Updated March 2026 · 4 min read

CPF for tourists and short-stay visitors in Brazil

Even on a tourist visa, a CPF unlocks local SIM cards, Pix payments, and iFood in Brazil.

Yes, tourists can get a CPF

You do not need a permanent visa or residency to get a CPF. Tourists on short visits can and do get CPF numbers. Your CPF never expires, so even if you are only in Brazil for a few weeks, it works every time you come back.

With a CPF you can buy a local SIM card (dramatically cheaper than roaming), use Pix for payments, order on iFood, and avoid the 'gringo surcharge' on many transactions.

Tourist-specific considerations

The main challenge for tourists is proof of address. If you are in a hotel or Airbnb, the standard proof of address documents do not apply to you. There are specific workarounds that the Receita Federal accepts for tourists but they are not well documented online.

Timing is also important. If you are only in a city for a few days, you need to get it right on the first visit.