Brazil (BR)
South America's largest country, combining major work hubs, world-famous culture, beaches, Amazon biodiversity, strong digital payments, and complex but navigable bureaucracy for expats.
Digital Services
Digital ID, e-government and essential apps in Brazil.
gov.br account and CPF
gov.br is the federal digital identity and login layer for all public services. CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) is the personal tax and identity number used in banking, contracts, health, commerce and government — foreigners legally present in Brazil must obtain one.
How to get it: CPF can be issued through Receita Federal, Brazilian consulates or partner channels depending on your status. gov.br account is created online; higher trust levels require bank integration or biometric validation. The Carteira de Identidade Nacional (CIN) — launched in 2023 — is the new unified national ID replacing older state-issued RG cards.
E-Government Portal
https://www.gov.brMany services require CPF, a reliable Brazilian phone number and a gov.br account. Higher trust levels unlock more sensitive services. The system is primarily Portuguese-language.
Essential Apps
ExpatCheapRent
FreeExpat-focused cheap rental finder at expatcheaprent.com — compares listings across major rental portals to help newcomers find affordable apartments.
QuintoAndar
FreeBrazil's leading tech-enabled rental platform — verified listings, digital contracts and guarantor alternatives in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and 50+ cities.
gov.br
FreeFederal login and digital documents — the single entry point for all Brazilian federal government services.
Meu INSS
FreeINSS statements, appointment booking, pension services and social security benefit management.
Receita Federal
FreeCPF registration, income tax return (IRPF) filing and tax clearance certificates.
Carteira de Trabalho Digital
FreeDigital employment record for CLT workers — view employment history, contracts and formal work records.
Uber / 99
FreeRide-hailing in major Brazilian cities — 99 has broader coverage in smaller cities where Uber may be limited.
The essential communication tool — landlords, doctors, schools, lawyers, service providers and businesses all primarily use WhatsApp in Brazil.
iFood / Rappi
FreeFood and grocery delivery across all major cities — iFood is Brazil's market leader; Rappi also offers pharmacy and courier delivery.
Nubank / bank app with Pix
FreeNubank is Brazil's most popular neobank; all major banks offer mobile apps with instant Pix payment — Pix is mandatory for daily transactions and bill payments.
OLX Brasil
FreeBrazil's largest classifieds platform for furniture, electronics, vehicles, real estate and second-hand goods.
Google Maps / Waze
FreeBoth apps are widely used — Waze is particularly popular for avoiding São Paulo and Rio traffic; Maps for general navigation.
Brazil is digitally advanced but Portuguese-first — nearly all government portals and apps are Portuguese-only. Keep your CPF, gov.br credentials, bank phone number and email secure; account recovery can be very difficult from abroad.