Non‑Resident Bank Account in Brazil (CDE): What It Is and How to Open One

If you’re living outside Brazil but you need to pay expenses in Brazil (property costs, taxes, condo fees, contractors, or even family support), you might be thinking: “Do I need a Brazilian bank account?” Sometimes the answer is yes — but not always.

In this guide, I’ll explain the non‑resident bank account (often called a CDE account), what banks typically ask for, and how to avoid the delays that catch most people off guard.

Quick definition: what is a CDE account?

A non‑resident account in Brazil is commonly known as a CDE — short for Conta de Domiciliado no Exterior (an “account for residents abroad”). It’s designed for people who are not legal residents in Brazil but still need banking access for lawful operations.

If you want a simple overview (plus a practical list of typical documents), start here: Non-Resident Bank Account in Brazil

Do you really need a Brazilian bank account?

Before you start gathering documents, pause and ask this question. Many foreign buyers don’t actually need a bank account in Brazil to close a property purchase.

A lot of buyers actually close on a property without having a local bank account first. Here’s a helpful overview of the process: How to Buy Real Estate in Brazil as a Foreigner

So when does a CDE account make sense?

• You want to pay recurring local bills in BRL (condo, property manager, utilities).
• You’re collecting rent in Brazil and need a local receiving account.
• You want a smoother experience paying cartórios and registries (depending on the transaction).
• You want a long-term structure instead of doing one-off transfers every time.

What banks usually ask for (realistic checklist)

Each bank has its own compliance rules, but you’ll usually see a mix of identity + tax + “source of funds” proof. Common items include:

• Valid passport
• Brazilian CPF number (yes, this is usually required)
• Tax ID from your home country (example: SSN, NIF, etc.)
• Proof of address in your country of residence
• Recent tax return and/or proof of income (pay slips, statements, or business documents)

For a detailed checklist, check this Q&A: Non-Resident Bank Account in Brazil

Heads-up: banks may ask follow-up questions. That’s normal. It’s part of anti-money laundering and “know your customer” checks.

Step-by-step: how opening typically works

1. Pick the right account type and bank (not all banks handle non-resident accounts smoothly).
2. Gather your documents and make sure names match exactly across all papers.
3. Prepare translations/legalization if the bank requests them (some do, some don’t).
4. Complete the bank’s forms and compliance questionnaires.
5. Wait for the compliance review and respond fast to follow-up requests.
6. After approval, fund the account using a compliant transfer route.

How long does it take?

If your documents are ready and consistent, timelines can be fairly quick — but compliance review is the wild card.

A common question is timing. This FAQ gives a realistic idea of how long it can take when your documents are ready: Non-Resident Bank Account in Brazil

Funding the account: the part people underestimate

Opening the account is only half the story. The first transfer is where many people hit friction, because Brazilian banks and FX partners often require:

• A clear reason for the transfer (purpose),
• Documents that support the purpose (contract, invoice, deed, etc.),
• Consistency between sender name, account holder name, and the underlying transaction.

If you’re sending larger sums, read: How to Send Money to Brazil in 2023 – The Definitive Guide

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

• Starting before you have a CPF.
  • Most banks will ask for it. If you don’t have one, handle that first.
• Using inconsistent names.
  • If your passport includes a middle name but a utility bill doesn’t, fix it or explain it upfront.
• Sending funds from a third party.
  • If the buyer is John and the sender is a friend’s company, expect compliance questions.
• Assuming every bank has the same process.
  • Some banks are faster, others are strict, and some simply don’t want non-resident clients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a CPF to open a non-resident bank account in Brazil?

In most cases, yes. That’s why CPF planning is usually step one.

2. Can I open the account fully remotely?

Some banks allow remote onboarding, while others require an in-person step or a local representative. It varies.

3. Will having a Brazilian bank account make me a Brazilian tax resident?

Not by itself. Tax residency depends on your immigration/tax situation, not simply on having an account.

4. Can I invest with a non-resident account?

Some institutions offer investment products linked to non-resident accounts, but options and eligibility vary by provider.

Recommended reading

• Non-Resident Bank Account in Brazil
• How to Buy Real Estate in Brazil as a Foreigner
• How to Send Money to Brazil in 2023 – The Definitive Guide

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.