An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique tax ID issued by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) in the United States. It’s similar to a business tax number in other countries and is required for tax filing, opening bank accounts, hiring employees, and doing business in the U.S.
For entrepreneurs aiming to establish a U.S. business, access global payment platforms, or operate internationally, obtaining a U.S. EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a key step. Issued by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service), the EIN serves as the federal tax identification number for a business entity registered in the United States. The good news is: you don’t need to be a U.S. resident or even set foot in the country to get one.
This comprehensive guide covers how non-resident entrepreneurs can obtain an EIN remotely, including requirements, application steps, important tips, and common pitfalls.
The EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a 9-digit tax ID issued by the IRS to businesses operating in the United States. It serves as the business equivalent of a Social Security Number (SSN) and is essential for legal and financial operations in the U.S.
You’ll need an EIN to:
Open a business bank account in the U.S.
Register with Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, or similar platforms
File tax returns with the IRS
Issue invoices and receive payments under a U.S. entity
Hire employees in the U.S. (if applicable)
Receive investments or engage in legal business activities
In short, the EIN is required not only for operating in the U.S. market but also for international businesses that want to appear credible and compliant on a global scale.
Non-U.S. citizens and non-residents can apply for an EIN as long as they have a U.S.-registered business entity (such as an LLC or C-Corp). Typical eligible applicants include:
Entrepreneurs who’ve formed a U.S. LLC or Corporation
Digital entrepreneurs selling via Amazon FBA, Shopify, or other platforms
SaaS founders or digital product sellers using Stripe
Freelancers or consultants operating through a U.S. business entity
Note: You must have a U.S. company formed before applying for an EIN. You cannot apply as an individual without a registered business.
After forming your U.S. company, the EIN application process involves the following steps:
The EIN is requested via Form SS-4, which you must fill out with the following information:
Line 1: Legal name of your entity (as shown on formation docs)
Line 2: Trade name (if applicable)
Line 4a/4b: U.S. address of the business (usually your registered agent address)
Line 7a/7b: Responsible party (your name) – leave SSN blank if you don’t have one
Line 9a: Type of entity (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
Line 10: Reason for applying – usually "Started a new business"
You can complete the form digitally or print and fill it by hand. The form must be completed in English.
There are three ways to submit your EIN application as a non-resident:
By Fax
Send the completed Form SS-4 to:
+1-304-707-9471 (International applicants)
Processing time: 7–15 business days
By Phone (International Applicants Only)
Call +1-267-941-1099
Provide your SS-4 information over the phone
EIN is issued immediately if approved
Strong English communication skills are required
By Mail
Send physical forms to the IRS address in the U.S.
Slowest option—may take several weeks
Note: Online application is only available to applicants with a valid SSN or ITIN, which non-residents typically do not have.
You must have a registered U.S. company before applying for an EIN
Form SS-4 must be filled out completely and accurately
When faxing, ensure the document is clear and legible
Save the official IRS confirmation letter (CP 575) for banking and legal purposes
If applying by phone, consider time zones and prepare for long wait times
The person listed as the “Responsible Party” must be a human (not another company)
Each EIN is assigned to one company; new companies need separate EINs
Many online services can handle the EIN application for you. These platforms often bundle EIN setup with company formation services:
Doola
Firstbase
ZenBusiness
LegalZoom
These services prepare the SS-4 form on your behalf, submit it to the IRS, and deliver your EIN once approved. Ideal for non-English speakers or those unfamiliar with U.S. tax documentation.
Once you’ve received your EIN (typically via email or fax), you should:
Use it to register with Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, or other platforms
Apply for a U.S. business bank account (e.g., with Mercury or Relay)
Keep the IRS confirmation letter (CP 575) in digital and physical formats
Use it when filing tax returns or annual compliance reports
Declare income generated through your U.S. company appropriately
If your company dissolves, the EIN remains tied to the original entity and is not reused
Can I get an EIN without forming a company in the U.S.?
No. EINs are only issued to legal entities formed in the U.S.
Is it free to apply for an EIN?
Yes. The IRS does not charge for EIN applications. Third-party services may charge fees for assistance.
How long does it take to receive an EIN?
By phone: same day.
By fax: 1–2 weeks.
By mail: several weeks.
Do I need a Social Security Number (SSN) to apply?
No. Foreign applicants without an SSN can leave that field blank.
What if I lose my EIN confirmation letter?
You can contact the IRS to request a copy. It’s highly recommended to store the document safely.
in MarcaBien?
Free lawyer check within 24 hours
Registration, litigation support and trademark monitoring
Simple online and online 3-step process
Global branding services and support
Registration, litigation support and trademark monitoring
Your brand is safe with us with 95% success rate
Process Work
In order for a trademark to be registered, it must meet the distinctiveness criterion. Results and advice within 24 hours.
After completing the order, we will draft an application. Once approved, we will file it on your behalf, providing legal representation.
The application is evaluated by the relevant Intellectual Property Office (IPO), published and approved for possible objections.
After a successful registration, your trademark is valid from the date of application and retains the right of priority throughout the process.
Contact Us
Secure and register your brand!
