Quick answer
A Brazilian citizen living outside Brazil may, in some circumstances, apply for a new U.S. visa in the country of residence. But a 'renewal' is not an automatic extension of the previous visa; it is a new application. In 2026, the Department of State instructs nonimmigrant visa applicants to apply generally in their country of nationality or residence. In addition, potential B1/B2 interview-waiver eligibility requires, among other criteria, applying in the country of nationality or usual residence.
A renewal is a new visa application
The previous visa is not simply extended. The applicant files a new application and undergoes a new adjudication. Prior visa history may affect certain procedures, including possible interview-waiver eligibility, but it does not remove the requirement to meet the rules in effect at the time of the new application.
Brazilians living abroad should focus on their current residence
A Brazilian citizen who has lawfully moved to another country is not necessarily required to return to Brazil simply because the previous U.S. visa was issued there. The July 2026 guidance recognises the applicant’s country of residence as an appropriate location. Applicants relying on residence should be prepared to demonstrate it.
This is different from being temporarily abroad. Short travel, temporary stays or presence without usual residence do not necessarily place the applicant in the same position as someone who genuinely lives in that country.
Interview waiver has its own conditions
Since October 2025, Department of State guidance has allowed possible interview waivers for certain B1, B2 or B1/B2 renewals within 12 months of the previous visa’s expiration when the prior visa was issued for full validity and the applicant was at least 18 at the time of issuance. Additional criteria include applying in the country of nationality or usual residence, having no refusal that was not overcome or waived, and having no apparent or potential ineligibility.
Even when those conditions appear to be met, a consular officer may still require an in-person interview. Living abroad therefore does not make renewal automatically interview-free.
Why trying to renew during a trip can complicate the case
An applicant who is merely travelling and chooses another country because of appointment availability is in a different situation. The July 2026 guidance warns that applicants outside their country of nationality or residence may face significantly longer waits, greater difficulty qualifying and non-refundable, non-transferable fees. For renewal cases, potential interview-waiver eligibility also requires applying in the country of nationality or usual residence.
Frequently asked questions
Can I renew my U.S. visa in the country where I currently live?
The country of residence is one of the recommended locations if you can demonstrate that residence and follow the procedures of the local U.S. post.
Do I have to return to Brazil because my previous visa was issued there?
Not necessarily. The prior place of issuance is not the only factor. Nationality, current residence and local procedures matter.
Can I renew while travelling in another country?
A post may process some applicants, but current guidance discourages applications outside the country of nationality or residence and identifies practical disadvantages.
Does renewing within 12 months guarantee an interview waiver?
No. The 12-month period is only one requirement, and consular officers retain discretion to require an interview.
Does living abroad change the validity of my current visa?
No. The existing visa remains subject to its original validity and conditions. Residence becomes relevant when planning a new application.
Closing
For Brazilians living abroad, renewal planning should start with current residence, prior visa history and the procedures of the appropriate U.S. post. Private consular assistance can help organise the application but cannot promise an interview waiver, appointment or approval.
Official sources consulted
For rules and procedures that may change, the final reference should always be the official source in effect on the application date.
• U.S. Department of State — Adjudicating Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants in Their Country of Residence: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/adjudicating-niv-applicants-in-their-country-of-residence.html
• U.S. Department of State — Interview Waiver Update September 18, 2025: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/interview-waiver-update-sept-18-2025.html
Editorial note
Informational content produced by MVA Vistos, a private and independent consular-assistance company. MVA Vistos is not affiliated with any government, embassy or consulate and cannot guarantee approval, timing or outcome. Rules and procedures may change; confirm current official guidance before filing.
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