Getting a SIM card and Phone/Data Plan

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Member since 16 January 2014

montrealerNew member23 January 2014 18:37:21

Hello All,

I will be in Rio in a few months. I was hoping someone could tell how to domesticate my phone -- ie, turn my Canadian smartphone into a local one by buying a SIM card and activating a data/phone plan for the duration of my three-week sojourn. I essentially want to be able to connect to the Internet on the go.

How easily can I accomplish this? Will I be able to get an account without a CPF? What should I expect to pay for such an account?

Thanks in advance.

Freezing in -25C temps,
Montrealer

usmc_mv ViP

Member since 14 June 2013

usmc_mvViP23 January 2014 18:59:42

1049

I would skip the CPF application process as it could take potentially two full days obtaining one. Instead, VIVO employees usually use there CPF to make the safe to foreigners. I have seen it countless times. Claro, TIM, and Oi forget it. Especially Claro.

VIVO ON is the plan you would want.

Www.vivoon.com.br

You'll get data, text, phone for about R$20

Keep in mind, calling non VIVO phones is like calling the North Pole. Very expensive.

I have a CPF sheet that I got on Amazon.com when I bought a SIM. If you need it, PM. I can't give you mine though.

James ViP

Member since 20 June 2010

Brazil & Canada Expert

JamesViP23 January 2014 20:21:56

11272

If you sweet talk the clerk who sells you the SIM card and let him/her know you're a tourist and don't have a CPF most of them will activate the card for you using their CPF. As a gesture of thanks you could slip them a R$10 note (US $5 as a tip and tell them to buy a coffee or beer on you) they'll appreciate your kindness although will not expect any kind of tip for helping.

Cheers,
William James Woodward - Brazil & Canada Expert, Expat-blog Team

montrealer New member

Member since 16 January 2014

montrealerNew member25 January 2014 11:27:04

Thank you to both of you for your insights.

Montrealer.

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