Using CPF for Digital Services: how it works in Brazil — first-hand
Short answer
A Brazilian CPF is required for full access to prepaid SIM cards, GOL airline bookings, and local digital services. To avoid tax issues or service restrictions, use local payment methods like PIX or open a native bank account, and utilize a Brazilian IP via VPN when booking flights.
From real experience
To top up a Vivo SIM card in Brazil, use the 'Vivo Easy' application.
Users can manage plans and top up without needing a physical store visit. Note that Brazilian digital services often require a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) for registration. For non-residents or foreign sailors, alternative payment methods or international credit cards within the app may be required, though CPF remains a common bottleneck for full functionality.
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Significant PIX transfers to a friend's Brazilian bank account can trigger tax inquiries.
It is not advisable to simply state that a friend transferred the money for cash withdrawal. To avoid potential tax issues for third parties, it is recommended to either use PIX directly for payments or open a local bank card in Brazil (e.g., NG.Cash, which some users report can be opened with a single CPF) to manage personal funds.
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Prepaid SIM cards in Brazil often require a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) for full functionality, including international calls and advanced account management.
Tourists buying SIMs without a personal CPF (often registered under a shop employee's ID) frequently face restricted plans that cannot be upgraded or configured for roaming/international access without an official tax ID update.
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Booking GOL airlines flights or managing baggage as a foreigner often requires a CPF (Brazilian tax ID).
If the website or app fails to work, use a VPN set to a Brazilian IP address (e.g., Psiphon) to access the booking and payment interface.