Can Foreigners Get an EIN Without SSN?
Yes. Non-US residents can absolutely get an EIN without having a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
The IRS provides EINs to foreign nationals who:
- Own US-based businesses
- Have US rental property
- Need to file US tax returns
- Work with US companies that require a tax ID
The catch: You can't use the IRS online application. You must apply via fax or mail.
Why the Online System Doesn't Work
The IRS online EIN application requires either an SSN or ITIN. If you enter "none" or leave it blank, the system rejects your application.
This isn't discrimination - it's just how their system was built. The workaround is the fax process.
The Process: Getting an EIN as a Foreign National
Option 1: Third Party Designee (Recommended)
The fastest and most reliable method is using a Third Party Designee - someone authorized to apply on your behalf.
How it works:
- You provide your information and sign an authorization
- The designee prepares IRS Form SS-4
- The designee faxes the application to the IRS
- The IRS faxes back the EIN
- You receive your EIN
Timeline: 4-7 business days
This is what we do. We act as your Third Party Designee, handling the entire process.
Option 2: Apply Directly via Fax
You can fax your own application to the IRS.
Process:
- Complete Form SS-4
- Leave the SSN field blank (or write "None - Foreign")
- Fax to IRS: (855) 641-6935
- Wait 4-7 business days
- IRS faxes back your EIN
Challenges:
- You need a US fax number to receive the response
- The IRS may call with questions (during US business hours)
- Rejection means starting over
Option 3: Apply via Mail
The slowest option, but it works.
Process:
- Complete Form SS-4
- Mail to: Internal Revenue Service Attn: EIN Operation Cincinnati, OH 45999
- Wait 4-6 weeks
- Receive EIN via mail
Not recommended unless fax isn't an option.
What Information You'll Need
To apply for an EIN as a foreign national:
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal name | As shown on passport |
| Business name | Name of your US entity |
| Business address | Must be a US address |
| Entity type | LLC, Corporation, etc. |
| Passport/ID | Copy may be requested |
| Reason for EIN | Business, banking, etc. |
Important: You need a US address for your business. This can be:
- A registered agent's address
- A US partner's address
- A virtual office address
It cannot be a PO Box for most entity types.
Timeline Comparison
| Method | Timeline | Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| Online (with SSN) | Immediate | High |
| Fax (Third Party Designee) | 4-7 business days | High |
| Fax (Self) | 4-7 business days | Medium |
| 4-6 weeks | Medium |
Common Reasons Foreigners Need an EIN
US LLC for Business
Many foreign entrepreneurs form US LLCs (often in Delaware or Wyoming) for:
- Accepting payments from US clients
- Using US payment processors (Stripe, PayPal)
- Opening US bank accounts
- Establishing US business presence
EIN is required for multi-member LLCs, and practically required for banking.
Amazon/eBay Selling
Non-US sellers on Amazon and eBay often need an EIN to:
- Properly report US-source income
- Work with US suppliers
- Establish business credibility
US Real Estate Investment
Foreign investors in US property need an EIN for:
- Rental income reporting
- FIRPTA withholding
- Property tax purposes
US-Based Clients
If you work with US companies as a contractor, they may request a tax ID for their 1099 reporting. An EIN (or ITIN) satisfies this requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ITIN instead?
ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is for individuals. EIN is for businesses.
- If you're conducting business through an entity (LLC, Corp), you need an EIN
- If you're earning income personally (individual freelancing), you may need an ITIN
- Many foreign business owners need both
Can I apply with my passport number?
The passport number goes on Form SS-4 where it asks for "Foreign identification." It doesn't replace the need for the fax process, but it helps identify you.
What if the IRS rejects my application?
Common rejection reasons:
- Name mismatch
- Missing information
- Invalid address
With a Third Party Designee, we handle any rejections and resubmissions for you.
How long is my EIN valid?
Forever. Once issued, your EIN never expires. You only need a new one if your entity structure changes significantly.
Get Your Foreign EIN
We specialize in helping non-US residents get their EIN. Our service includes:
- Complete Form SS-4 preparation
- Third Party Designee authorization
- IRS fax submission
- Follow-up if needed
- Your EIN delivered via email
Timeline: 4-7 business days