What is CNPJ?
CNPJ (Cadastro Nacional da Pessoa Jurídica) is the Brazilian federal tax ID number required for all companies operating in Brazil. It's essential for legal business operations.
Tax Identification
Unique 14-digit number that identifies your business for tax purposes and government interactions in Brazil.
Legal Requirement
Mandatory for all Brazilian companies to issue invoices, open business accounts, and conduct legal business operations.
Fast Processing
CNPJ applications are typically processed and approved on the same day when all requirements are met.
CNPJ Application Process
Follow these steps to successfully obtain your CNPJ and establish your business tax identification in Brazil.
Complete Company Registration
First, register your company with the Commercial Registry (Junta Comercial) and obtain your commercial registration certificate.
Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documentation for the CNPJ application, including personal and business documents.
Choose Tax Regime
Select the appropriate tax regime for your business: Simples Nacional, Lucro Presumido, or Lucro Real.
Access Federal Revenue Portal
Use the Federal Revenue Service online portal to begin your CNPJ application process.
Complete CNPJ Application
Fill out the complete CNPJ application form with accurate business and partner information.
Submit and Receive CNPJ
Submit your application and receive your CNPJ certificate, typically on the same day for most business types.
Required Documents
Ensure you have all necessary documentation prepared before starting your CNPJ application to avoid delays in the process.
Processing Timeline
Same Day Processing
Most CNPJ applications are processed immediately when all documents are correct.
Prerequisite: Company Registration
Commercial registry must be completed first (5-15 business days).
No Application Fee
CNPJ application is free when submitted through government portal.
Tax Regime Selection
Choose the right tax regime during your CNPJ application to optimize your tax burden and compliance requirements.
Simples Nacional
Simplified tax regime for small businesses
Eligibility:
Revenue up to R$ 4.8 million/year
Key Benefits:
- Single monthly payment
- Reduced tax rates
- Simplified bookkeeping
- Less bureaucracy
Tax Rates:
4% to 19.5% (varies by activity and revenue)
Lucro Presumido
Presumed profit taxation system
Eligibility:
Revenue up to R$ 78 million/year
Key Benefits:
- Quarterly tax payments
- Simplified profit calculation
- Predictable tax burden
- Less complex accounting
Tax Rates:
13.33% to 16.33% (varies by activity)
Lucro Real
Real profit taxation based on actual results
Eligibility:
Any revenue level (mandatory >R$ 78M)
Key Benefits:
- Tax based on real profit
- Loss compensation allowed
- More accurate taxation
- Better for loss periods
Tax Rates:
15% to 25% (plus additional taxes)
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