Mobile Service Registration in Brazil: real experience from chats
Short answer
You can obtain a Brazilian SIM card using only your passport, with Claro typically offering a simpler activation process than TIM. While a CPF is essential for many local services, some apps may allow you to proceed using passport details or alternative verification methods.
From real experience
Obtaining a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) in Brazil can take time, with estimated delivery times ranging from 3-7 business days, although some users report waiting up to 15 days or facing delays due to issues like missing photos.
Applying at the embassy might be an option. A CPF is essential for many services in Brazil. If you encounter issues registering for apps like Uber with a Russian phone number, consider using a non-Russian number (e.g., Kazakhstan) or creating a new account. It may also be possible to skip the CPF profile verification step and proceed with linking a payment card.
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A Brazilian phone number can be obtained without a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) by purchasing an eSIM or a physical SIM card at post offices (Correios), typically requiring only a passport for activation.
While some services like Bybit's Pix may prompt for a CPF, it's often possible to proceed using passport details. Be aware that using Pix via mobile internet might require a Brazilian mobile operator to function correctly, especially if you are in roaming.
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For receiving banking and verification SMS in Brazil, Claro is preferred over TIM for prepaid SIM cards (pré-pago).
TIM frequently mandates in-person verification with a passport at an official store to complete activation, whereas Claro's process is typically simpler.
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Information is requested regarding mobile service providers and connectivity tips for Brazil, as part of a broader post on mobile communication in Latin America.