- The best travel insurances for Brazil
- Current Travel Safety in Brazil
- Travel Insurance Requirements for a Visa to Brazil
- Why take out travel insurance for Brazil?
- The coverage included in travel insurance for Brazil
- What is the cost of travel insurance for Brazil?
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Brazil
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Brazil?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Brazil: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Brazil covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage during your stay.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises increased caution in Brazil due to crime in certain areas.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens, but it is highly recommended for medical emergencies.
4. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is expensive; a hospital night can cost foreign visitors over $1,000.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Brazil typically costs between $30 and $60.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers theft of personal belongings, a common risk in tourist areas.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Brazil.
The best travel insurances for Brazil
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.0M | Our top pick for Brazil trips. - high medical ceiling - flexible repatriation - modern, understandable policy |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.0M | Best for reliable all-round protection. - 24/7 support - trip cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $500k | Suitable for standard tourism needs in Brazil. - emergency medical included - quick assistance - affordable |
| Travel Pass Monde | $700k | Balanced choice for comprehensive long stays. - worldwide coverage - hospital fees included - evacuation assistance |
| Globe Partner | $300k | Good for basic health and emergency cover. - covers urgent healthcare - repatriation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | $500k | Affordable for shorter visits or lower risks. - medical expenses reimbursed - fast claims process - capped benefits |
- high medical ceiling
- flexible repatriation
- modern, understandable policy
- 24/7 support
- trip cancellation cover
- no deductible
- emergency medical included
- quick assistance
- affordable
- worldwide coverage
- hospital fees included
- evacuation assistance
- covers urgent healthcare
- repatriation
- civil liability
- medical expenses reimbursed
- fast claims process
- capped benefits
Current Travel Safety in Brazil
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Brazil due to ongoing security concerns and recent adjustments to entry requirements for US citizens.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: violent crime, including robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping, is a persistent threat in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Organized crime and incidents such as sedative-assisted robberies remain frequent, particularly in tourist zones and at night.
- Health risks: diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and traveler’s diarrhea are prevalent, and yellow fever vaccination is recommended. Access to reliable medical care can be limited outside large urban centers, making comprehensive health coverage essential.
- Geographic constraints: travel within 100 miles of land borders, except for Foz do Iguacu and Pantanal National Parks, is strongly discouraged due to cross-border crime and trafficking. Entering informal housing areas (favelas), even on guided tours, exposes visitors to significant personal risks and is not recommended.
- Urban and legal considerations: pickpocketing, taxi scams, and credit card fraud occur in airports and tourist sites. US government employees are prohibited from using municipal buses because of frequent robberies and assaults.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Brazil.
Travel Insurance Requirements for a Visa to Brazil
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens applying for a visa to visit Brazil.
While you do not need to present proof of insurance for your visa application, it is still highly recommended due to the variable quality of medical care in Brazil and the high cost of medical emergencies, particularly for travelers outside major cities.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Brazil. This is mainly due to the risk of crime, health concerns, and the potential cost of repatriation in case of serious incident.
Why take out travel insurance for Brazil?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Brazil.
In Brazil, public hospitals are often overcrowded and may lack modern equipment, especially outside major cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. Foreign travelers are usually referred to private clinics such as Hospital Sírio-Libanês in São Paulo or Copa Star in Rio de Janeiro, where costs can be very high and payment is required in advance.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transportation, and emergency repatriation to the US in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Brazil.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Hospital Sírio-Libanês | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 18,000 BRL (about $3,500 USD) | Up to 100% capped by policy |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 7,000 BRL (about $1,350 USD) | Up to 100% capped by policy |
| I need to be repatriated | 120,000 BRL (about $23,000 USD) | Usually 100% within limits |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 32,000 BRL (about $6,100 USD) | Up to 100% capped by policy |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
The coverage included in travel insurance for Brazil
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers doctor or hospital fees, exams, and treatments in the event of accident, illness, or emergency. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000 per person for medical expenses in Brazil. |
| 🚑 Emergency medical evacuation & repatriation | Arranges and pays for your transfer to another hospital or back to the US if you have a serious health issue. Choose a policy covering at least $100,000 for evacuation and repatriation. |
| 💊 Prescription medications | Covers medications prescribed by a doctor following an illness or injury. Minimum recommended coverage: $1,000 for medications. |
| 🛏️ Hospitalization | Pays for your hospital stay, surgery, and related care. A minimum reimbursement limit of $50,000 per person is recommended. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses costs if you must cancel, interrupt, or delay your trip due to illness, accident, or other covered reason. A limit equal to the total cost of your trip, ideally at least $2,000, is recommended. |
| 🧳 Baggage and personal belongings | Covers loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and valuables. Recommended limit: $1,500 per trip. |
| ⏱️ Travel delay | Compensates expenses if your trip is delayed for a covered reason (for example: extra accommodation, meals). A recommended daily limit of $150 with an overall maximum of $1,000. |
| 🚨 Personal liability | Protects against costs if you accidentally cause property damage or injury to others. Limits should be at least $100,000. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000 per person for medical expenses in Brazil.
Choose a policy covering at least $100,000 for evacuation and repatriation.
Minimum recommended coverage: $1,000 for medications.
A minimum reimbursement limit of $50,000 per person is recommended.
A limit equal to the total cost of your trip, ideally at least $2,000, is recommended.
Recommended limit: $1,500 per trip.
A recommended daily limit of $150 with an overall maximum of $1,000.
