Brazil

Carrying cannabis for your own use is no longer a crime in Brazil, but it is still illegal and police will confiscate it. Since a Supreme Court ruling in June 2024, up to 40 grams of cannabis or six female plants is presumed to be personal use: no arrest and no criminal record, just seizure plus a formal warning and a mandatory educational course applied in a proceeding with no criminal effect. That presumption can be rebutted - police can still arrest for trafficking below 40 grams where scales, packaging or messages suggest selling - and bringing cannabis into or out of Brazil, including while transiting an airport, is trafficking punishable by 5 to 15 years.

Personal possession of up to 40 g of cannabis or six female plants: no prison and no criminal record - the cannabis is seized and a judge applies a warning about the effects of drugs and attendance at an educational course, in a proceeding with no criminal effect (Lei 11.343/2006 art. 28, items I and III, as applied by the Supreme Court in RE 635.659). Above that amount, or with any indication of dealing, the charge is trafficking under art. 33: 5 to 15 years imprisonment and 500 to 1,500 day-fines, increased by one sixth to two thirds where the circumstances show the offence crossed a border (art. 40, item I). Importing or exporting cannabis in any quantity is trafficking, not possession.

Carry prescription medication in original packaging with your prescription, in amounts consistent with personal use; controlled substances may need authorization.

Medications may be subject to health inspection; confirm legality with ANVISA.

Brazil forbids importing or possessing firearms without prior authorization, and this extends even to spent shell casings or ammunition in your luggage in transit.

Arrest and prosecution anywhere in the country, including at airports.

There is no cap on cash, but amounts over US$10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared to customs via the electronic traveler declaration (e-DBV) on entry or exit.

Undeclared cash can be seized; declaring has no tax implications.

Brazil strictly regulates exporting tropical plants and wildlife; in the Amazon, exporting biological materials without permits can bring 'biopiracy' charges.

Criminal charges for biopiracy

Brazil's health agency ANVISA bans all e-cigarettes/vapes; any form of import is prohibited, including for personal use and in your carry-on luggage.

Devices seized at the border; health-law fines and penalties apply.

Under Brazil's 'Lei Seca' you cannot drive with any measurable blood-alcohol level (zero tolerance), and police run random breathalyzer checkpoints.

Legal penalties plus vehicle impoundment.

Brazil has no legal restrictions on same-sex marriage, relations, or events; however, violence against LGB individuals is a serious concern.