hi Boris,

first of all, great web pages!!

I'm in same situation where I will need to send money to Brasil since I'm planning to buy apartment there.
I have worked in Brasil few years ago, thus I have CPF (which is probably not active anymore) but I dont have bank account in Brasil.
As I undertood even if I have CPF reactiveted (I hope it is possible?) I would not be able to open an account since I need a proof of fixed address (e.g. electricity bill in my name). At this point of time I'm only staying short periods in Brasil so I dont have proof of fixed address.
I'll try Bradesco & Itau as mentioned but I was also thinking about other option: Could I use my fiance's (she's Brazilian, we are not married) account ?
Thus we would send the money to her account and use it from there.
Would this have any tax or other implications? Thus can I donate large amount of money to other person ?

any help appreciated, thanks.

Hi Timo,

Thank you. Actually, we are a step beyond web pages... we are a Web Site with 300+ articles dedicated to practical aspects of buying and owning Real Estate in Brazil and still growing...

First of all, you can check your CPF status here:

http://www.receita.fazenda.gov.br/Aplicacoes/ATCTA/cpf/ConsultaPublica.asp

Make sure that it is either recoverable or is cancelled for sure, for it will be a highly illegal step to apply for a second CPF.

Presently, you will not be able to open a bank account. When you get married, BTW, congradulations! you should be able to open a joint-account with your wife.

If you wire the funds to her account now, she might be hit with the income tax.

IF you decide to donate funds, you will have to pay 4% tax (donīt quote me on this), plus you will very likely get screwed on the bank fees and the exchange rate.

You will need a very competent lawyer and accountant to handle your transaction.

Regards,
Boris