The Central Bank of Brazil announced new rules that expand access to foreign currency accounts in the country. The change was established by BCB Resolution No. 575, dated June 18, 2026, and is part of the regulations under the Legal Framework for Foreign Exchange, with the aim of facilitating international transactions, reducing costs, and modernizing the foreign exchange market. The rules will take effect on October 1, 2026, which is the deadline for banks and other authorized institutions to adapt their systems.
The change does not alter the ban on the use of foreign currencies for everyday payments in Brazil, nor does it affect the exchange rate. Currently, only specific groups are allowed to maintain this type of account, such as financial institutions, embassies, and companies in certain sectors. Under the new rules, exporting companies, companies with loans or debts incurred abroad, companies with foreign investor participation, and foreign legal entities conducting credit operations or direct investments in the country will also be eligible.
Accordingly, subsidiaries of foreign companies and Brazilian companies that obtain loans from foreign banks to finance machinery and equipment will be able to maintain accounts in foreign currency. This is particularly relevant for exchange rate risk management. For example, companies that have debts in foreign currency, whether arising from the purchase of equipment from the parent company or even from loans from the parent company or a foreign financial institution, can maintain a reserve in Brazil in the same currency to protect themselves from exchange rate fluctuations. This can facilitate taking out loans abroad, where interest rates are lower.
It should be noted, however, that with respect to exporting companies, only amounts received from abroad may be maintained in foreign currency. Conversion into reais must be carried out through the execution of a foreign exchange contract.
The use of these accounts will also be subject to specific rules and controls set by the Central Bank. In the case of exporting companies, the funds must be linked to export activity and to other transactions permitted under existing regulations. As for foreign credit operations and foreign investment, the requirements already applied by the Central Bank to this type of transaction remain in effect.
