Updated April 2026 · 6 min read

How to open a bank account in Brazil as a foreigner (2026)

Step-by-step guide to opening a Brazilian bank account as a foreigner. Which banks accept foreigners, what you need, and why a CPF comes first.

Brazil has some of the best digital banking in the world

Brazil's fintech scene is genuinely ahead of most countries. Apps like Nubank have millions of customers and are widely regarded as some of the best digital banks anywhere. No monthly fees, instant transfers, beautiful interfaces. You can open an account from your couch in 10 minutes.

The only thing standing between you and all of this is a CPF. Every bank in Brazil requires one to open an account. No exceptions. It is the first thing they ask for, before your passport, before anything else.

The best banks for foreigners in 2026

Nubank is where most foreigners start. The app is available in English, there are no monthly fees, and you can sign up entirely through your phone with your CPF and passport. Most people have a working account within 10 minutes.

Inter is the second most popular choice. Similar to Nubank but with investment features and a marketplace built in. Also free, also has an English interface.

C6 Bank accepts foreigners and offers a global account that lets you hold dollars and reais in the same app. Great if you receive income in USD.

Traditional banks like Bradesco, Itau, and Banco do Brasil will open accounts for foreigners but require a branch visit, more paperwork, and sometimes charge monthly fees. Most expats skip these entirely.

What you need

For digital banks (Nubank, Inter, C6): your CPF number, your passport, and a Brazilian address. The entire process happens on your phone.

For traditional banks: your CPF, passport, proof of Brazilian address (utility bill or rental contract), and proof of income. Expect 1-2 hours at a branch.

The difference is night and day. With a CPF, you download Nubank and you are banking within minutes. Without one, you are stuck using your international card and watching 3-5% disappear on every transaction in foreign fees.

Pix changes everything

Once your account is open, you unlock Pix. This is Brazil's instant payment system and honestly one of the most impressive things about living here. Rent, restaurants, street vendors, splitting bills, paying your barber. Everything uses Pix. It is free, instant, and works 24/7.

Your CPF number becomes your Pix key. When someone asks 'what is your Pix?', you give them your CPF.

Without Pix, you are the person at the restaurant asking 'do you take card?' while everyone else just scans a QR code. Most small businesses and street food vendors only accept Pix or cash. Getting set up means you stop being a tourist and start living like a local.