Limits should be at least $100,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers limited protection, with low limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a high-quality insurance with full coverage. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and purchase online for instant certification.
What is the cost of travel insurance for Brazil?
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $32 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $56 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $79 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $185 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance policy will vary based on several key factors. Be sure to consider your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the level of coverage, and optional benefits like trip cancellation. Understanding how these elements affect the cost is crucial for selecting the right plan for your journey.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Brazil
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Brazil while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🛡️ Level of coverage | Adequate medical and repatriation coverage is important in Brazil, where healthcare quality varies. | Choose only necessary coverage such as medical and baggage to avoid excess cost for unneeded options. |
| 👥 Traveler’s age | Age significantly affects pricing for US citizens, especially for seniors. | Insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, making it especially attractive for seniors. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Longer stays in Brazil mean higher insurance costs. | Buy a policy that exactly matches your dates instead of rounded durations. Consider single-trip instead of annual. |
| 🏞️ Destination regions | Rural areas in Brazil may have higher risks and limited care, increasing costs. | Inform the insurer if you’ll avoid risky zones to exclude unnecessary risk surcharges for higher-risk regions. |
| 🦟 Epidemic coverage | Dengue and Zika are present in Brazil, so coverage for tropical diseases may be relevant. | Compare tropical disease coverage among plans instead of defaulting to the most expensive comprehensive policy. |
| 🎒 Type of activities | Risky sports or adventure tourism can increase rates. | Only add sports coverage for specific activities you intend to do, rather than general adventure cover. |
| 👨👩👧 Family or group policy | Group policies can offer savings for families or friends traveling together. | Select a group or family plan for discounted rates and simplified administration, especially for shared itineraries. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Brazil?
It’s completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage, such as credit card insurance or your private health plan, can protect you during a trip to Brazil. Unfortunately, most of these options are limited or insufficient. For US travelers, only travel insurance meets Brazilian embassy requirements for a visa.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Brazil? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No overseas coverage for health costs or hospitalization | Travel insurance covers up to $500,000 for medical care and evacuation |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies, with $50,000–$100,000 limit, no repatriation and many exclusions | Travel insurance includes up to $500,000 and repatriation |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Amex Green) | Yes, partly | Emergency care up to $2,500–$5,000, no trip cancellation or baggage loss | Travel insurance includes $500,000+ and full trip cancellation support |
| Premium credit card (Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $100,000, trip delay/loss below $1,000 | Travel insurance offers up to $500,000 with broader benefits |
Example
In Rio de Janeiro, Mark suffered a severe surfing injury requiring emergency surgery. The private hospital bill hit $25,000. His US health insurance deemed it 'out-of-network,' covering nothing. His Chase Sapphire Reserve card's travel insurance had a $2,500 limit, leaving him with a shocking $22,500 debt for a day at the beach.
Expert advice
Always check your existing insurance for terms, exclusions, and limits. Critical situations, like trip interruption for a relative's illness, may not be covered. Read the fine print carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Brazil?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa or e-visa to travel to Brazil for both tourism and business purposes. This requirement is effective from April 10, 2025. You can apply online through the official Brazilian government visa website. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your planned departure date.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Brazil?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best offers. Next, carefully check the coverages and exclusions, paying attention to the specific risks and requirements for Brazil. Then, buy your selected policy online. You will receive your insurance certificate by email instantly for your travels.
What health risks should I consider when traveling to Brazil?
Brazil has several health concerns, including dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and travelers' diarrhea, especially outside large cities. Mosquito-borne diseases are a significant risk in many regions. It's recommended to use insect repellent and take preventive measures. Travel insurance should always include medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation coverage.
Are private medical facilities available to foreigners in Brazil?
Private hospitals and clinics are available in major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, and they generally offer higher-quality care than public hospitals. However, treatment is expensive and must usually be paid for up front if you do not have insurance. Travel insurance reimburses these costs, so always keep documentation.
Can travel insurance help if my flight or baggage is delayed in Brazil?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance typically covers trip delays, baggage delays, or loss. For example, if your luggage is delayed or lost by the airline, your policy may reimburse essential purchases such as clothing or toiletries. Check your policy for details on reimbursement limits and eligible reasons for delay.
Do I need a visa to travel to Brazil?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa or e-visa to travel to Brazil for both tourism and business purposes. This requirement is effective from April 10, 2025. You can apply online through the official Brazilian government visa website. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your planned departure date.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Brazil?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best offers. Next, carefully check the coverages and exclusions, paying attention to the specific risks and requirements for Brazil. Then, buy your selected policy online. You will receive your insurance certificate by email instantly for your travels.
What health risks should I consider when traveling to Brazil?
Brazil has several health concerns, including dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and travelers' diarrhea, especially outside large cities. Mosquito-borne diseases are a significant risk in many regions. It's recommended to use insect repellent and take preventive measures. Travel insurance should always include medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation coverage.
Are private medical facilities available to foreigners in Brazil?
Private hospitals and clinics are available in major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, and they generally offer higher-quality care than public hospitals. However, treatment is expensive and must usually be paid for up front if you do not have insurance. Travel insurance reimburses these costs, so always keep documentation.
Can travel insurance help if my flight or baggage is delayed in Brazil?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance typically covers trip delays, baggage delays, or loss. For example, if your luggage is delayed or lost by the airline, your policy may reimburse essential purchases such as clothing or toiletries. Check your policy for details on reimbursement limits and eligible reasons for delay.
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