Getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is one of the first legal steps that startups must take when planning to do business in the United States — even if the founders are not U.S. residents. Whether you're setting up a U.S.-based LLC, planning to use services like Stripe, PayPal, or Amazon, or opening a U.S. bank account, you'll almost always be required to provide an EIN.
Getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is one of the first legal steps that startups must take when planning to do business in the United States — even if the founders are not U.S. residents. Whether you're setting up a U.S.-based LLC, planning to use services like Stripe, PayPal, or Amazon, or opening a U.S. bank account, you'll almost always be required to provide an EIN.
The good news is that you do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have a Social Security Number (SSN) to get one. Even if you're running your business from another country, you can apply for and receive an EIN from the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) without setting foot in the United States.
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the IRS to identify a business entity. It functions like a Social Security Number, but for businesses. With an EIN, your startup can pay taxes, open business bank accounts, hire employees in the U.S., and comply with federal tax regulations.
Startups also need an EIN to register on platforms like Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, and other U.S.-based financial services and marketplaces.
Yes, non-U.S. residents and international entrepreneurs can apply for and obtain an EIN, even without a U.S. address or Social Security Number. The IRS allows foreign individuals to apply for an EIN, provided they have a valid reason such as forming a U.S. LLC or conducting business with U.S. customers.
To apply for an EIN from abroad, you’ll need a legally formed U.S. business (LLC or Corporation), a valid U.S. mailing address (can be a virtual address), the name and contact information of the company’s responsible party, and a completed Form SS-4. You’ll also need to state your reason for applying, such as “starting a business,” “opening a business bank account,” or “meeting payment processor requirements.”
Non-U.S. applicants can apply by calling the IRS at +1-267-941-1099 (Monday–Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time). You’ll need to complete Form SS-4 in advance and provide your answers over the phone. The IRS agent will issue your EIN immediately during the call. Only the business owner or an authorized third party can make this call.
You can also fax the completed SS-4 form to the IRS at +1-304-707-9471. If there are no errors, the IRS usually sends your EIN confirmation within three to seven business days via fax. This is a suitable method if you prefer written communication or if calling is not an option.
Many startup founders prefer using professional services that handle EIN registration. These services, such as Doola, LegalZoom, Firstbase, or StartGlobal, assist with LLC formation, registered agent setup, EIN application, and document delivery. Although they charge a fee, they help save time and prevent mistakes.
Form SS-4 must be filled carefully to avoid delays. Include your business’s legal name, type of entity (LLC, Corporation), responsible party’s name (can be a non-U.S. person), U.S. mailing address (virtual address is acceptable), and describe your business activity. On line 10, write your reason for applying — e.g., “compliance with IRS regulations,” “opening U.S. bank account,” or “starting e-commerce business.”
It’s important to note that you do not need to fill in a Social Security Number or ITIN if you are not a U.S. person. Leave that section blank.
The phone method is immediate. Fax applications typically take 3 to 7 business days. Third-party services may take 5 to 15 business days depending on their internal process and IRS workload.
Submitting an unsigned or incomplete SS-4 form is one of the most common errors. Using incorrect address formats, choosing the wrong business entity type, or including SSN when it's not required can also cause delays. Always double-check all entries and keep a copy of your EIN confirmation letter (known as CP 575) for future use.
In some cases, yes. If your foreign company plans to open a U.S. bank account, hire employees in the U.S., or work with U.S. platforms like Amazon or Stripe, you may still need an EIN. However, forming a U.S. LLC or Corporation is highly recommended as it simplifies compliance, taxation, and platform registration.
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