What is the e-CPF used for?
To access e-CAC at Brazil's Federal Revenue Service, sign legally valid documents, log in to government portals and use systems that require ICP-Brasil identification.
Do freelancers need an e-CPF?
Usually yes, if you issue invoices through the city hall portal, access e-CAC or sign contracts digitally. If you have a registered company, consider the e-CNPJ as well.
How long does it take?
The certificate is issued immediately once validation is approved. Customers who buy in the morning with their documents in order are usually signing the same day.
Do I need to travel to Extrema?
No. Video validation serves all of Brazil. In-person service in Extrema, MG, is there for those who prefer it, for those who only have a digital ID, and for cases where the rules require being present.
Which should I choose: A1, A3 or Cloud?
If you issue invoices from software installed on a single computer, A1 does the job and costs less. If you sign from your phone, travel or use more than one computer, Cloud saves you headaches. An A3 token makes sense when some system requires physical media.