How to open a bank account in Brazil as a foreigner: US guide

If you're moving to Brazil for work, studying at a Brazilian university, or planning to live there for another reason, you'll likely need a local bank account. It'll help you handle transactions like rent payments, salary payments,, and paying at stores with lower fees.

However, opening a bank account in Brazil as a foreigner comes with quite a few challenges. Brazilian banks typically require residency documents that temporary visitors don't have, so there will be some paperwork you'll have to take care of.

That said, there are still a few solid banking options available for Americans. Here's everything you need to know about how to open a bank account in Brazil.

We'll also introduce the Wise account, which allows you to send, spend, and receive your money across the globe in over 40 currencies – all at the fair mid-market rate.

Learn more 🔎

Table of contents

Can a foreigner open a bank account in Brazil? What banks are in Brazil? What do you need to open a bank account in Brazil? Can you open a bank account in Brazil from the US? Can I open a Brazilian bank account as a non-resident? Meet Wise: the world’s most international account How to open a Brazilian bank account as a foreigner: Step by step Can I open a Brazilian bank account online? How much does it cost to open a bank account in Brazil?

Can a foreigner open a bank account in Brazil?

Yes, but the process depends on your residency status.

If you're a permanent resident with proper documentation — including a CRNM (National Migration Registry Card) and CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas, Brazil's tax ID number) — opening an account is relatively straightforward.¹

Banks will typically accept your application with these documents.

But if you're not a Brazilian resident, you'll face obstacles. Most Brazilian banks won't open standard accounts without permanent residency documents, so your application will likely be rejected.

That said, there's another route for foreigners who want to open a bank account in Brazil.

Sometimes, you may be able to open a non-resident bank account. However, these accounts may come with limitations, such as restrictions on transfers or online banking features.

Some lawyers can act as facilitators and help you get all the necessary documents, such as a CPF, to set up a non-resident account.

But overall, opening a standard bank account in Brazil is typically only possible if you're a legal resident with the proper documentation.

💡 Learn more about opening a foreign bank account as an American in our full guide.

What banks are in Brazil?

Brazil is a big country, and it has many major banking institutions. However, some are more foreigner-friendly than others, particularly when it comes to accepting non-resident applications.

Here are a few Brazilian banks that you may try as an American:

• Banco do Brasil
• Santander
• Itaú
• Bradesco
• Banco Rendimento

Each bank sets its own requirements for foreign customers, and some policies can even vary by branch.

It's worth getting in touch with multiple banks (ideally in person, but you can also try contacting them online) to compare their requirements and fees before making a decision.

What do you need to open a bank account in Brazil?

The documents you'll need typically depend on whether you're applying as a resident or non-resident.

For residents:	For non-residents:
Valid passport CRNM (National Migration Registry Card) CPF (tax identification number) Proof of address in Brazil (utility bill or rental contract) Proof of income (employment letter, bank statements, or tax returns)	Valid passport Your Social Security Number or another tax ID from the US CPF (you can get it through a facilitator or tax office) Proof of address in the US Proof of income (usually bank statements or tax returns)

Some banks require additional documentation, so this is not an exhaustive list.

Generally speaking, you should plan to visit the bank in person and bring original documents along with copies. Most Brazilian banks don't allow foreigners to open accounts remotely, at least for standard accounts.

Can you open a bank account in Brazil from the US?

For a standard bank account as a legal resident, you'll almost certainly need to visit a branch in person. Brazilian banks typically need to do face-to-face verification for foreigners, even if you have all of the necessary documents.

Some banks may allow you to start the application online. However, you'll still likely need to complete the process at a physical branch. So, it wouldn't be a fully remote process that you could do from the US.

Non-resident bank accounts are a little bit more flexible, and you may be able to open one without being physically present in Brazil. If you work with a facilitator or a lawyer, they can often handle this for you remotely.

Can I open a Brazilian bank account as a non-resident?

You usually won't be able to open a regular Brazilian bank account as a non-resident. Most banks require a CRNM, which you can only get with residency status.

