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INTERNATIONAL VAT GUIDE

Last Updated: December 6, 2024

VAT Guide for Businesses with Customers in Brazil

This guide provides an overview of VAT (Value Added Tax) in Brazil, including ICMS, IPI, PIS, and COFINS, covering applicable rates, registration requirements, invoicing rules, compliance obligations, and filing deadlines. It is intended for businesses engaged in transactions within Brazil or with Brazilian customers.

Overview

Brazil’s tax system is unique, with VAT administered at both the federal and state levels. Key taxes include: • ICMS (State Tax): Applied to the sale of goods and provision of services. • IPI (Federal Tax): Imposed on industrial products. • ISS (Municipal Tax): Tax on Services • PIS and COFINS (Federal Contributions): Levied on revenue from goods and services.

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

VAT Number Format

CNPJ followed by 14 digits (e.g., 12.345.678/0001-95)

Fiscal Representation

Yes, required for non-resident businesses engaged in taxable transactions within Brazil.

Voluntary Registration

No, registration is mandatory for businesses involved in taxable activities.

VAT Rates in Brazil

Rate Description
17-25% Standard rate, varies by state, applicable to most goods and services. some products attract a lower/higher rate
4%;7% or 12% Interstate rate on imported goods. Dependent on origin and destination states.

VAT Registration in Brazil

Business Type VAT Registration Requirement
Resident Businesses Mandatory registration for all companies trading in Brazil
Non-Resident Businesses Mandatory registration for any taxable activity in Brazil

VAT Filing and Payment Deadlines

Frequency Filing Deadline Payment Deadline
Monthly By the 20th day of the following month. By the 20th day of the following month
Exact deadlines may vary depending on the specific tax, the taxpayer’s location and the sector or type of business

Digital Services VAT Information

VAT on Cross-Border Electronically Supplied Services No
VAT Rate on Digital Services N/A
Threshold for Registration N/A

Note:

Digital Services in Scope

Exemption

E-invoicing Requirements

Brazil mandates e-invoicing for domestic and international transactions via the SEFAZ (Secretaria da Fazenda) system. Here are the different types of electronic invoicing for various services:

  • Invoicing for goods – Nota Fiscal Eletrônica(NF-e)
  • Invoicing for services – Nota Fiscal de Serviós Eletrônica (NFS-e)
  • Invoicing for transport services – Conheçimento de Trasporte Eletrônico (CT-e)
  • Invoicing for freight services – MDF-e, SPED, REINF
  • Invoicing for electricity supply – NF3e

Digital Reporting Requirements

Brazil requires digital reporting for VAT-related transactions. Businesses must report transactional data via the Public Digital Bookkeeping System (SPED) to ensure compliance with tax regulations.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and may not cover all aspects of Brazilian VAT. Consult one of our tax professionals for specific guidance regarding your business.

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