The Brazilian CPF is an essential tax identification number for anyone living in or traveling through Brazil. Here’s what it’s used for, how to obtain it for free, and why it can make life much easier for sailors, remote workers, and retirees.
What is the CPF?
The CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) is a Brazilian tax identification number. It’s similar to a tax ID or social security number in other countries. It allows the government to identify each person for financial and administrative processes in Brazil.
Put simply: without a CPF, many everyday tasks become impossible — even if you’re just visiting!
What is the CPF used for?
Although it’s primarily an administrative number, in practice it’s required for countless daily situations — including for travelers passing through the country.
Here are a few examples I’ve personally experienced:
- ordering products on Mercado Livre (Brazil’s equivalent of Amazon);
- making purchases over 500 R$ (about €80) in any supermarket;
- buying a SIM card;
- using a self-service laundry;
- buying engine oil or paint;
- or even… buying a 145 R$ pressure cooker (about €25) 😅
Yes — sometimes you need your CPF just to buy a pot!
It may seem surprising, but it’s simply the way the Brazilian government tracks commercial transactions.
How to obtain a CPF in Brazil
Getting a CPF is completely free and can only be done in person. The process is straightforward, but requires a bit of patience.
Here’s how it works:
- Go to a Receita Federal office (Brazil’s tax authority). For example, in Salvador de Bahia, the Receita Federal office is located at:
Avenida Luís Viana Filho, 3329 – Paralela, Salvador. - At the Receita Federal, you will need to present:
- your passport ;
- a temporary local address (a hotel or marina address works perfectly) ;
- an email address (your CPF will be sent there) ;
- a phone number (optional, but helpful).
3.You will receive your CPF by email a few days later (usually within four business days).
If you don’t receive it, you’ll unfortunately need to return to the same office to obtain it in person.
Important things to know about the CPF
- Never share your CPF publicly. It is your personal tax ID — keep it safe.
- Store the document carefully. Take a photo, email yourself a copy, or make several printouts. Obtaining a duplicate remotely is very complicated.
- No one should charge you for this service — it is 100% free.
In summary
The CPF may be just a small number, but it opens many doors in Brazil. Whether you’re a sailor, a remote worker, or a retiree, it will make daily life much easier: online orders, SIM cards, supermarket purchases, or minor formalities.
➡️ And for the visa process with Voiles & Visas: don’t worry — the CPF is not required. We work directly with our local partners so everything remains simple and stress-free, even without this number.
