Opening a company in Brazil as a foreigner involves navigating a series of legal, tax, and regulatory steps.
These include obtaining a CPF (Brazilian Tax ID), appointing a local legal representative, and complying with corporate registration and reporting requirements. Each stage demands careful planning and a clear understanding of Brazilian law.
Professional legal guidance is essential to avoid delays, ensure full compliance, and structure your business effectively from day one.
Can a foreigner open a company in Brazil?
Yes, foreign individuals and companies can legally open a business in Brazil — with 100% ownership and no requirement for a Brazilian partner. Brazil offers immense opportunities, but success starts with meeting key legal requirements.
To open a company in Brazil, you must:
- Appoint a legal representative who resides in Brazil;
- Provide apostilled corporate documents, translated by a sworn translator (tradução juramentada), and properly registered in Brazil;
- Have a registered business address in the country;
- Ensure all shareholders and directors obtain a CPF.
These steps are mandatory and can be complex without local legal support.
At Martin Law, we specialize in helping foreign investors navigate the process smoothly.
Our attorneys can serve as your official legal representative in Brazil, handle all document requirements, and guide you through every stage of the incorporation process — efficiently and in full compliance with Brazilian law.
Whether you’re starting a new venture or expanding your global presence, our team ensures that opening a company in Brazil is secure, strategic, and successful.
Do you need more information about Opening a company in Brazil?
Martin Law can help you! Contact us today clicking here!
Or you can contact our specialists directly:
Phone:
+1 (661) 336-9606
+55 (31) 3223-6588
Email:
Opening a company in Brazil: Required Steps
Opening a company in Brazil involves several legal and bureaucratic steps — but with the right guidance, the process can be smooth and efficient.
Here’s a clear roadmap to follow:
- Check company name availability with the State Commercial Registry (Junta Comercial).
- Appoint a legal representative who resides in Brazil — a mandatory requirement for foreign partners.
- Draft and register the Articles of Incorporation (Contrato Social) with the relevant authorities.
- Obtain the CNPJ, the official tax ID number, from the Brazilian Federal Revenue (Receita Federal).
- Register with state and municipal tax authorities to ensure your business is fully compliant.
- Apply for necessary licenses, including Fire Department certification and the Municipal Operation License (Alvará de Funcionamento).
- Register with Social Security (INSS) to comply with labor and employee benefit regulations.
- Activate electronic invoicing (Nota Fiscal) by registering your company with the tax authorities’ digital system.
- Open a business bank account in Brazil, which requires your company to be fully registered and tax compliant.
Each step must be followed precisely to avoid costly delays or legal issues.
At Martin Law, we assist international entrepreneurs and companies at every stage of opening a company in Brazil. Our team handles all legal filings, documentation, and compliance — so you can focus on growing your business.
Can the process be done remotely?
One of the most common questions from foreign entrepreneurs is whether they need to travel to Brazil to start their business. The good news? Opening a company in Brazil can be done entirely remotely.
Foreign individuals or companies can register a Brazilian business without setting foot in the country. All that’s required is granting Power of Attorney to a licensed legal representative in Brazil — a service our firm provides.
With this authorization, we can handle every stage of the process on your behalf, from preparing incorporation documents to securing tax registration and municipal licensing.
You can also manage your company from abroad. While the legal administrator (company director) may reside outside of Brazil, you must appoint a resident legal representative to act on your behalf for administrative, tax, and regulatory matters.
This is not only mandatory under Brazilian law, but also essential for smooth day-to-day operations.
At Martin Law, we specialize in helping international clients navigate the legal complexities of opening a company in Brazil, offering full-service support remotely.
From start to finish, we ensure your business is compliant, legally protected, and ready to operate — without you ever needing to travel.
Let us be your local presence in Brazil while you focus on global growth.
Do you need more help with Opening a company in Brazil?
Martin Law can help you! Contact us today clicking here!
Or you can contact our specialists directly:
Phone:
+1 (661) 336-9606
+55 (31) 3223-6588
Email:
What are the benefits of opening a company in Brazil?
Opening a company in Brazil offers strategic advantages for foreign investors looking to expand in Latin America’s largest economy.
With over 210 million people and a diversified consumer base, Brazil presents vast opportunities across sectors like agribusiness, technology, renewable energy, logistics, and real estate.
One of the main benefits is full foreign ownership — foreign individuals and companies can own 100% of a Brazilian business without the need for a local partner.
The country also has a growing startup ecosystem, attractive government incentives in key industries, and access to MERCOSUR, opening doors to broader South American markets.
Brazil’s geographic position is another key advantage, offering logistical access to both the Atlantic and interior markets of South America. The country also boasts a skilled workforce and a maturing digital infrastructure.
With the right legal guidance, the process of opening a company in Brazil can be straightforward and remote.
At Martin Law, we assist with every step — from corporate structuring and tax compliance to ongoing legal representation — helping you unlock Brazil’s full business potential.
Ready to go global? Let Brazil be your next strategic move.
Conclusion
Opening a company in Brazil is a strategic move that requires local expertise. From corporate structuring to tax compliance and regulatory filings, every step involves strict legal procedures.
Working with a qualified Brazilian law firm not only guarantees efficiency but also helps avoid costly mistakes.
Martin Law can help you! Contact us today clicking here!
Or you can contact our specialists directly:
Phone:
+1 (661) 336-9606
+55 (31) 3223-6588
Email:
FAQs About opening a company in Brazil
Can I register a company in Brazil online?
Partially. While some processes are digital, key stages still require physical documentation, translations, and official filings.
What is the minimum investment to open a company in Brazil?
There is no fixed minimum capital, but we recommend defining one aligned with the business goals and tax regime.
Is it necessary to open a bank account in Brazil?
Yes. It’s mandatory for operational and tax purposes. We assist in opening accounts with major Brazilian banks.
How long does it take to register a company?
On average, 4 to 6 weeks depending on the readiness of documents and the type of business activity.
Do I need a visa to open a business in Brazil?
Not necessarily. You can open a company without entering Brazil, but for local operations or residence, a specific visa may be required
