Google 5 star rating
Trustpilot 5 star rating
3500 + Expert Advisors

3500

Expert Advisors

50 + Branch Offices

50

Branch Offices

Get Free Expert Consultation

Get Update on Get Update on Whatsapp Whatsapp

Company Registration in Brazil - An Overview

Are you planning for Company Registration in Brazil? If yes, you’ve made an excellent choice. You should seek professional assistance from experts like Corpbiz to simplify the process of setting up your business in Brazil.

Geographically, Brazil is strategically located between North and South America, making it a natural hub for trade and investment. In 2025, Brazil continues to stand out as one of the most promising destinations for global business expansion in Latin America.

With its large consumer market, strong industrial base, and strategic trade links, Brazil offers significant opportunities across various sectors such as manufacturing, agribusiness, e-commerce, technology, and services.

However, given Brazil’s diverse economic environment, businesses must carefully choose the right business structure that aligns with their goals for a smooth and successful registration.

At Corpbiz, we assist business enthusiasts who are interested in doing business in Brazil, ensuring a seamless company registration in Brazil and compliance process.

Company Registration in Brazil

Benefits of Company Formation in Brazil

The list of benefits of company formation in Brazil is as follows:

Advantages of Company Setup in Brazil
Sizable and Expanding Market

Sizable and Expanding Market

Brazil offers a steady and growing market; it is one of the 10 most populous countries in the world. The increasing middle class and rise of disposable income create strong demand for a variety of products and services, making Brazil an ideal destination for business setup.

Positive Geographical Features

Positive Geographical Features

Brazil’s diverse landscape and vast territory make it attractive for global investors. Agriculture, a vital sector, remains resilient even during global financial crises, offering significant opportunities for agribusiness.

Acceptance of Foreign Direct Investment

Acceptance of Foreign Direct Investment

Brazil has made remarkable progress in its business environment, attracting international investment. The government promotes foreign investment through tax incentives, simplified regulations, special free trade zones, and allows 100% foreign ownership.

Access to Global Markets

Access to Global Markets

Brazil’s strategic location in South America provides convenient commercial access across the continent. As a member of MERCOSUR and BRICS, Brazil is an attractive destination for business opportunities on a global scale.

Financial and Tax Incentives

Financial and Tax Incentives

The Brazilian government offers financial and tax incentives to stimulate economic growth, including special economic zones, free trade areas, exemptions from withholding tax, MERCOSUR benefits, and double taxation treaties.

Wealth and Natural Resources

Wealth and Natural Resources

Brazil is rich in resources such as petroleum, natural gas, minerals, and renewable energy. It ranks among the top nations for hydropower and exports agricultural commodities, offering significant opportunities for businesses in these sectors.

Excellent Infrastructure for Business

Excellent Infrastructure for Business

Brazil offers a well-developed infrastructure that supports trade. With one of the largest highway networks, extensive railways, and around 175 port facilities, logistics for import and export operations are highly convenient.

Business Structures for Company Registration in Brazil

The different types of Business structures for company registration in Brazil are mentioned below-

  • Limited Liability Company (LTDA)

    It is the most popular type of business structure for company registration in Brazil for foreigners. Due to its flexibility and lower complexity, it is the most preferred choice. It requires at least one shareholder, with a maximum of 20 shareholders. The liability of the shareholders is limited only to their contributions. It is suitable for both small and medium-sized enterprises.

  • Corporation (S.A. - Sociedade Anônima)

    A Sociedade Anônima (S.A.) is a type of business structure for company registration in Brazil, best suited for businesses that plan to raise capital through the stock market or operate on a large scale. To establish this structure, a minimum share capital of R$1,000,000 is required. The company must appoint a board of directors and hold regular shareholder meetings. Additionally, this type of corporation can be either public or private.

  • Individual Microentrepreneur (MEI)

    The Individual Microentrepreneur (MEI) is a business structure specifically designed for solo entrepreneurs with annual revenues under a specific threshold (currently, it is around BRL 81,000). It offers a simplified tax regime and fewer compliance requirements with personal liability. It is mostly preferred by low-risk businesses.

