Transfer Purpose Codes for BRL: How to Send Money to Brazil Without Getting Stuck
If you’ve ever tried to send money to Brazil (or from Brazil), you’ve probably seen a question like:
“What is the purpose of this transfer?”
It sounds simple — but picking the wrong purpose (or not having the right documents) is one of the fastest ways to delay a transfer, especially for real estate purchases.
What are transfer purposes, really?
Brazil classifies foreign exchange operations using purpose codes (a standardized way to label why money is moving).
Banks and FX providers ask for the purpose so they can record the transaction correctly and meet Brazilian regulatory requirements.
Wise explains this concept and shows common purposes here: Transfer purposes for BRL transfers
Why transfers get delayed
Delays usually happen for one of three reasons:
- The chosen purpose doesn’t match the real reason for the transfer.
- The provider asks for support documents and the sender can’t provide them quickly.
- Names or parties don’t line up (buyer vs sender vs recipient).
The “50k line”: simplified vs full classification
Brazil uses different classification frameworks depending on the amount and the operation type.
You’ll often hear about a “simplified” set for smaller operations and a more detailed set for larger ones.
The Central Bank has materials that help classify operations up to US$50,000 (or equivalent). See: Notas auxiliares para classificação de operação de câmbio (até US$50 mil)
For a broader reference (including annexes with classification codes), see: Resolution BCB No. 277 (with annexes)
Don’t worry — you don’t need to memorize codes. But you do need to pick the correct category and be ready to explain it.
Common transfer purposes (in normal human language)
Different providers show different labels, but these are very common categories:
Property purchase:
Buying or selling real estate in Brazil (often requires a contract or deed draft).
Investments:
Moving money for investment purposes (sometimes requires account and investment details).
Money to self:
Sending between accounts you own (the ownership match matters).
Money to friends or family:
Support payments (often okay, but still may require explanation).
Services:
Paying for legal, accounting, consulting, or other services (invoice helps).
Rent/property expenses:
Rent and ongoing property-related costs.
What documents might be requested (by purpose)
Not every transfer needs documents, but when a provider asks, it’s usually looking for something simple that proves the reason is real.
Here are common examples:
Property purchase:
Signed purchase agreement, deed draft, or proof of negotiation; seller information; property identification.
Services:
Invoice/contract showing what service you’re paying for; provider details (company name, tax ID if applicable).
Family support:
Basic explanation of relationship; sometimes proof of ongoing support, depending on the bank/provider.
Money to self:
Proof you own both accounts; matching legal name on both sides.
If you’re buying property: what to keep ready
Real estate transfers are common, but banks still may ask for proof.
Keep these ready in a single folder so you can respond fast:
- Signed purchase and sale agreement (or at least the signed proposal/term sheet, depending on stage)
- Seller’s identification (or company info) and receiving bank details
- Proof of your source of funds (sometimes requested for larger amounts)
- CPF details if the transaction is tied to your CPF record
For the “big picture” of sending money for real estate, read: How to Send Money to Brazil in 2023 – The Definitive Guide
3 practical tips that prevent 80% of problems
- Match names exactly: sender name, buyer name, and the contract name should line up.
- Avoid third-party transfers: sending from someone else’s account can trigger extra compliance checks.
- Don’t split transfers just to “fit” a category: it can look suspicious and may create more questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a Brazilian bank account to buy property in Brazil?
Not always. Many foreign buyers purchase without a local account, depending on the structure and the institutions involved.
2. Is Wise the same as a Brazilian bank?
No. Wise is a transfer platform. It can be a convenient route for many people, but availability and limits depend on the route and compliance rules.
3. What happens if I choose the wrong purpose?
Your transfer can be delayed, rejected, or returned. Fixing it usually means reclassifying and sometimes resubmitting documents.
4. Do purpose codes apply to all BRL-related transfers?
If the operation involves Brazilian FX reporting/classification, you’ll usually be asked to provide a purpose. The exact flow depends on your provider.
Recommended reading
- How to Send Money to Brazil in 2023 – The Definitive Guide
- How to Buy Real Estate in Brazil as a Foreigner
Important note: Brazil Safe Closing provides administrative assistance only. We do not provide legal, tax, financial, or immigration advice. If you need legal advice, talk to a licensed professional.