EIN Application for Foreigners

For foreigners looking to start a business in the United States, sell through Amazon FBA, or use payment systems like Stripe or PayPal, obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number) is essential. The EIN is a business identification number issued by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

In this guide, we’ll explain how foreigners can apply for an EIN, who is eligible, what to pay attention to when completing the form online, and what has changed in 2025 — step by step.

What Is an EIN Number?

The EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique tax identification number assigned by the IRS to every business operating in the United States.

Similar to a Tax Number in Turkey, the EIN acts as a company’s identity in all business and tax-related activities. For foreign entrepreneurs living outside the U.S., it is required for:

• Establishing a company in the U.S. (LLC or Corporation)

• Selling products on platforms like Amazon, Etsy, or Shopify

• Opening a U.S. business bank account

• Filing tax returns with the IRS

• Using payment providers such as Stripe, Payoneer, or PayPal

In short, if you earn official income in the U.S., obtaining an EIN is mandatory.

Can Foreigners Get an EIN Number?

Yes. Non-U.S. citizens and entrepreneurs who do not live in the United States can obtain an EIN. You do not need to open a physical office in the U.S. to apply.

Foreign applicants generally need an EIN for two main reasons:

1. A company incorporated in the U.S. (for example, a Wyoming or Delaware LLC) needs a federal tax identification number.

2. Individuals conducting freelance or online business activities in the U.S. require it to report income.

In both cases, the IRS allows applications online, by phone, fax, or mail.

How to Apply for an EIN Number

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how foreigners can apply for an EIN:

1. Prepare Your Company Information

If you have established an LLC in the United States, make sure you have your company documents ready — such as your Articles of Organization and Registered Agent details.

2. Complete Form SS-4

The EIN application is submitted using IRS Form SS-4. This form can be filled out online or downloaded as a PDF.

The main information required includes:

• Company name and address

• Name of the responsible party

• Type of business (LLC, Corporation, Sole Proprietorship, etc.)

• Date of company formation

• Reason for applying (“Started new business”)

For foreign applicants, one of the most important fields is the “SSN or ITIN” section. This can be left blank — the IRS manually reviews EIN applications from foreigners without a Social Security Number.

EIN Application Methods (Detailed Overview)

Foreign applicants can apply for an EIN through several different methods, each with its own advantages, timeline, and requirements.

Online Application: This is the fastest option for individuals residing in the U.S. The IRS’s online system allows applicants to complete the form in just 10–15 minutes. However, because the system requires an SSN (Social Security Number) for verification, non-U.S. residents typically cannot use this method.

Phone Application: This is the most convenient and fastest method for foreign entrepreneurs. Applicants can call the IRS’s International EIN Department at +1 267-941-1099. During the call, the representative will take your SS-4 form details verbally. Once approved, your EIN is usually issued within 1–2 business days via email or fax. This is the most practical method for applicants outside the United States.

Fax Application: Another option for foreign applicants is to send the completed SS-4 form to the fax number provided by the IRS. Processing typically takes 2–4 business days, and this method does not require an SSN, making it a popular choice among international applicants.

Mail Application: This is the slowest but most universally accepted option. Applications sent by mail usually take 4–6 weeks to process.

In summary, for foreigners living outside the U.S., the fastest option is the phone application, while the most secure and document-based method is mailing the form. The right choice depends on how quickly you need the EIN and whether you want official written documentation.

Difference Between EIN and ITIN

Many people confuse EIN and ITIN, but they serve different purposes:

• EIN (Employer Identification Number): For companies and business entities.

• ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number): For individuals who need to file U.S. taxes (such as freelancers).

In short, if you own a company, you need an EIN; if you are an individual earning income from the U.S., you need an ITIN.

Important Notes for Foreigners Applying for an EIN

As of 2025, the IRS has introduced additional verification and security measures. Keep these points in mind when applying:

• Your company address must match your registered agent’s address.

• Clearly include your email address on Form SS-4.

• Always check your spam folder for IRS emails — your confirmation letter is often sent via email as a PDF.

• Keep your IRS Confirmation Letter (CP 575) safe — this is your official EIN certificate.

• Without this letter, you cannot open accounts with Amazon, Payoneer, or U.S. banks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can foreigners apply for an EIN online?
Yes, but the IRS online system is fully accessible only to applicants with an SSN. Foreigners without an SSN should apply by phone or fax instead.

2. Is there a fee to obtain an EIN?
No. The IRS does not charge any fees for direct EIN applications. However, third-party agents or incorporation services may charge a service fee.

3. How long does it take to receive an EIN?
By phone, you’ll usually get your EIN within 1–2 business days. Mailed applications take about 4–6 weeks.

4. Do I need to own a U.S. company to get an EIN?
No. Individual entrepreneurs, such as Amazon or Etsy sellers, can also apply for an EIN without owning a U.S. entity.

5. Can I open a bank account using my EIN?
Yes. Most U.S. banks and fintech platforms (like Mercury, Relay, or Wise) accept EIN as official business identification.

Applying for an EIN number as a foreigner is a crucial step for anyone looking to do business in the United States, engage in e-commerce, or earn taxable income under U.S. law.

While the process may seem complex at first, filling out the form correctly ensures approval within just a few days.

Whether you apply online, by phone, fax, or mail, obtaining an EIN officially connects your business to the U.S. tax system and builds the financial foundation for your operations.

In short, in 2025, getting an EIN is a strategic move for every international entrepreneur aiming to expand into the American market.