Three things every new arrival needs — and can do completely on their own. Exact steps, no middleman, no gringo tax.
The CPF is Brazil's tax ID — and the key to everything: SIM cards, bank apps, pharmacies, delivery apps, gym contracts, even some store discounts. Get it first; everything else gets easier.
Go to the Receita Federal website → "Meu CPF" → inscrição for foreigners. Fill the form with your passport details exactly as printed. You do not need to be a resident — tourists can apply.
Some applications are approved instantly by email; others get flagged for an in-person visit. Bring your passport to any Receita Federal office (or Banco do Brasil / Correios service desk). No appointment needed at most offices — go early.
You'll get a number, not a physical card. Screenshot it, save it in your notes app — you'll type it 5 times a week for the rest of your life in Brazil.
Buy an eSIM (Airalo, Holafly, Nomad) before your flight so you have data the second you land. This is your bridge for week one — don't try to solve the local SIM at the airport.
Brazilian law requires every SIM to be registered to a CPF. No CPF = no local number. (See Track 1 — this is why order matters.)
Go to an official Vivo, Claro, or TIM store (not a street kiosk) with passport + CPF. Ask for a pré-pago (prepaid) chip. Vivo generally has the best coverage in Rio; TIM often the cheapest data.
Download your carrier's app and recharge with a foreign card or Pix. Set a monthly recharge reminder — prepaid plans lapse silently and your number can be recycled after long inactivity.
Under 6 months: nomad travel insurance is enough. Longer / nomad visa: you need health coverage valid in Brazil — it's a visa requirement, not a suggestion.
SafetyWing, Genki, or World Nomads — all bought online in minutes, all cover Brazil. Check the fine print for: motorbike accidents, adventure sports, and electronics theft (relevant in Rio).
Local plans (Amil, SulAmérica, Bradesco Saúde, Unimed) give you Rio's excellent private hospitals at local prices. Use a corretor (broker) — they compare all insurers and cost you nothing. Under 35? Local plans can be surprisingly cheap.
Save this now: Copa Star (Copacabana) is the South Zone's premium private hospital. Emergencies in Brazil: dial 192 (SAMU ambulance). Pharmacies (drogarias) are everywhere and pharmacists can handle minor issues.
Visa strategy, bank account, apartment hunting, vetted lawyers and doctors, and a local on WhatsApp for 60 days — that's what LandedRio does for $199.
Get set up in Rio →