Brazil considers approval of US Ambassador Daniel Perez

The Brazilian government is expected to grant agrément to Daniel Perez, the nominee appointed by Donald Trump to serve as the United States Ambassador to Brazil. The decision follows a period of suspension regarding ambassadorial appointments during the recent election cycle.

Diplomatic tensions have emerged regarding visa reciprocity. In August, the United States restricted the multiple-entry visa of Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, the Brazilian Ambassador to Washington, in response to Brazil's delay in approving the American nominee. While the Brazilian government denies that the approval of Perez is strictly conditional on the restoration of Viotti's visa status, officials within the Planalto Palace suggest that the type of diplomatic visa granted to Perez—specifically whether it allows for free transit—may be tied to the treatment received by the Brazilian ambassador.

Daniel Perez, a former Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives and a Republican ally, had his nomination approved by the U.S. Senate in August. Brazil has not had a resident U.S. Ambassador since January 2025.