What is the CPF, and why it's step one
The CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Física) is the individual tax ID issued by Brazil's federal tax authority (Receita Federal). Anyone — Brazilian or foreign, resident or not — needs it for almost any official transaction.
Without a CPF you can't:
- Open a bank account
- Buy a SIM card in your own name
- Sign a rental lease
- Hold formal employment (CLT) or invoice as a freelancer
- Buy property or a vehicle, or open a company
Can you get it before traveling?
Yes — you can obtain a CPF from outside Brazil through the Brazilian consulate or embassy in your country (e-consular system), which is ideal if you haven't traveled yet. You can also apply directly inside Brazil after arrival.
💡 We recommend trying to get your CPF in your home country before traveling if possible, so you can open a bank account and sort out housing from day one.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- A selfie holding your passport open to the data page
- CRNM or residency protocol (if already resident in Brazil)
- Proof of address (if applying from inside Brazil)
Step by step
From outside Brazil (via consulate):
- Fill out the FCPF form on the Receita Federal website
- Book an appointment at the Brazilian consulate via the e-consular system
- Attend with original documents at the scheduled time
- The service is free, typically 2–4 weeks to receive the number by email
From inside Brazil:
- Fill out the online request on the Receita Federal website
- In some cases, book an appointment at the nearest tax office for verification
- The number is usually issued immediately or within a few days
⚠️ There's no physical CPF card anymore — it's just a number, usually used alongside your passport or CRNM as an accompanying ID.
We help you with
- Filling out the FCPF form correctly the first time
- Organizing the required documents
- Pointing you to the right consulate or method for your situation
- Following up until you receive your number
Request this service
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