Find out how Internal Revenue Service is preparing a historic change to the National Register of Legal Entities (CNPJ) from January 2026. This transformation aims to modernize and ensure the continued efficiency of Brazil's company registration system by adopting a 14-position alphanumeric format.
Details of the new CNPJ alphanumeric format
The new CNPJ will remain the same size, but its internal characteristics will be reformulated:
- The first eight positions will be alphanumeric, combining letters and numbers to create the root of the CNPJ, identifying both the parent establishment and its branches.
- The next four positions will also be alphanumeric, indicating the order in which the establishment is registered within the root.
- The last two positions will remain numeric, functioning as check digits to guarantee the authenticity of the CNPJ.
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Need for modernization and expansion
The switch to the alphanumeric format is driven by the imminent exhaustion of numerical combinations in the current CNPJ format. With the continued growth of the economy and the increase in the number of companies, this new format offers virtually unlimited registration capacity, allowing the system to keep pace with the country's economic development for many years to come.
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Impact on companies
For companies, the transition will be gradual and transparent. Existing CNPJs will not be affected and will remain valid. Adaptation to the new registrations will begin in 2026, and the CLM Controller is ready to offer you all the support you need. Our specialized premium accounting team is ready to guide your company through this significant change.
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Preparing your company with CLM Controller
Keep up to date with the latest updates on the new alphanumeric CNPJ and ensure that your company is prepared for this evolution in the Brazilian business registration system. A CLM Controller is committed to offering customized accounting solutions to optimize your processes and ensure tax compliance. Visit our website for more information and find out how we can help your company prosper in the future.
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Main questions:
Why is the CNPJ changing to an alphanumeric format?
The change is necessary due to the exhaustion of the numerical combinations available in the current format. With economic growth and the increase in companies, the new alphanumeric format offers virtually unlimited registration capacity.
When will this change come into effect?
From January 2026, new CNPJ registrations will adopt the alphanumeric format. Existing CNPJs will not be changed and will remain valid.
How will the new alphanumeric CNPJ be structured?
The new CNPJ will have 14 positions: the first eight will be alphanumeric (letters and numbers), identifying the root of the CNPJ; the next four will also be alphanumeric, indicating the order of registration; the last two will be numeric, acting as check digits.
What are the benefits of the new format for companies?
The alphanumeric format increases security against counterfeiting, modernizes the company registration system by bringing it into line with international standards, and significantly expands registration capacity by avoiding running out of combinations.
How should companies prepare for this change?
Companies should start adapting their systems and processes to the new format, especially those that deal with CNPJ registration and administration. The IRS will provide support and guidance during the transition to ensure that it is smooth and effective.
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