Buying property in the U.S. creates two separate obligations in Brazil: the income tax (Receita Federal) and, depending on the amount, the Brazilian Capital Abroad Declaration (CBE), filed with the Central Bank of Brazil. Many people forget the second one.
The annual CBE is mandatory for anyone who, on December 31, holds US$ 1 million or more in assets abroad (adding up property, accounts, and investments). Below that, you are exempt from the CBE, but the property still goes on your income tax return.
What the CBE is
It is a Central Bank census of Brazilians' assets abroad. It exists for statistics and capital control. It does not create tax by itself, but it is mandatory and carries a fine when ignored.
Who must file
Annual: anyone with US$ 1 million or more abroad on December 31. Quarterly: anyone with US$ 100 million or more, on the March, June, and September base dates. Most investors only fall under the annual filing, or none, if below the threshold.
How and where to file
The declaration is filed online, on the Central Bank website, within the window announced each year (the annual base date is December 31). You report the asset type (property), country, value, and other details.
CBE is not income tax
They are separate obligations, at different agencies. The property always goes on the income tax return (see how to declare U.S. property on your income tax); the CBE only applies once you cross the US$ 1 million threshold.
What if I do not file?
Missing or late CBE filing can trigger a fine from the Central Bank. Since the cost of compliance is low, filing on time is always the safer choice.
Sources
Buldora analysis based on an official Brazilian source: Banco Central do Brasil (CBE Declaration). Informational only; not legal, tax, or investment advice. Confirm current deadlines and thresholds with the Central Bank.
This article is part of the complete guide How to Buy Property in Florida as a Brazilian.
