Land lines in São Paulo are provided by two companies: Telefônica and Embratel. They offer packages for local and long-distance domestic and international calls, as well as other services such as broadband Internet links and cable TV, either as individual services or as packages.

To get connected to a land line service call the company’s customer service line (found through the company website). You’ll need to have on hand your post code and the house or apartment number, your Individual Taxpayer’s Number, and will need to produce both a proof of identity and a proof of residence.

After conducting a credit check Embratel should connect you to the phone line within 10 days. Embratel sales outlets can also be found in the high street or in shopping centres. In the case of Telefônica, once they have checked that they have land lines available in your area a technician will visit within three to five working days to install the line.