  • Branch Office

    Branch offices are typically set up by foreign companies to expand their business operations in Brazil. Establishing a branch requires prior government approval, and a legal representative residing in Brazil must be appointed. Additionally, branch offices are subject to the same taxation and regulatory obligations as local entities.

  • Joint Venture

    A joint venture is a form of Brazil business registration created through contractual or corporate arrangements between two or more parties. It is widely used in large-scale projects such as infrastructure, oil and gas, and technology. Foreign companies often form joint ventures with local businesses to achieve strategic growth and expand their operations in Brazil.

Eligibility Criteria for Brazil Company Registration Online

The eligibility criteria for Brazil company registration online are as follows:

  • The name of the company must be unique and not previously registered.
  • Both shareholders and directors must be legally capable of entering into contracts.
  • Additional licenses and permits are required depending on the type of business activity.
  • It is mandatory to have a registered office address in Brazil.
  • All documents (like Articles of Incorporation) must be in Portuguese and in compliance with Brazilian law.
  • The businesses must adhere to the Brazilian tax and accounting regulations.
Expand into Brazil
Documents Required for Company Incorporation in Brazil

Documents Required for Brazil Company Incorporation

The list of documents required for Brazil company incorporation is as follows:

  • Articles of Incorporation
  • CNPJ registration form
  • Passports or IDs of shareholders and directors
  • Application business license
  • Tax registration form
  • Address proof like a lease agreement, or a utility bill of the registered address
  • Industry licenses or permits (if applicable)
  • Bank statement or proof of funds

Process to Register a Business in Brazil

The step-by-step process to register a business in Brazil is as follows:

Process to Register a Business in Brazil

Drafting the Company Bylaws

Firstly, the applicant company needs to draft the company bylaws (Contrato Social), defining the structure of the ownership, operational guidelines, and objectives of the company. These bylaws must be in compliance with the Brazilian legislation.

Registering with Commercial Registry

Once the bylaws are finalised, you will have to register your company with the Commercial Registry (Junta Comercial) as per your business location. This provides legal recognition to your business entity.

Obtaining a CNPJ Number

You need to apply for a CNPJ (Cadastro Nacional da Pessoa Juridica) from the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service. It is the company’s tax identification number, necessary for conducting business activities.

Local Permits & Licensing

Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain various local permits and licenses. Conduct thorough research on the specific regulations applicable to your business sector and location to ensure compliance.

Set Up a Bank Account

To run business transactions, opening a bank account in Brazil is essential. This ensures transparency in financial practices. You will need the CNPJ, bylaws, and identification documents of stakeholders to complete this process.

Capital Requirements

Certain business structures, like corporations, must comply with minimum capital requirements. Understanding these early helps with financial planning and ensures smooth registration, as authorities will review this during the process.

Registering for Taxes

Once you have received the CNPJ, register with the federal, state, and municipal tax authorities. Different business structures are subject to different tax rates and obligations, so understanding the taxation landscape is crucial.

Start Your Brazil Company Today

Taxes Applicable to Company Formation in Brazil

The list of taxes applicable to company formation in Brazil is as follows:

  • Corporate Income Tax (IRPJ), which is 15% on net income
  • Social Contribution on Net Profit (CSLL), which is 9%
  • Value Added Tax (ICMS), which is 18% on average, varies from state to state
  • Payroll Tax (INSS), which is 20% on salaries
  • Property Tax (IPTU) varies
  • Social Security Tax (FGTS), which is 8% on salaries

Requirements Post Business Registration in Brazil

The list of essential requirements post business registration in Brazil is as follows:

  • You must open a corporate bank account to manage all the business transactions.
  • You should register your employees with INSS (social security) and FGTS (severance fund).
  • Monthly and annual tax declarations need to be filed with the Receita Federal.
  • You should maintain accounting records and submit annual financial statements.
  • Don’t forget to renew local operating permits and ensure that you meet the ongoing labour compliance requirements.

