Do Brazilians need a passport for Chile and Argentina?
No, Brazilians do not need a passport to enter Argentina or Chile. Under Mercosur rules, it is possible to travel to both countries with just a valid RG (Brazilian national identity card), as long as it is in good condition and within the recommended period of validity. In other words, for most travellers the RG is enough, with no need to apply for a passport.
Even though it is simple, it helps to know a few precautions to avoid surprises at the border. Below, we explain what to look for on your document and what to confirm before you travel.
Can I travel to Argentina and Chile with just my RG?
Yes. Argentina and Chile are part of the Mercosur agreement, which allows Brazilians to enter with their identity card, without needing a passport. This makes life much easier for anyone who wants to visit neighbouring countries without the bureaucracy of getting a new passport.
Even so, the document must meet a few basic requirements to be accepted. Having an RG is not enough: it must be in a condition that allows it to be read and recognised at the border.
What to check on your document
The most important point is the condition of your RG. Documents that are very old, worn, altered or with a faded photo may cause problems. The photo must allow the officer to recognise you, and the details must be legible.
It is worth paying attention to a few points:
- The photo should be clear and look like you today.
- The document must not be torn, irregularly laminated or damaged.
- The numbers and details must be legible.
- Very old documents may not be accepted, even within their validity.
If your RG is old or in poor condition, the safest option is to request a replacement copy in advance. A new, well-kept identity card avoids headaches and delays.
What about the validity of the document?
In Brazil, the RG may not show a clear expiry date on every model, but the general recommendation is to travel with a recent document. Very old models, issued many years ago, may raise doubts when checked. So, if your document is quite old, consider renewing it before you travel.
This simple precaution gives peace of mind both to you and to the team accompanying the group, because it makes crossing the border faster.
What about minors?
When there are minors on the trip, the rules tend to be more specific and may involve authorisations and additional documents. Since every family situation is different, and the requirements may vary, the best approach is to check in advance what applies to your case.
This is general guidance, not definitive legal advice. For that reason, always confirm the up-to-date rules for minors before booking the trip.
Why confirm the rules before travelling
Border and documentation rules can change over time. What applies today may be adjusted by the countries involved. For that reason, the most important recommendation in this article is a simple one: always confirm the up-to-date documentation before you travel.
When you travel in a guided group, it becomes even easier. The agency tells you which documents to bring and guides the group at the crossing. Even so, the final check of your document is a responsibility worth reviewing calmly, with plenty of time to resolve any issue.
How travelling in a guided group works
Visiting Argentina and Chile is more relaxing when you do not have to take care of everything alone. On a guided group trip, a tour guide and a travel agent registered with CADASTUR accompany the group from departure to return. They help at the border, organise the stops and are close at hand at every stage.
Guatambu Travel trips depart from Porto Alegre, in Rio Grande do Sul, on leito-total (fully reclining sleeper seat) coaches with air conditioning and internet via Starlink, with accommodation that already includes breakfast. Everything is designed for people aged 60 or over who want to travel in comfort and with peace of mind.
How payment works
To reserve your place, we normally ask for a deposit of 10% of the trip price. The remainder can be paid in one of two ways: in instalments up to the day of departure, or in one payment on departure. Payments are made by PIX (Brazilian instant payment system). This way, you can plan at your own pace.
Frequently asked questions
Do Brazilians need a passport for Argentina? No. It is possible to enter with a valid RG in good condition, within Mercosur rules.
And for Chile, is a passport needed? No, it is not. Chile is part of the Mercosur agreement, and Brazilians can enter with their identity card.
My RG is old. Can I use it? It may cause problems if it is very worn or out of date. The safest option is to request a recent replacement copy before travelling.
Can children and teenagers travel with just an RG? For minors, the requirements may be different and include authorisations. Check the up-to-date rules in advance.
Can the rules change? Yes. For that reason, always confirm the up-to-date documentation before the trip.
If you already want to visit Argentina and Chile, the documents do not have to be an obstacle. Explore our expeditions at /expedicoes and talk to us on WhatsApp to find out exactly what to bring. The world is waiting. We take care of the rest.
Cover image: Elemaki, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0).
