a cpf enters the individuals and their brazilian assets, which are subject to public registration onto the taxpayer registry - this is a requirement for anyone who intends to buy property anywhere in brazil.

registration for a cpf can be done within brazil, or in a brazilian consulate outside of the country - it is usually processed within two months if done from abroad, in rio de janeiro it takes one week. 

the cpf is an extremely important document - easily attained and necessary to make major purchases, as well as apply for utilities services such as phone, electricity, and cable tv.