Updated April 2026
How Europeans Can Get a Brazilian CPF
Whether you are a Portuguese retiree in the Algarve of Brazil, a German digital nomad in Floripa, or a French student in Sao Paulo, the process is the same. Europeans have it slightly easier than some nationalities because most EU citizens enter Brazil visa-free. But the CPF process itself has the same traps for everyone.
The good news for Europeans
- ✓ No visa needed for stays up to 90 days (most EU countries)
- ✓ No translations required for your passport
- ✓ Same-day CPF at most Correios offices
- ✓ Some consulates in Europe process CPF applications before you travel
What you need
- 1 Valid EU passport (or UK passport). Original, not a copy.
- 2 Proof of Brazilian address. Utility bill, rental contract, or host declaration letter.
- 3 R$7 for the Correios fee. Some branches accept card.
The address proof challenge
This is where most Europeans get stuck. You just arrived. You are in an Airbnb or staying with someone. You do not have a Brazilian utility bill. The solution is a host declaration letter, but the format needs to be right and most people do not know it exists until they are standing at the counter being turned away.
Do not waste a trip
GET CPF generates your host declaration letter, pre-fills the form, finds the right office, and gives you a Portuguese cheat sheet. Five minutes of prep.
Get started for $29Getting a CPF before you travel
Some Brazilian consulates in Europe process CPF applications. This means you can have your CPF ready before you land. Consulates known to offer this include London, Paris, Berlin, Lisbon, Madrid, and Rome. Requirements and processing times vary, so contact your consulate directly.
Most Europeans find it faster to apply in person at a Correios once they arrive. The process takes 15 minutes and you often get the number the same day.
Popular destinations for Europeans
- Lisbon to Sao Paulo is the most common route. Large Portuguese-speaking community, direct flights, familiar culture.
- Florianopolis attracts Germans, Dutch, and Scandinavians for the beach lifestyle and tech scene.
- Rio de Janeiro remains popular with French and Italian expats.
- Curitiba has a strong German and Polish heritage and an organized, European feel.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa as a European?
Most EU citizens enter Brazil visa-free for up to 90 days. You can apply for a CPF on this entry. No work visa needed.
Can I apply at a consulate in Europe?
Some consulates offer this. Check with your local Brazilian consulate. Most people find it faster to apply in Brazil.
Do I need to translate my passport?
No. Your EU passport is accepted as-is. No translations or apostilles needed.
Is it different for UK citizens after Brexit?
No. The CPF process is identical for all foreign nationals regardless of EU membership.
How long can I stay in Brazil?
90 days visa-free for most EU citizens, often extendable for another 90 days. Your CPF is valid forever.
Sorted in 5 minutes
Pre-filled forms, the right office, document checker, host declaration generator. Everything a European needs to get their CPF on the first try.
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