Hi,
we have discovered a hidden gem amongst the terrible indifferent bank service and massive queues in JP. If you want to open a bank account you should go to the new Bradesco about 100m from Mag Shopping, in the direction of Manaira shopping. I cannot recommend them highly enough, and it will save you days and days of knock-backs and standing in lines.
Paperwork you will need ............ easy and quick if you already have your RNE card, need your proofs of add, CPF etc, the normal stuff.
If you are still waiting for your actual RNE card, but have made the application at the Policia Federal and have your little temporary slip of paper................ you are still in luck. Where all the other banks said blankly - no card, no account - I went to the Policia Federal, explained the difficulty whereupon they produced a declaration for me, and returned to Bradesco with it. 20 Minutes later they had faxed it all off to head office and we had the account open !
You will need, 2 proofs of add, PASSPORT, little RNE temporary slip, declaration ( they name it to the bank to say u are genuine and waiting for your actual card) and of course a smile .............
Very friendly people, a small and very organised team in there.
Worth trying them for car insurance too, it was loads cheaper than anywhere else.
OK, off to walk on the beach now !
jon