Traveling from the vibrant, rhythmic streets of Brazil to the lush, untamed heart of Africa is a journey that promises unparalleled adventure. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a land of extremes—from the sprawling urban energy of Kinshasa to the ancient, mist-covered forests of the Virunga Mountains. For Brazilian citizens, the gateway to this magnificent landscape has been made significantly more accessible through the digital transformation of the Congolese immigration system.
The introduction of the Ordinary Flying eVisa means that the days of navigating complex physical paperwork at an embassy are largely over. However, entering the DRC still requires meticulous preparation. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at everything a traveler needs to know about the DRC eVisa for Brazil Citizens.
Do Brazilian Citizens Need a Visa for the DRC?
Yes. Brazilian passport holders must obtain a valid visa before arriving at any port of entry in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Unlike some neighboring African nations that offer “Visa on Arrival” for certain nationalities, the DRC requires a pre-approved electronic authorization.
The Ordinary Flying eVisa is the standard requirement for those arriving by air. It serves as an official entry permit that is electronically linked to your passport, though you must carry a physical printout to present to airlines and immigration officers.
How Long Does It Take for DRC eVisa to be Approved?
Timelines are critical when planning an international trip. The DRC government offers tiered processing speeds to accommodate both early planners and those with urgent requirements. Note that “Working Days” exclude weekends and DRC public holidays.
What is the DRC Ordinary Flying eVisa?
The Ordinary Flying eVisa is a specialized entry permit issued by the Direction Générale de Migration (DGM). It is designed specifically for short-term stays. While it is often initially issued for a period of 7 days, it acts as the legal foundation for your stay.
Once you are inside the country, if your itinerary requires a longer duration, you can visit the local DGM office in Kinshasa or Goma to extend your stay to 30, 60, or 90 days. This “Flying” visa is essential for boarding international flights heading into the DRC.
What are the Document Requirements for Brazilians to apply for the DRC eVisa?
To ensure your DRC visa application is not flagged or delayed, you must provide high-quality, digital scans of the following documents:
Passport Copy: A clear, color scan of your Brazilian passport’s bio-data page. Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of your intended arrival and at least two blank pages.
Passport Photo: A professional, digital photograph. It must be in color, taken against a plain white background, with a neutral facial expression. Avoid wearing hats or tinted glasses.
Motivation Letter: This is a crucial document. It should be a formal letter addressed to the “Direction Générale de Migration.” In this letter, you must clearly state:
The specific purpose of your visit (e.g., tourism, business meetings, visiting family).
Your full travel itinerary, including cities to be visited.
Your confirmed arrival and departure dates.
Details of your accommodation (hotel names or host addresses).
How to Apply for the DRC eVisa Online from Brazil?
The application process is streamlined into five primary steps:
Personal Information: Complete the digital form with your full name, date of birth, and Brazilian passport details. Ensure these match your passport exactly.
Upload Documents: Attach your digital photo, passport scan, and the PDF version of your motivation letter.
Security Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable processing fee using a secure online payment gateway.
Approval & Printing: Once the DGM reviews and approves your application, the eVisa will be sent to your registered email address. You must print this document; a digital copy on your phone may not be accepted by all airline check-in counters.
What are the Available Payment Methods in DRC?
The DRC eVisa portal primarily accepts Credit and Debit Cards, specifically Visa and Mastercard. Ensure your card is authorized for “International Online Transactions.” Some Brazilian banks may block transactions from African government portals unless you have pre-notified them or “unlocked” the card for international use via your banking app.
Is Travel Insurance Required for the DRC to Travellers?
While not a strict “hard requirement” for the digital upload, travel insurance is highly recommended and often requested by immigration officers. Given the high cost of medical evacuation and the limited healthcare infrastructure in some regions, having a policy that covers medical emergencies and repatriation is essential for Brazilian travelers.
Can I Work with a Tourist eVisa in DRC?
No. The Ordinary Flying eVisa is strictly for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. It does not grant you the right to seek employment or engage in long-term work. If you intend to work in the DRC, you must apply for an Establishment Visa (Work Visa) through the nearest DRC Embassy.
How Do I Track My DRC eVisa Status?
After Submission, You can visit the “Status” page on the official portal, enter your reference number and passport number, and see real-time updates. The status will typically move from “Submitted” to “In Review” and finally “Issued” or “Rejected.”
What are Common Reasons for eVisa Rejection?
Understanding why applications fail can help you get it right the first time:
Vague Motivation Letters: Failing to explain why you are visiting or where you are staying.
Incorrect Passport Numbers: Simple typos are the leading cause of rejection.
Photo Non-Compliance: Using a photo that is too dark, blurry, or has a non-white background.
Invalid Passport: Using a passport that expires in less than six months.
Can I Apply for a Group Application for Family?
Yes, the system allows for group submissions. This is particularly useful for Brazilian tour groups or families traveling together. While you can pay for multiple people in one transaction, you must ensure that each individual’s specific documents (especially their individual motivation letters and passport scans) are correctly uploaded to their respective profiles within the group application.
What are the Immigration Rules in DRC?
Landing in the DRC is the final step. At the airport (such as N’djili in Kinshasa):
6 Months Valid Passport.
Present your Printed eVisa.
Return Flight Ticket.
Accommodation Details.
Motivation Letter.
What to do if I Lose My Documents in the DRC?
If you lose your passport or printed eVisa while in the DRC:
Contact the Police: Report the loss and obtain a police report.
Contact the Brazilian Embassy: Reach out to the Brazilian Embassy in Kinshasa for a temporary travel document.
Reprint eVisa: Since the eVisa is digital, you can access your email and reprint it at any time.
What Are The Emergency Numbers in DRC for Travellers?
Stay safe by keeping these numbers saved:
Police: 112.
Fire Department: 118
Medical Emergencies: In Kinshasa, the Centre Hospitalier Monkole is highly regarded (+243 811 064 000).
Embassy of Brazil in Kinshasa: * Address: Avenue Colonel Lukusa, 161, Gombe, Kinshasa.
Website: Contact via the official Itamaraty portal for the most current phone numbers and emergency lines for Brazilian citizens.
What is the Best Time to Visit DRC for Tourists?
For Brazilian travelers used to tropical climates, the Dry Seasons are the best times to visit:
June to September: The long dry season, perfect for trekking and safaris.
January to February: The short dry season, offering clear skies and manageable temperatures.
Start Your Congolese Adventure Today
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a destination for the bold and the curious. By following this guide and securing your eVisa in advance, you are well on your way to discovering the heart of the African continent.
