What is a CPF, and how to get a CPF as a foreigner in Brazil
- Jan 11, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 9
Whether you're visiting Brazil as a tourist, moving there for work or as a digital nomad, or investing in property, you'll quickly realise that having a CPF is an essential part of your day-to-day life.
Unlike in other countries where your tax number is used only for tax purposes, in Brazil your CPF, or personal tax number, is needed for shopping and accessing many basic services.
It is needed to buy bus and plane tickets, event tickets, football tickets, e-commerce, food delivery, sim cards, and much more. It is also widely used for online transactions, with many websites and apps asking for your CPF during checkout. You'll be asked for your CPF in places you'd never expect - the supermarket, pharmacy, and even the laundromat - and having one can sometimes earn you a discount.
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What is a CPF Number?
The CPF, or Cadastro de Pessoas FÃsicas, is a unique identification number used by the Brazilian government to track individuals for tax and financial purposes. Similar to a social security or taxpayer identification number in other countries, it is essential for both Brazilian citizens and foreigners spending an extended time in Brazil.
For foreigners, the CPF is indispensable for more than just taxes. Aside from day-to-day transactions, it is essential for anyone wanting to make larger transactions such as purchasing a car or property.
Without it, many basic activities in Brazil may become more complicated or impossible to complete.
How to get a Brazilian CPF number as a foreigner in 2026
Obtaining a CPF as a foreigner is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some documentation. There are several ways to apply:
Applying by email: To apply for a CPF by email, you'll need to attach your documents and draft an email briefly stating that you are submitting the required documents for a CPF. An example message could be:
"Olá, estou entrando em contato para solicitar o CPF. Segue abaixo a documentação conforme requisitado. Aguardo retorno para darmos continuidade ao processo. Obrigado."
meaning,
"Hello, I am reaching out to apply for a CPF. Attached is the documentation as requested. I await your response to proceed with the process. Thank you." Be sure to attach the following documents to your email:
A high-quality scan of your passport.
A high-quality photo of yourself holding your passport, with the passport legible
A screenshot or PDF of your "Protocolo de Atendimento" (which you can fill out here, click "iniciar" to begin).
A completed form, which can be accessed here.
Proof of lodging, which could be a confirmation email from a booking service like Booking.com
Ensure your attachments are clear and well-organized, with meaningful file names. After sending your email, you should typically receive your CPF within a few business days.
If you are in São Paulo, send your request to this email address. If you are located elsewhere in Brazil, you can find the appropriate email address for your region by visiting the official Receita Federal website here.
Applying outside Brazil, at a Brazilian Consulate or Embassy: If you are outside of Brazil, you can apply for a CPF at your nearest Brazilian consulate or embassy. First, contact your nearest embassy or consulate to make an appointment. On the day of your appointment, the process involves filling out a form, and presenting identification, including your passport and birth certificate (I was able to provide a photocopy - but check the specific requirements with your embassy, in case they require the original). This service is provided for free. You will receive your CPF number at the appointment.
Applying inside Brazil, in person: If you are in Brazil, you can apply in person at any post office (Correios), Banco do Brasil, or Caixa Econômica Federal branch. You’ll need to fill out a registration form, present your passport, and pay a small fee (R$ 7, 2026). The CPF is typically issued immediately, and if requested, a physical card will be mailed to your address.
Do you really need a CPF in Brazil?
Having a CPF is essential for anyone interacting with the Brazilian system. Whether you are staying in Brazil for an extended period or just visiting, here are the key reasons why you’ll need a CPF:
Buying Bus or Plane Tickets Online: Many Brazilian travel websites, including those that sell bus or plane tickets, require you to provide a CPF when booking. This is especially important for long-distance travel, where buses and flights are often booked online in advance. Without a CPF, purchasing tickets on these platforms becomes very difficult. While some international platforms allow you to make bookings without a CPF, they tend to be more expensive. Read my full guide to buying a bus ticket without a CPF.
E-commerce and Online Services: A CPF is necessary for making purchases on many Brazilian e-commerce websites, including large retailers like Amazon Brazil and local online shops. Even when signing up for apps such as iFood (food delivery), you are asked to provide your CPF during registration.
Renting, Buying, or Selling Property: Whether you're renting an apartment for a few months, buying a house, or selling property, a CPF is required to sign any formal agreements. Real estate agencies and landlords will ask for it when drawing up contracts, and property transactions cannot legally take place without one.
Opening a Bank Account: A CPF is mandatory for opening a Brazilian bank account. Whether you're staying long-term or simply need an account for local transactions, you cannot access banking services such as debit or credit cards, loans, or transfers without it.
Taxation and Investments: If you are investing in the Brazilian stock market, starting a business, or engaging in any other financial activities, a CPF is needed for tax purposes. The CPF allows the government to track your financial activities, ensuring compliance with Brazilian tax laws. Even foreigners who do not reside in Brazil but have business interests in the country will need one.
Registering a SIM Card: If you want a local Brazilian phone number, a CPF is mandatory to register a SIM card. This is one of the first things many foreigners need to do upon arrival in Brazil to stay connected locally - though ironically, to register your sim, you will also need a Brazilian ID card with your CPF listed, so you can't get one right away. Try to get a SIM registered with your passport in the meantime, or get an eSim if your trip is shorter.
In summary, a CPF is an essential document for anyone interacting with Brazilian systems, whether you're living there, visiting, or doing business. It simplifies access to services like booking bus and plane tickets online, buying event tickets, online shopping, and yes, even going to the laundromat. The sooner you get your CPF, the smoother your stay in Brazil will be.
More resources for planning your trip to Brazil
Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. Or, rent a car and give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Find your perfect accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels
You're not ready to travel until you have travel insurance. I recommend Safety Wing to my friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. Get a free quote
Forgetting something? Read my packing check-list for Brazil, and my list of 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil