How to get a Brazilian Visa in Argentina

I am writing this blog post so that everyone going to Brazil from Argentina does not have to experience the frustrations that have consumed my past two weeks. So, here goes. This is how to actually get a visa (as an American/tourist) to go to Brazil from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Step 1: Do not simply go to the embassy. Especially because you need to go to the Brazilian consulate (they are different). Do not simply go to the consulate. You must make an appointment, which can be done here: http://www.conbrasil.org.ar/CONSBRASIL/visas_otros01engl.asp. Note: appointments take TWO WEEKS to make, so do this sooner rather than later.

Step 2: Fill out forms and print to bring to the consulate during your appointment time. Forms can be found on the same page: http://www.conbrasil.org.ar/CONSBRASIL/visas_otros01engl.asp (scroll down).

Step 3: Have a passport picture, flight information, hotel information and address and bank statement printed and ready to go. Note: your passport picture will be a part of your visa that goes in your passport (I say this because I have quite possibly the worst picture in mine).

Step 4: Go during your appointed time and hand in all forms. On the same day, go to the bank that is on Sante Fe (walk out of the consulate, make a left, walk three blocks to Sante Fe, make a left and walk two blocks). Pay at the bank (about $150 US) and KEEP THE RECEIPT.

Step 5: Three days later return to the consulate with the bank receipt and claim your passport.

After I wrote this it seems easy, but I made the mistake of simply going and asking for a visa. I was oh so rudely turned away (in Spanish, and the same person started speaking in English as soon as I had an appointment).

On that note, I’m off to Brazil!