BRAZIL will begin imposing restrictions on the entry of some foreigners from Asia, claiming that the country is being used as a stepping stone for migration to the United States and Canada.

According to Wednesday’s announcement by the Justice Ministry press office, the new arrangements will begin next Monday and affect migrants from a number of Asian countries who require visas to remain in Brazil. 

The new rules will not apply to people from Asian countries who are exempt from visa requirements, nor to citizens of the US and many European countries who also do not require visas for Brazil.