Why Trust Corpbiz for Company Registration in Brazil?

You may choose Corpbiz for company registration in Brazil for the following reasons:

Reasons to Trust Corpbiz for Company Registration in Brazil

10+ Years of Excellence

Our team of professionals brings over a decade of expertise in handling global company registrations, including compliance and legal structuring.

Consulting for Company Formation

Consulting for Business Structure

We provide expert advice on choosing the right entity type in Brazil, whether Ltda, S.A., or a branch office, based on your business goals.

Assistance in Documentation

Assistance in Documentation

We help prepare, review, and submit all necessary documents for CNPJ registration and approvals with Brazilian authorities.

Evaluation & Audit

Evaluation & Audit

Our experts ensure that your company complies with Brazilian corporate, tax, and labour laws from the start.

Transparency and Authenticity

Transparency and Authenticity

We ensure complete transparency in pricing, procedures, and compliance timelines, so you face no hidden challenges.

Smooth Entry into the Australian Market

Smooth Entry in the Brazilian Market

We assist you in setting up quickly without unnecessary bureaucratic delays, helping your business start operations seamlessly.

Tech-Driven Solutions

Tech-Driven Solutions

Our digital process management tools make registration faster, efficient, and hassle-free.

Time and Cost Effective

Post-Registration Compliances

Our team ensures you remain compliant with Brazilian taxation, labour regulations, and corporate filings after incorporation.

Expedited Registration Process

Expedited Registration Process

We streamline the process to reduce delays and complete your company registration in the shortest time possible.

Strong Ties with Regulatory Bodies

Strong Ties with Government Bodies

Our close working relationship with Brazilian legal and government authorities helps simplify the approval process.

24/7 Client Assistance

24/7 Client Assistance

We offer round-the-clock support for Brazil company registration services, ensuring your queries are resolved promptly and guiding you through every stage of the registration process.

FAQs on Company Registration in Brazil

FAQs on Company Registration in Brazil

Yes, both foreign nationals and entities can own 100% of a Brazilian company, provided a legal representative in Brazil is appointed.

LTDA is a type of business structure mostly used by small to medium-sized businesses, whereas S.A. is a type of structure for company registration in Brazil that is ideal for large corporations and those who are looking to go public in future.

No, physical presence is not mandatory to register business in Brazil since it can be done through a Power of Attorney. Though appointing a local representative is necessary.

The time taken to register company in Brazil online is about 4 to 8 weeks depending upon the type of business structure, documentation and the state which the business is registered.

The list of ongoing compliance for company in Brazil are accounting, tax reporting, labor laws, and annual filings. Meanwhile, many companies appoint local accountants for this purpose.

Yes, you can open a bank account for your company once the registration in Brazil for foreigners is granted and you have a CNPJ. Accordingly, you can open a corporate bank account also some bank may require in-person verification.

Foreign company registration in Brazil, like any company in Brazil, pays corporate income tax, social contributions and municipal or state taxes.

Yes, there are a few industries that require specific approvals from the concerned authority in Brazil after obtaining company registration. This includes industries like energy, finance, healthcare, agribusiness, etc.

Yes, you need to appoint a local representative to register the company online in Brazil, especially for foreign-owned entities.

The list of post-incorporation compliance and obligations after obtaining company registration in Brazil is as follows:
  • The registered company must file regular tax returns to stay relevant and avoid penalties
  • Must organise time to time, an annual general meeting (AGM) to discuss company affairs
  • The company should also comply with the labour laws and regulations if employees are hired.

Authors

Written by Aarya Pokharel. Last updated on Nov 11 2025, 09:55 PM

Aarya Pokharel brings 3 years of solid experience in legal research and compliance. Her expertise spans tax filing, secretarial compliances, and advisory services, with a strong focus on delivering precise legal research and strategic advisory support.

Testimonials

Updated testimonials from our customers

Other similar services

Request a call back