Brazil Issues First Alphanumeric CNPJ

Why Is Brazil Changing Its CNPJ System?

Brazil's Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal) has issued the country's first alphanumeric CNPJ — a landmark move that upgrades the national business registration system after decades of numeric-only identifiers. The change is designed to accommodate the growing number of businesses registering in Brazil, as the current all-numeric format was approaching its capacity limit.

What Exactly Is Changing?

Until now, a CNPJ (Cadastro Nacional da Pessoa Jurídica) consisted exclusively of numbers. The new alphanumeric format introduces letters alongside digits, dramatically expanding the number of unique identifiers available to registered businesses, companies, and legal entities across the country.

When Will My Business Get an Alphanumeric CNPJ?

The rollout will be gradual throughout 2026. In this initial phase, only a small number of businesses will receive the new format. The Receita Federal plans to expand issuance progressively over the course of the year, meaning most existing businesses will not see an immediate change to their current registration numbers.

What Does This Mean for Expats and Investors?

For foreign investors, expats opening businesses, and e-commerce sellers registering in Brazil, it is important to be aware that both numeric and alphanumeric CNPJs will coexist during the transition period. Systems that handle invoices, contracts, and tax documents should be updated to accept the new format to avoid processing errors.

• Existing CNPJs will not be changed or cancelled.
• New registrations from 2026 onward may receive alphanumeric codes.
• Banking and accounting software providers are expected to release updates.