• Brazil imposing entry restrictions on some Asian nationals
• It will take effect on Monday and applies to those from Asia that require visas to remain in Brazil
• The restrictions are expected to impact the number of migrants seeking refuge at São Paulo’s airport

Brazil imposing entry restrictions on some Asian nationals to stop migration to US and Canada

Brazil has announced plans to implement stricter entry requirements for certain Asian nationals who use the country as a transit point to migrate to the United States and Canada. The new restrictions, which will take effect on Monday, will apply to individuals from Asian countries that require visas to remain in Brazil. It does not apply to people from Asian countries currently exempt from visas to Brazil. US citizens and many European nationals also do not require visas for Brazil.

A Federal Police investigation revealed that many migrants from India, Nepal, and Vietnam purchase flights with layovers in São Paulo’s international airport, intending to continue their journey to North America. However, these individuals often remain in Brazil as a stepping stone before embarking on their northward migration.

To address this issue, the Brazilian government will require visa-free travellers to either proceed to their final destination or return to their country of origin upon arrival in Brazil. The restrictions are expected to significantly impact the number of migrants seeking refuge at São Paulo’s airport, where over 70% of requests originate from India, Nepal, and Vietnam.