Visa Waiver Program Begins For Tourist Markets With Strong Olympic Traditions
by Adam StumpfCitizens of Australia, Canada, USA, and Japan can now begin visiting Brazil before, during, and after the Olympics and Paralympics. June 1st began the period of unilateral visa exemption for these countries, which will bring more tourists into Brazil than originally planned.
Between 300,000 and 500,000 people are expected. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) predicts $1.7 billion will be put into the Brazilian economy.
Citizens of these countries are guaranteed visa free entry between June 1st and September 18th. The exemption is geared toward international visitors who come for tourism purposes. Visitors do not need to prove they have a ticket to any Olympic events.
More than 53,000 tickets have already been sold in Australia for Olympic events. North American tourism professionals began briefings and preparations for the new policy earlier this year. American and Canadian citizens make up much of Brazil’s yearly tourists.
