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How to Get a CPF in Brazil as a Foreigner – A Step-by-Step Online Guide
Here you will learn how to get a CPF.
A CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) is a tax identification number in Brazil. It is required for various activities, such as opening a bank account, making online purchases, ordering food in some apps, and even getting a SIM card. The good news is that you can apply for a CPF online before arriving in Brazil. The good news is that you can apply for a CPF online before arriving in Brazil, and all you need is a valid passport and a physical address in Brazil (this can be a friend’s address or an accommodation you have booked).
In this guide, I will walk you through the step-by-step process to apply for a CPF as a foreigner online, including screenshots of the forms, useful links, and expected processing times.
This whole process is a lot easier if you do it in a computer as you need to filled the forms, although, I know people that have made it directly with their cellphone.
This Whole Process is FREE! Don’t let people try to charge you for it!
Why You Need A CPF In Brazil
Having a CPF in Brazil makes many everyday activities much easier. Some of the most common reasons why foreigners get a CPF include:
- Opening a bank account
- Buying a SIM card for your phone
- Booking transportation tickets (like buses and flights within Brazil)
- Ordering food in some apps (like Ifood)
- Making online purchases (some e-commerce platforms require a CPF for payment)
Step 1: Access The Official Application Forms
To apply for a CPF online, visit the official website of the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service and complete the first form.
https://servicos.receita.fazenda.gov.br/Servicos/CPF/InscricaoCpfEstrangeiro/default.asp
You will need to complete two different forms, both requiring the same personal information.
Step 2: Fill Out The CPF Application Forms
In both application forms, you will be required to enter the following details:
- Full name (as in your passport)
- Date of birth (no spaces or / or – between the numbers)
- Type of document (passport)
- Passport number
- Country of birth
- Sex
- Mother’s name (even if deceased)
- A valid physical address in Brazil (can be a friend’s address or your booked accommodation)
- Brazilian postal code (CEP) – You can find the correct CEP on Google Maps. It is an eight-digit number located at the end of the address (just write down the numbers). Once you add the CEP it will automatically fill the spaces excepting of the street type (rua or avenue or which ever it is) the house number and the apartment number.
- Email address
Here is an example of how to complete the form.
There’s no need of adding a telephone or cellphone number.
Once you send it, you’ll get this in response.
Important: Write down the Cód. de Atendimento after submitting each form, as you will need it for future reference. Also, make sure to download the completed forms once they are done because you will need to send them later by email.
Step 3: Complete And Sign The Second Form
After filling out the first form, you will need to complete a second form using the same personal information as in Step 2. This second form is required as an additional verification step and must be manually signed.
- Complete the form. At the end where it says “Local e Data” you need to put the cities name and the date you are applying.
- Print the form and sign it manually.
- If you already have a digital signature, you can try using it, but it is recommended to print and sign by hand.
- Take a clear picture or scan of the signed form, as you will need to send it later via email.
Here is an example of how to fill the form. Remember to sign it manually.
Step 4: Send The Email Applying For Your CPF
After completing the forms, you will need to send them to the appropriate email address based on the state you’re going to or already in. The email address changes depending on your location in Brazil.
Besides the forms, you need to add a picture of your passport and also a selfie holding your passport open on the first page.
To find the correct email for your state, visit this page:
Find the correct email here
In your email, make sure to copy and paste the following content:
Subject: CPF (Full name of the solicitor)
Message:
Prezado Receita Federal, Venho por meio deste, expressar meu interesse em proceder com a inscrição do CPF para estrangeiros. Para tal, gostaria de formalizar a minha solicitação junto a este órgão Segue abaixo o código de atendimento referente à minha solicitação:
[Codigo de Atendimento]
Agradeço antecipadamente pela atenção e fico no aguardo de instruções adicionais para o prosseguimento com o processo de inscrição
Step 5: Download Your CPF Document
Once your application is approved, they will send it to you by email.
It comes in a eleven digit number and also in a QR code.
How Long Does It Take to Get a CPF?
- Online application: Usually processed within 24-72 hours
Final Thoughts
Getting a CPF in Brazil is a straightforward process that you can complete before even arriving in the country. Having a CPF will make your experience in Brazil much smoother, whether you need to open a bank account, buy a SIM card, or make online purchases.
If you have any questions or if you need help during the process, let me know in the comments!
If you are travelling around South America check out my other post!
