Start Your Business in Brazil

Navigate CNPJ registration, tax regimes, and compliance. In English.

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Tell us about your situation

OAB/SP Licensed Attorneys

  • We respond within 24 hours
  • English & Portuguese
700+
Successful Cases
15+
Years of Experience
1st
American to Pass the OAB
LL.M.
USC Law School

From Concept to CNPJ

Entity Selection

We evaluate your goals and recommend the right corporate structure — LTDA, EIRELI, S.A., or branch office.

CNPJ Registration

We handle the full registration process with the Junta Comercial, Receita Federal, and municipal agencies.

Tax Regime Setup

Guidance on Simples Nacional, Lucro Presumido, or Lucro Real — selecting the regime that fits your business.

Ongoing Compliance

Stay compliant with Brazilian corporate obligations — annual filings, tax declarations, and regulatory updates.

Meet Your Legal Team

Zachariah Zagol — Founding Partner

Zachariah Zagol

Founding Partner — OAB/SP

The first American to pass Brazil's Bar Exam. LL.M. from USC. Over 15 years helping foreigners navigate Brazilian law.

Karina Peres Silverio — Partner

Karina Peres Silverio

Partner — OAB/SP 331.050

Specialist in immigration, real estate, and international law. Fluent in English and Portuguese.

"Setting up a company in Brazil seemed impossibly bureaucratic. ZS Advogados handled everything — from entity selection to the CNPJ — and explained each step in plain English."
— Foreign Entrepreneur | Company Formation

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of business entities exist in Brazil?
The most common structures are LTDA (limited liability company, similar to an LLC), EIRELI (single-member limited entity), S.A. (corporation), and branch offices of foreign companies. Each has different capital requirements, governance rules, and tax implications. We help you choose the structure that matches your goals.
How long does it take to register a company?
A straightforward LTDA registration typically takes 30-60 days, including Junta Comercial approval, CNPJ issuance, state and municipal registrations, and bank account setup. More complex structures like S.A. or branch offices may take longer.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Brazilian company?
Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of most types of Brazilian companies. However, you will need a Brazilian resident to serve as the legal administrator (similar to a registered agent). This can be an employee, partner, or designated representative.
How do I choose the right tax regime?
Brazil has three main tax regimes: Simples Nacional (simplified, for smaller businesses), Lucro Presumido (presumed profit), and Lucro Real (actual profit). The right choice depends on your revenue, industry, and operating costs. We analyze your projections and recommend the most efficient option.
Do I need a Brazilian resident as a partner?
You do not need a Brazilian partner, but you do need a resident administrator — someone with a Brazilian CPF and address who can represent the company for legal purposes. This person does not need to be a shareholder. We can help arrange this requirement.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Reach out to our team and let us know how we can help.