Originally Posted by ianmanka

When checking in for my flight to GIG on June 4th, the JFK agent asked if I had a visa (with a smile), and I said that one was not required because of the Olympics. He was just having some fun.

In fact, the large electronic billboard in JFK T8 occasionally shows a message from the Brazil tourism board which proudly proclaims you don't need a visa to visit Brazil. So for those who encounter any issues at JFK, refer them to the very large sign (post-security).

I encountered the same thing when entering Brazil -- I misheard the immigration agent when she asked if I had a visa and said that I did have one. She spent the next half-minute searching my passport for the Brazil visa, then I clarified that I did not have a visa, but had the waiver. They type a numeric code for those who qualify for the visa waiver, and a different code for those who have the standard 10-year visa. I hope government officials see the uptick in tourism and make the visa waiver permanent!