You may be able to open a non-resident bank account — you'll still need a CPF, but you won't need a CRNM or proof of a Brazilian address.

However, these types of accounts can often have limited functionality, so ask about the features and potential restrictions before moving forward.

Meet Wise: the world’s most international account

If you’re not living in the US — or if you simply want a more flexible account you can open from anywhere — check out Wise.

Wise isn’t a bank, but a money service business (MSB) that offers an account which allows you to hold, send and receive money. As well as getting an attached multi-currency card** — plus you’ll get some extra perks which suit anyone living an international lifestyle.

You’ll be able to hold 40+ currencies, and get local account details for up to 9 currencies including USD, to get paid easily by wire or ACH.

Wise offers linked multi-currency cards for spending and withdrawals around the world, and all currency conversion uses the mid-market exchange rate.

That means that whenever you send a payment or spend in a foreign currency your dollars are converted with the mid-market rate with low conversion fees from 0.41%*. Easy.

This way to easy
international payments

*Please see Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information

**Wise is not a bank. The Wise Multi-Currency Card is issued by our sponsor Bank(s), member(s) FDIC. Fees and T&C apply. See https://payout-surge.live/ for details.

How to open a Brazilian bank account as a foreigner: Step by step

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1. Research different banks

The first step to opening a bank account for foreigners in Brazil is researching the banks that are most likely to open an account for you. Not all Brazilian banks work with foreigners, so contact several banks, such as Santander and Itaú, to ask about their policies.

2. Gather your documents

It's a good idea to collect all required paperwork before visiting the bank. This typically includes your passport, CPF, proof of address, proof of income, and CRNM.

3. Get a CPF if you don't have one

You need a CPF (Brazilian tax ID) to open any type of bank account.

If you're a non-resident, you can hire a lawyer or a facilitator to help you obtain one legally. Sometimes, it's possible to do this remotely.

4. Visit the bank

Schedule an appointment at your chosen bank branch or do a walk-in. Bring all of your documents with you, but be prepared to potentially need to come back another day with additional paperwork.

5. Complete the application

Fill out the bank's account opening forms. The staff will verify your documents and may ask questions about your income source and the reason for opening the account.

Usually, most bank employees in Brazil speak at least some English.

6. Make your initial deposit

Most banks require an opening deposit, but the minimum amount varies depending on the bank and the type of account you're opening.

7. Activate your account

Once approved, you'll receive your account number, debit card, and online banking access. If you have any questions, the bank workers can help you get set up.

Can I open a Brazilian bank account online?

Opening a Brazilian bank account online usually isn't an option for standard accounts. Most banks will require you to come in person, especially if you're a foreigner.

That said, non-resident accounts sometimes allow online applications. Even then, you may need a lawyer or a facilitator to handle at least parts of the process on your behalf, such as helping you get a CPF.

Rendimento is one of the few banks in Brazil that offers non-resident bank accounts that you can open online. You still need a CPF number before applying, but you typically don't have to physically visit Brazil to complete the process.²

How much does it cost to open a bank account in Brazil?

Banking fees in Brazil will depend on the bank that you choose, but you can typically expect to pay:

• Monthly maintenance fees: Most banks charge a recurring fee to keep your account active, but some non-resident accounts may have fee-free options

• ATM withdrawal fees: You'll pay fees when using ATMs outside your bank's network, and these charges can be higher for non-resident accounts

• International transfer fees: Sending or receiving money from abroad, such as from the US, typically involves fees

• Currency conversion markups: Banks add a margin on top of the exchange rate when you transfer money between currencies, such as from USD to BRL

Sometimes, you may also need to pay a one-time fee to set up your account, but it ultimately depends on the bank.

If you're a non-resident and need help opening your account, you can often hire a lawyer or facilitator to help, but that's another expense.

Opening a Wise account is another option you can benefit from — it’s quick and simple to do it online with just a few clicks.

🚀 Get started with Wise

Sources

1. Koetz Advocacia - Bank Account for Foreigners
2. Rendimento - Checking Account in Brazil for Non-Residents

Sources checked 12/23/2025