Chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂) leaching under oxidizing conditions is generally characterized by slow dissolution rates due to the formation of passivation layers. The aim of this study is to develop a method that will allow the minimization of the passivation effect on the leaching of chalcopyrite and enhance copper recovery. To achieve this goal, the effect of parameters such as magnetite (Fe₃O₄) addition to the lixiviant Fe₂(SO₄)₃-H₂SO₄ during the leaching of CuFeS₂ at various pH (1.0, 1.5 and 1.8) and temperatures (25 and 50 °C) on copper dissolution rate overtime, was investigated. The results revealed that the solution pH, potential and temperature played a vital role during the dissolution. The highest recovery rate (70%) of Cu was achieved at pH 1.8, 50 °C and 400 mV from the mixed Fe₃O₄- CuFeS₂, whereas the recovery rate of Cu from CuFeS₂ in the absence of Fe₃O₄ was relatively low (48%). It was found that the addition of Fe₃O₄ allowed to maintain higher redox potential values. The addition of Fe₃O₄ also decreased the activation energy from 79.04 to 53.69 kJ/mol, suggesting that CuFeS₂ is easily oxidized in the presence of Fe₃O₄ through the formation of more soluble intermediates (bornite (Cu₅FeS₄) and chalcocite (Cu₂S)). Both dissolution processes were chemically controlled on the surface of the mineral. Furthermore, the mineralogical analysis of leaching residues showed that jarosite which is a candidate for surface passivation appeared in higher concentration in the absence of Fe₃O₄. Therefore, the addition of Fe₃O₄ reduced the formation of a passivation layer and enhanced the recovery rate of Cu.