The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency published the decree on June 17. Travellers must have received a booster dose within the previous 12 months. Children under 12 and medical exemption holders are excluded from the requirement.
Airlines will verify documents at check-in with fines up to R$10,000 for non-compliance. The policy follows a small summer wave of cases reported in May. Health officials aim to prevent holiday-season hospital overload.
Similar requirements existed in 2022 but were lifted in early 2024. Neighbouring countries including Argentina and Peru are considering parallel rules. WHO representatives have been consulted on implementation logistics.
What this means for you
Schedule a booster appointment before November if planning December travel to Brazil. Download and test the Conecte SUS app ahead of departure for digital proof. Carry a printed backup certificate in case of app connectivity issues at airports.
Confirm airline policies at booking as some carriers may require earlier verification. Avoid last-minute boosters within 14 days of travel due to potential side effects affecting flights.
Additional Latin American countries may adopt similar rules by early 2027.