazil has undergone into a transformation to become a leading market player. The brazilian federation is based on the federal republic political framework, encompassing the three autonomous political entities - the state, the municipalities and the federal district. Brazil's economy outweighs other south american countries, in which textile, shoes, chemicals, cement, tin, steel, aircraft, mining, agriculture and service sector play a crucial role. Brazil earn $159.2 billion by exporting its products to usa, china, argentina and germany. The country's GDP is recorded at $1.838 trillion.

Snapshot

Economic Overview

• Largest economy in Latin America.
• Thriving and diversified industrial sector.
• Well-developed agricultural, mining, manufacturing, and service sectors.
• Floating exchange rate, inflation-targeting regime, tight fiscal policy.

International Trade
Major Export Items
Transport Equipment, Iron Ore, Soybeans, Footwear, Coffee, Autos, Orange Juice, Motor Vehicle Parts

Main Destinations of Exports
US, Argentina, Netherlands, China, Germany, Mexico

Major Import Items
Machinery, Electrical And Transport Equipment, Chemical Products, Crude Oil, Capital Goods, Foodstuffs, Coal

Main Origins of Imports
US, Argentina, Germany, China, Nigeria, Japan

Contacts of Trade Ministries/ Associations

Business Visa Rules
To obtain business visa to Brazil, the following documents are required:

• Valid/signed passport (valid 6 months; with at least one blank visa page).
• 2 Visa application forms duly filled and signed. Application forms must be photocopied on one sheet of paper, front and back (not upside down).
• 2 Passport size photographs
• Copy of driving license (enlarge it for clarity).
• Notarized business cover letter addressed to the Brazilian Consulate explaining clearly the purpose of the trip, and the nature of duties to be performed, declaring that "technical support" will not be performed in Brazil, and guaranteeing financial support for the applicant while in Brazil, and return transportation. If business in Brazil is not of a technical nature, specifically state it on the business letter.
• Invitation from an organization in Brazil is required. (for Chicago Jurisdiction only)
• Proof of departure is required, computer generated flight itinerary from the travel agent.
• Complete the Global Reservation Form. Consular fees are non-refundable. If visa is rejected and resubmitted, new consular fees will apply. Visas are usually processed in 5 working days.
• Visa Validity - Business visas are based on consul's soledecision. The type 2 visa can be issued up to 5 years and allowed to stay for 90 days. The technical type-5 visa is to be used within 30 days.
• Visas are usually processed in five to seven business days.

Business Hours
Official Business Hourss are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Higher ranking individuals usually begin work later in the morning and end up later in the evening.

Public holidays