Federal Revenue Service announces alphanumeric CNPJ starting in 2026

New CNPJ format, which includes letters, will require systems to be adjusted accordingly

Following extensive analysis and technical studies, the Federal Revenue Service has announced changes to the National Register of Legal Entities (CNPJ), Brazil's primary identifying registry for companies, businesses, and qualified entrepreneurs. Starting in January 2026, the CNPJ code will adopt an alphanumeric format, incorporating both numbers and letters.

Details of this change are provided in Cocad/Suara/RFB Technical Note 49/2024. The primary goal of this measure is to address the imminent depletion of registration numbers. The new 14-character alphanumeric structure is intended to support economic growth and meet the increasing demand for new registrations.

New CNPJ

The alphanumeric CNPJ will maintain the same 14-character length as the current format:

• The first eight characters will consist of letters and numbers, identifying the root of the new number.
• The following four positions will also contain alphanumeric characters, representing the establishment's registration order.
• The last two positions will be numeric, corresponding to the verification digits.

Transition

According to the schedule disclosed, the project is already well underway, with implementation and production of the new CNPJ expected to begin in January 2026.

In the technical note, the Federal Revenue Service emphasizes the need to start processes for evolutionary maintenance, system revisions and adjustments to receive, record, process, and display the new alphanumeric CNPJ format.

What this change means for current CNPJs

Existing CNPJs (containing numeric characters only) will continue to be valid and recognized by computer systems. Therefore, those with CNPJs in the current numeric format will not need to change their registration.

Specialized support

Our experts at DPC constantly monitor legislative changes to assist companies of various sizes and segments in Brazil. To benefit from this support and ensure business compliance, reach out to us at: dpc@dpc.com.br.