What you need to open a bank account in Brazil

To open a bank account in Brazil, you need a valid passport or national ID, proof of address, and a tax ID number called a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas). If you are a foreigner, you can get a temporary CPF at the bank itself during the account-opening process, or you can obtain one beforehand from the Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal). Brazilian residents use their permanent CPF. Most banks also require proof of income or employment, though some accounts for non-residents have lower documentation requirements.

The specific documents vary by bank and account type. A savings account typically requires less documentation than a checking account. Some banks offer accounts designed for temporary residents or tourists that skip the income requirement. Others require a minimum deposit, which ranges from zero to several hundred reais depending on the institution and account tier.

You will need to visit a branch in person — Brazilian banks do not open accounts entirely online for first-time customers, even if you have a CPF already. Some banks allow you to start the process online and complete it at a branch; others require you to walk in without an appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid passport or ID, proof of address, and a CPF (tax ID number) — foreigners can obtain a temporary CPF at the bank during account opening.
  • Most banks require proof of income or employment, though some accounts for temporary residents or tourists do not.
  • You must visit a bank branch in person; no Brazilian bank opens accounts entirely online for new customers.
  • Processing time is usually one to three business days, and you receive your debit card and account details at the branch or by mail.
  • The largest banks (Itaú, Bradesco, Banco do Brasil, Caixa) have the most branches, but smaller banks and digital-only banks may have lower fees.

Getting a CPF if you do not have one

If you are a foreigner without a CPF, you have two paths: obtain one before opening the account, or let the bank handle it during the account-opening appointment. Getting one beforehand takes longer but gives you more control over the process.

To obtain a CPF before opening an account, visit the Receita Federal office in the city where you will be living or working. Bring your passport, a completed CPF request form (available on the Receita Federal website), and proof of address. Processing takes about one week. Some consulates and embassies also issue temporary CPFs for foreigners, which can speed up the process if you are still outside Brazil.

Alternatively, many banks will issue a temporary CPF on the spot during your account-opening appointment. This is faster but means you cannot start the process online. Ask the bank branch directly whether they offer this service — not all do.

Documents to bring to the bank branch

Bring originals and photocopies of the following:

  • Valid passport or national ID (RG)
  • Proof of address dated within the last 90 days — a utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement in your name
  • CPF (if you already have one) or your passport (if you are obtaining a temporary CPF at the bank)
  • Proof of income or employment — a recent pay stub, employment letter, or tax return (requirements vary by bank and account type)
  • Completed account-opening form (the bank provides this)

If your address proof is in a language other than Portuguese, bring a certified translation. Some banks accept documents in English, but it is safer to have a translation prepared by a certified translator (tradutor juramentado).

If you are self-employed or a business owner, bring documentation showing your business registration (CNPJ) and recent income statements. Banks treat self-employed applicants more cautiously and may ask for additional proof.

Which banks to consider and what they offer

Brazil has three categories of banks: large traditional banks, smaller regional banks, and digital-only banks. Your choice depends on whether you need physical branches, what fees matter to you, and how long you plan to stay.

Large traditional banks — Itaú, Bradesco, Banco do Brasil, and Caixa — have branches everywhere and accept all account types. They charge monthly maintenance fees (typically 10 to 20 reais per month) unless you meet a minimum balance or deposit requirement. Processing is straightforward but slower because branches are busy. Account opening takes one to three business days.

Digital-only banks — Nubank, Inter, and Neon — have no physical branches and charge zero monthly fees. They are faster to open (sometimes same-day approval) and easier to manage through an app. The trade-off is that you cannot deposit cash at a branch; you must transfer money from another account or use their partner ATMs. These banks work well if you receive salary by direct deposit or plan to transfer money from abroad.

Regional banks — Santander, HSBC, Bradesco regional branches — fall between the two. They have fewer branches than the big four but more than digital banks, and fees vary. Some offer accounts designed for expats with English-language support.

For foreigners staying less than a year, a digital bank is often the fastest option. For longer stays or if you need to deposit cash regularly, a traditional bank is more practical despite higher fees.

The account-opening appointment and what happens next

Call the bank branch or visit in person to schedule an appointment, or walk in if the bank accepts walk-ins (most do, though wait times vary). Bring all documents listed above. The appointment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.

The bank representative will verify your documents, confirm your identity, and ask about your employment and income. They will explain the account type, fees, and minimum balance requirements. You will sign the account agreement and complete the CPF application if you do not have one. If you are opening a temporary account as a tourist or short-term visitor, this step is shorter and may skip the income verification.

You will receive a temporary debit card at the branch or by mail within three to five business days. Your account is active immediately, and you can transfer money in or out the same day. The permanent card arrives by mail within one to two weeks. You will also receive your account number and routing number (código do banco and agência) immediately, which you need to set up direct deposits or receive international transfers.

Opening an account from outside Brazil

If you are still outside Brazil and want to open an account before you arrive, your options are limited. Most banks require you to be physically present in Brazil. However, some banks and digital-only services offer pre-arrival accounts or remote opening for customers with existing relationships (for example, if you already bank with them in another country).

HSBC and Santander sometimes allow expats to open accounts remotely if they have an HSBC or Santander account in their home country. Nubank and Inter occasionally offer remote opening for people with a valid CPF, but this changes by month. Contact the bank directly to ask about remote options.

If remote opening is not available, plan to open an account within your first week in Brazil. Most employers and landlords will accept a temporary account number while you wait for your permanent card. If you need to receive money immediately, ask whether the bank can issue a temporary account number by phone or email.

Fees, minimum balances, and account maintenance

Monthly maintenance fees range from zero (digital banks) to 20 reais (traditional banks). Some traditional banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually 1,000 to 5,000 reais) or receive a direct deposit of at least 1,500 reais per month. Check the fee schedule before opening.

ATM withdrawals are free at your bank's ATMs and at partner networks. Withdrawals at other banks' ATMs cost 6 to 10 reais per transaction. International transfers into your account are free; transfers out cost 50 to 150 reais depending on the bank and destination country. Debit card purchases are free. Checks are rarely used in Brazil and cost extra if you order them.

If you do not use your account for six months, the bank may freeze it or charge inactivity fees. Keep at least a small balance or make a transaction every few months to avoid this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account in Brazil without a CPF?

No, but you can obtain a temporary CPF at the bank during your account-opening appointment if you do not have one already. Bring your passport and proof of address. The process takes an extra 15 to 30 minutes at the branch.

How long does it take to open a bank account in Brazil?

The appointment itself takes 30 to 60 minutes. Your account is active immediately, and you can transfer money the same day. Your debit card arrives by mail within three to five business days. Digital banks are sometimes faster (same-day approval) because they have no physical branches.

What if I do not have proof of address in Brazil yet?

Bring a letter from your employer or landlord stating your address, or use a hotel reservation or Airbnb confirmation. Some banks accept a letter from a Brazilian citizen vouching for your address. Call the branch beforehand to ask what they will accept.

Can I open a bank account as a tourist?

Yes. Most banks offer tourist or temporary resident accounts that require only a passport and do not require proof of income. These accounts have lower limits on transfers and withdrawals but are faster to open. Ask the bank whether they offer a "conta para turista" or "conta temporária."

Do I need to speak Portuguese to open a bank account?

The account-opening form is in Portuguese, but many bank employees in major cities speak English. Bring a translation app or a bilingual friend if you are not confident. Some banks in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have English-speaking staff; call ahead to ask.