Banking in Brazil

To open a bank account in Brazil, an individual will need at a minimum:

1) proof of address

2) a CPF

• How To Obtain A CPF
  • A cadastro de pessoa fisíca is a personal tax ID number, much like a U.S. Social Security number. It’s not difficult to obtain and you don’t need to have permanent residency. Because a CPF is often required in routine transactions in Brazil (such as large purchases, even those in cash), you should obtain one if you plan to spend significant time in Brazil.
  • To apply, just complete the form and print it out (note, it’s all in Portuguese). Take it, with your passport and proof of address, to a Caixa or Banco do Brasil bank branch or a post office. Note that your card will be mailed to this address.
  • At the post office, submit the form and proof of address. The fee is currently 5.70 reais—about US$1.60. You will probably also be asked to provide your father’s and your mother’s full names. It’s easiest to have these printed out to hand over. You may also be asked to provide a phone number, which could be that of a friend. You’ll receive a long receipt.
  • Take all papers and the receipt to the nearest office of the Receita Federal, which is the Brazilian IRS. Present everything, and you should receive your CPF card by mail in about two weeks.