Brazil
3 governments, 3 different opinions
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions when traveling to Brazil. Be aware of street crime including robbery, mugging, and pickpocketing, particularly in major cities. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics in public.
United States (State Dept)
Level 2
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime. Violent crime — such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking — is common in urban areas. Gang activity and organized crime are widespread. Criminals sometimes use guns and other weapons.
Japan and the US assess this country one level apart. Review both perspectives below.
United Kingdom (FCDO)
FCDO warns of high levels of violent crime, particularly in major cities. Muggings, armed robberies, and express kidnappings occur regularly. Favelas (shanty towns) are particularly dangerous and should be avoided. Crime levels increase at night and during festivals and holidays. Be cautious of ATM fraud and credit card cloning.
Japan rates Brazil as Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions), while the US rates it Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) due to crime. This gap is significant because the US and UK provide much more alarming descriptions of Brazil's crime situation — including armed robbery, express kidnappings, and gang violence — than Japan's advisory suggests. The UK specifically warns about favelas, express kidnappings, and the use of firearms by criminals, painting a considerably more dangerous picture than Japan's advisory. For Japanese travelers accustomed to extremely low crime rates at home, Brazil's street crime reality requires a significant adjustment in awareness and behavior.
What Each Government Says
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
“Exercise normal precautions when traveling to Brazil. Be aware of street crime including robbery, mugging, and pickpocketing, particularly in major cities. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics in public.”
United States (State Dept)
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
“Exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime. Violent crime — such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking — is common in urban areas. Gang activity and organized crime are widespread. Criminals sometimes use guns and other weapons.”United Kingdom (FCDO)
See our advice before travelling
“FCDO warns of high levels of violent crime, particularly in major cities. Muggings, armed robberies, and express kidnappings occur regularly. Favelas (shanty towns) are particularly dangerous and should be avoided. Crime levels increase at night and during festivals and holidays. Be cautious of ATM fraud and credit card cloning.”Destination Customs
Prohibited / Restricted Imports
Narcotics and drugs — strictly prohibited. Penalties include lengthy prison sentences in Brazilian prisons, which are notoriously overcrowded.
Firearms and weapons — prohibited without Brazilian authorization.
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and animal products — restricted or prohibited. Subject to inspection.
Counterfeit goods and pirated media — confiscation and fines.
More than BRL 10,000 or equivalent in foreign currency — must be declared at customs.
Export Restrictions
Endangered wildlife, animal products, or plants — export strictly prohibited under IBAMA regulations and international CITES agreements. Penalties are severe.
Indigenous artifacts and cultural items — may require authorization from IPHAN (National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute).
Gemstones and minerals without proof of legal purchase — may be confiscated. Keep all receipts.
Customs rules can change. Always verify with the local customs authority or embassy before travelling. See Japan return customs guide
SAFE-SENTINEL Tips
💡 Based on all 3 sources:
- 1.Do not resist if confronted by armed robbers — hand over valuables immediately. Resistance significantly increases the risk of violence, and criminals in Brazil frequently carry firearms
- 2.Leave expensive jewelry, watches, and electronics at the hotel. Carry only the cash you need for the day in a front pocket. Use a cheap phone on the street if possible
- 3.Avoid walking alone at night, even in tourist areas. Use Uber or 99 (ride-hailing apps) instead of hailing taxis on the street
- 4.Never enter favelas without an organized, reputable tour guide. All three governments warn about the extreme danger of favela areas
- 5.Be alert at ATMs — use machines inside banks during business hours. Card cloning and express kidnappings at ATMs are real risks highlighted by the UK
- 6.Get comprehensive travel insurance covering violent crime, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation. Brazil's public hospitals can be overcrowded
- 7.Learn basic Portuguese safety phrases. English is not widely spoken, and being able to communicate in an emergency is critical
Pre-Trip Checklist
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Emergency Contacts
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Sources & Freshness
⚠️ This information may not reflect the latest situation. Always check official sources before travelling.