Key Highlights
- Resolution No. 561/2026 from Brazil’s Central Bank mandates transaction code “34045” for cross-border online gambling payments effective October 1, 2026
- Cross-border eFX transactions lacking e-commerce integration face a maximum limit of $10,000 USD
- Cryptocurrency and virtual assets are prohibited for eFX operator settlements with international partners
- Banks and financial entities must maintain transaction documentation for a minimum decade and provide monthly Central Bank submissions
- eFX providers face an October 30, 2026 registration deadline, with authorization required by May 2027 or face operational shutdown
Brazil’s monetary authority has unveiled Resolution No. 561/2026, establishing comprehensive guidelines for cross-border payment services designated as eFX. This regulatory framework introduces a specific identifier for gambling-related international transfers and implements stringent payment processing limitations.
Effective October 1, 2026, every international financial transfer associated with online wagering must include the classification code “34045.” This measure aims to enhance monitoring capabilities for capital movements within Brazil’s expanding digital gambling sector.
The designated code exclusively addresses international payment flows connected to betting operations. This amendment modifies Annex V within the previously established Resolution No. 277/2022.
eFX Providers Face Transaction Ceilings and Virtual Currency Prohibition
The regulatory framework establishes a $10,000 USD maximum for eFX transactions processed outside e-commerce platform integrations. This identical threshold applies equally to transfers involving financial market activities.
Among the regulation’s most significant provisions is the complete prohibition of digital currencies in eFX operations. Service providers are barred from utilizing cryptocurrency for settlements with international business partners.
Alternatively, financial exchanges between eFX providers and overseas entities must occur through traditional foreign currency transactions or via Brazilian reais maintained in non-resident banking accounts. All transferred capital must originate from authenticated user accounts.
Permissible payment methods are also restricted. Transfers may proceed through boleto systems or via limited payment vehicles capped at BRL 1,000. These instruments cannot be reloaded once exhausted.
The monetary authority additionally prohibits providers from netting incoming against outgoing transfers. Every transaction requires individual processing.
These provisions create multiple compliance obligations for enterprises operating within the international payments ecosystem. Companies processing gambling-related transfers will encounter heightened regulatory oversight.
Compliance Deadlines and Documentation Standards Impose Strict Timelines
eFX service providers must complete registration for this payment category by October 30, 2026. Organizations lacking current operational authorization must secure appropriate licensing before May 2027 concludes.
Institutions missing these regulatory deadlines must cease all eFX service provision. The resolution specifies no extension periods beyond these established dates.
Regarding compliance reporting, financial institutions conducting foreign currency operations or administering client accounts must deliver monthly transaction summaries. These submissions must reach the Central Bank before the 10th day of each subsequent month.
The resolution mandates institutions preserve comprehensive transaction records for no less than ten years. This requirement supports prospective auditing procedures and regulatory enforcement initiatives.
The framework establishes precise designations throughout the payment ecosystem, including “user sender,” “user recipient,” and “foreign counterparty.” These classifications aim to establish clear accountability across transaction workflows.
All providers and associated payment partners must enhance their reporting infrastructure to align with Brazil’s foreign exchange monitoring architecture. These modifications impact numerous organizations, spanning traditional banks through fintech innovators.
This resolution arrives as Brazil advances its regulatory structure governing online gambling operations. The nation authorized regulated sports wagering in 2024 and has progressively strengthened payment and licensing requirements thereafter.
Brazil’s online gambling market has experienced substantial expansion, prompting regulators to address vulnerabilities in financial supervision. The revised eFX regulations became enforceable upon Resolution No. 561/2026’s publication on May 5, 2026.
