Quote:
Originally Posted by robh
That isn't the problem at all, it is actually the banks that don't want to open accounts for foreigners. Something to do with reporting requirements being stricter.
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No Rob, that IS the problem. Because the reporting requirements are stricter if one doesn't have a permanent visa, hence, if you ask Banco Central if a foreigner can get a bank account without a RNE number (that is the number assigned once one gets a permanent visa), Banco Central will tell you, "YES", you can. But in practice, NO BANKS are today wanting to give foreigners without a permanent visa, or, RNE number an account, because of the stricter accounting requirements for these accounts in respect to money laundering. Banco do Brasil in Rio closed over 20,000 accounts over the last 12-16 months...all foreigners, all without RNE numbers.
And, allow me to say, that I know of people that have arranged for foreigners without permanent visa's to get bank accounts. Normally at smaller banks, Unibanco, Sudameris, etc. When the regional managers of these banks find out about these account holders without RNE numbers these accounts will be closed! And I know this for a fact. I have experience in it.