Buying Property in Brazil While Living Abroad

You can buy a condo in Brazil without leaving your home country. You will need a CPF, a way to sign remotely (an electronic signature accepted by the developer or a power of attorney), and a way to transfer funds through an authorized institution while keeping all receipts. The presentation of the development can be done via video call, scheduled in your local time zone.

By Lucas Baêta. Updated on October 4, 2026.

1. CPF

The Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas (CPF, Brazil's tax ID) is mandatory to buy property in Brazil. Non-residents can apply through Brazilian consulates or directly via Receita Federal (Brazil's tax authority) channels for overseas residents.

Run the numbersOff-plan property or fixed income: compare the same moneyCDI: 13.65% a year (Central Bank of Brazil, 01/10/2026)Open the calculator

2. Exploring the Development Remotely

During an online investment consultation, the specialist presents the price list, payment terms, floor plans, and construction progress via video call. Available times are displayed in both Brasília time and your local time zone. Whenever you visit Brazil, you can visit the show unit and construction site.

3. Signing the Contract

Many developers accept electronic signatures for the purchase and sale agreement. For the deed (escritura) and other official acts at the Real Estate Registry, you can grant power of attorney to a trusted person in Brazil. A power of attorney executed abroad can be processed at a Brazilian consulate or drafted by a local notary and legalized with an Hague Apostille, as Brazil is a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention.

4. Transferring Funds

Send funds through a bank or institution authorized to operate in foreign exchange, making sure to save all FX contracts and receipts. These documents prove the origin of funds, helping with property registration and tax reporting in both countries.

5. Taxes

In Brazil, you must pay the ITBI (the municipal property transfer tax) upon transfer. If you rent out the property, income tax applies to rental earnings received by non-residents. Overseas, tax residents must report foreign income according to local tax laws. Regulations vary based on your personal situation: consult a CPA or tax advisor in both jurisdictions before purchasing.

6. Time Zones

Depending on the time of year and your location, time differences relative to Brasília will vary. When booking a meeting, every time slot is displayed in both time zones.

Run the numbersITBI and registry fee calculatorITBI from 1.5% to 3% in cities with a published rateOpen the calculator

Frequently asked questions

Can foreigners buy property in Brazil?

Yes. Foreigners can purchase urban real estate in Brazil, such as condos, using a CPF. Legal restrictions mainly apply to rural properties and specific protected zones, such as international border areas. See can a foreigner buy property in Brazil.

Do I need to travel to Brazil to complete the purchase?

Not necessarily. With an electronic signature accepted by the developer and a power of attorney for notary and registry procedures, the entire transaction can be completed remotely.

What time does the online consultation take place?

Consultations take place during the slots made available by the specialist, displayed in both your local time zone and Brasília time during booking.