Expert: Sandra - 7/15/2009

Question
hello, do you mind helping me out? im planning on going to brazil (humaita,rio do janeiro?) to train brazilian jiu jitsu in gracie academy, so i have some doubts.. im from mexico,i know i require a visa, can i get a students visa by studying jiu jitsu? could you give me some tips? some information about an apartment? any info would be appreciated.

Answer
Student visas are issued to those enrolled in an approved university course of study. Studying Portuguese or jiu-jitsu at an independent commercial school does not qualify. You can get a tourist visa, though. Check the requirements and limitations on the website for the Brazilian Consulate in your home country.

You would probably be limited to furnished apartments for tourists. (Regular unfurnished apartments usually require a 3 year lease and a guarantor to sign for you.) Craigslist for Rio has apartment listings, too. You could also ask the school if they know of any accomodations, perhaps someone willing to rent a room. Also you might consider staying at one of the hostels.

Here are some recommended apartment rental agencies for Rio:
www.gringomanagement.com
www.rioapartments.com
www.ez-riorentals.com
http://www.apartmentsholiday.com/apartments/Brazil/Rio-De-Janeiro-apartments/

A good introduction for tourists to Rio is found at www.ipanema.com

Have a wonderful time.