Documentation
Documentation is a crucial step to ensure the rights and safety of refugees in Brazil.
In addition to allowing legal residence in the country, having the proper documents opens doors to access essential services, such as healthcare, education, and formal employment.
This process is more than just bureaucracy: it is an important step in rebuilding life with dignity and stability.
cpf
The CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Física) is a crucial document for anyone who wants to work, have a bank account, or use services in Brazil.
Where to Apply
Federal Revenue Service Agencies
It may be necessary to make an online appointment in advance through the Receita Federal's in-person service scheduling app, available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
Correios, Banco do Brasil, or Caixa Econômica Federal
Some agencies offer the issuance service, so you can go to the nearest agency and ask for guidance on this service. A small fee may be charged for this service, so be aware of that.
Online Request
It is also possible to request the CPF directly on the Receita Federal website by filling out a form with your information. It is important to have an active email to receive the CPF number and the digital card.
Send a request to the email address atendimentorfb.08@rfb.gov.br, including the required necessary documentation.
Required Documents
Identity document, such as the Refugee Protocol or the RNE (National Foreigner Registry).
Proof of residence in Brazil
Example: water, electricity, or phone bill, shelter or support organization declaration.
Birth certificate, and, if married or with children, proof of marital status (marriage certificate or birth certificates of dependents).
crnm
The National Migration Registration Card (CRNM) is an official identification document for foreigners who wish to reside in Brazil, either temporarily or permanently. The CRNM is issued by the Federal Police and replaces the old Foreign Identity Card (CIE).
If your refugee status has already been recognized, you now have the right to an indefinite residence permit in Brazil.
Here’s how to secure your new status.
CHECK the step-by-step guide on how to apply
1
Select the Documents
Refugee application protocol
Identification document
Proof of address
Example: electricity or water bill, or a rental contract in your name, or in the name of another person who lives at the same address.
Recent 3x4 photo (can be scanned in JPEG format).
Proof of CPF registration
(if the number is not included in the refugee protocol).
2
Access the Gov.br platform
Log in or create an account with your CPF and password.
If you don’t have an account, select "Create account" and follow the instructions.
If you encounter difficulties in creating the account, visit a support unit or ask for assistance at the Federal Police.
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Within the Gov.br website, go to "Services" or use the search bar and type "Carteira de Registro Nacional Migratório." Then, select the option corresponding to the CRNM for refugee applicants.
3
Fill out the online form
Add your personal information such as: name, date of birth, nationality, refugee protocol number, address, and contact phone number.
Attach the requested documents (in PDF or JPEG format, depending on the field) and submit!
4
Generate the Union Payment Guide (GRU)
After filling out the form, you will need to generate the GRU for the payment of the CRNM issuance fee.
5
Track the status of your request
After submission, you will receive a protocol number. Use this number to track the progress on the Federal Police portal or on the Gov.br platform.
In some cases, you will be called to attend a Federal Police unit for an in-person verification of your documents. Stay alert to the email or phone number you registered to receive appointment notifications.
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6
Attendance at the Federal Police
On the scheduled date and time, go to the nearest Federal Police unit, bringing all the required original documents and copies, as specified on the PF website.
At the Federal Police, you will complete the biometric registration and submit all the required documents. This process is essential for the issuance of the CRNM.
6
Collection of the CRNM
After the request is approved, you will be informed about the date and location to collect the physical document. The card is usually picked up at the Federal Police unit nearest to your residence.
CTPS
In Brazil, refugee applicants are entitled to a Work Card (CTPS), and with it, they can work legally in the country, with the same rights as any other Brazilian worker.
Digital Work Card
(Carteira de Trabalho Digital)
Since 2019, the Digital Work Card (Carteira de Trabalho Digital) has replaced the old physical version of the CTPS, simplifying access to labor information for Brazilians. In this digital version, all professional data of workers governed by the CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws) are recorded, such as the date of hiring, duration of the employment relationship, salary, unemployment insurance and PIS payments, vacation periods, and the date of termination of employment.
CHECK the step-by-step guide on how to apply
1
Register on the Government portal.
2
Download the Digital Work Card (CTPS Digital) app.
To complete the process on your mobile phone, simply download the Digital Work Card app from Google Play or the Apple Store.
If the worker does not have access to a mobile phone, it is possible to access the Digital Work Card through the Emprega Brasil Portal, using the login and password registered on Gov.br.
3
Enter your personal information
Fill in your information such as: CPF, name, date of birth, mother’s name, and select the option "I am not Brazilian."
4
Answer the questionnaire
You will be directed to answer five questions about your professional and social security history. After completing the questionnaire, you will receive a temporary password that must be changed upon your first access to the Emprega Brasil Portal or the app.