Frequently Asked Questions
Every question foreigners ask about getting a CPF in Brazil, answered.
About the CPF
What is a CPF and why do I need one? +
A CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Fisicas) is Brazil's individual taxpayer number. It is the single document that separates people who can function in Brazil from people who are stuck as tourists. You need one to open a bank account, get a phone plan, rent an apartment, use Pix payments, order food delivery, buy anything online, sign up for a gym, and access most Brazilian apps and services. Without it, you are locked out of modern life in Brazil.
Does a CPF expire? +
No. Once you have a CPF number, it is yours for life. It does not expire and does not need to be renewed, regardless of your visa status or how long you stay in Brazil. Even if you leave and come back years later, your CPF is still valid.
What is the difference between CPF and CNPJ? +
A CPF is for individuals. A CNPJ is for businesses. Most foreigners only need a CPF. You only need a CNPJ if you are specifically operating a business in Brazil, selling to Brazilian customers, or employing people locally. Read our full CPF vs CNPJ guide.
Can foreigners get a CPF on a tourist visa? +
Yes. You do not need a work visa or permanent residency. Foreigners on any visa type, including tourist visas, can apply for and receive a CPF number at a Receita Federal office in Brazil.
Can I get a CPF before arriving in Brazil? +
In some cases, yes. Brazilian consulates in certain countries can process CPF applications. However, availability varies by country and consulate. Most foreigners find it easier and faster to apply in person once they arrive in Brazil.
What can I do once I have my CPF? +
Everything opens up. Open a bank account (Nubank takes 10 minutes), set up Pix payments, get a proper phone plan, rent an apartment on QuintoAndar, order on iFood and Rappi, shop on Mercado Livre and Amazon Brazil, sign up for a gym, and access government services. Your CPF is the key that unlocks modern life in Brazil. See our first week checklist.
The process
How long does it take to get a CPF? +
With GetCPF, the online preparation takes about 5 minutes. The office visit at the Receita Federal takes 15-20 minutes if you show up with the right documents prepared. Most people have their CPF number the same day.
What documents do I need? +
You need a valid passport with your Brazilian entry stamp or visa visible, proof of a Brazilian address (rental contract, utility bill, or host declaration letter), and your mother's full legal name. The proof of address is where most people get tripped up, especially if you are staying in an Airbnb or with a friend. GetCPF prepares all the forms and checks your documents before you go.
What if I get rejected at the office? +
About one in five foreigners gets rejected on their first attempt, usually because of a wrong office, a name formatting issue, or invalid proof of address. Our AI document checker verifies your documents before you go, which prevents most rejections. If you followed our steps and still got rejected, we offer a full refund, no questions asked.
Do I need to speak Portuguese? +
Not with GetCPF. Your Ready Pack includes a Portuguese cheat sheet with every phrase you might need at the office, plus pre-filled forms so you do not need to fill anything out in Portuguese yourself. The clerk processes your application, you do not need to have a conversation.
Does GetCPF work for my nationality? +
Yes. GetCPF works for passport holders from over 50 countries. We personalise your Ready Pack based on your nationality and visa type.
About GetCPF
What does GetCPF actually do for me? +
We prepare everything so your office visit works on the first try. Pre-filled government forms for your specific state, the correct Receita Federal office with directions, an AI document checker that verifies your passport and proof of address before you go, a Portuguese cheat sheet for the office visit, a host declaration letter generator if you are staying with someone, and a complete Ready Pack you can download and print.
How much does it cost? +
$29, one-time payment. No subscription, no hidden fees. This includes your full Ready Pack with pre-filled forms, office directions, document checker, Portuguese cheat sheet, and money-back guarantee.
Why should I pay when CPF registration is free? +
The CPF itself is free at the Receita Federal (or R$7 at Correios). You are paying for the preparation. About one in five foreigners gets rejected because of a wrong office, a name formatting issue, or invalid proof of address. Each rejection wastes half a day. $29 is less than a taxi from the airport and saves you the headache of figuring it all out in Portuguese.
Is my personal data safe? +
Yes. Your data is encrypted and only accessible to you. Sensitive information like your passport number and document photos are automatically deleted shortly after you download your Ready Pack. We never sell or share your information. Read our data retention policy.