Starting a US business while living outside the United States can feel overwhelming. Many founders we work with at Ebizfiling share concern. They are ready to launch, but they get stuck at one basic question.
How do I get an EIN number if I do not live in the US? The good news is this. You can apply for an EIN number even if you live outside the US and do not have a Social Security Number. The IRS allows foreign founders to apply, as long as the process is followed correctly.
An EIN number, or Employer Identification Number, is a unique tax identification number issued by the IRS. It works like a tax ID for your business.
You need an EIN number to open a US business bank account, file federal taxes, hire employees, apply for licenses, and work with payment processors. If you are forming an LLC or corporation in the US, an EIN is mandatory, even if you live abroad.
Yes. Living outside the US does not stop you from applying for an EIN number. The IRS allows foreign individuals and companies to apply without a Social Security Number or ITIN.However, the application method is different.
Non-US residents cannot use the IRS online EIN application system. Instead, they must apply through Form SS-4 using fax or phone methods.
The EIN application process for non-US residents follows a few clear steps.
Many international founders face delays because of small mistakes. These include incorrect entity details, missing signatures, or confusion about the responsible party section. Applying on your own can also mean long waiting times and repeated follow-ups with the IRS. This is where professional support makes a real difference.
At Ebizfiling, we help non-US founders apply for an EIN number without stress. We review your business structure, prepare Form SS-4 accurately, and submit the EIN application through the correct IRS channel. Our team tracks the process and keeps you updated until your EIN is issued. This allows you to focus on building your business while we handle the IRS coordination and compliance work.
Getting an EIN while living outside the US is completely possible, but the process must be handled carefully. A correct EIN application saves time, avoids rejections, and helps you move forward with banking, payments, and tax compliance.
If you are planning to apply for an EIN number from outside the US, get in touch with Ebizfiling today. We will guide you through the process and ensure your EIN is issued without unnecessary delays.
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Yes, you can apply for an EIN number even if you live outside the United States. The IRS allows foreign individuals and companies to apply, provided the business is registered in the US and the application is submitted using the correct method.
No, a Social Security Number is not mandatory for foreign applicants. If you do not have an SSN or ITIN, you can still apply for an EIN by mentioning “Foreign” in the responsible party section of the EIN application.
Non-US residents must apply for an EIN using IRS Form SS-4. Since the online IRS portal is not available to foreign applicants, the form is submitted via fax or by calling the IRS directly.
Processing time depends on the application method. Phone applications may result in immediate EIN issuance, while fax submissions usually take a few weeks. Errors or missing information can cause delays.
Yes, an EIN is required before opening a US business bank account. Banks typically ask for the EIN confirmation letter issued by the IRS to verify your business identity.
Yes, most US business entities such as LLCs and corporations require an EIN even if they do not have employees. It is needed for tax filings, banking, and payment processing.
You mainly need completed Form SS-4 with accurate business details. In most cases, no supporting documents are required, but the information must match your US company records.
Yes, a foreign individual can be the responsible party for the EIN application. The IRS allows non-US residents to act as responsible parties as long as the information provided is accurate.
If an EIN application is rejected, it is usually due to incorrect details or missing information. The application can be corrected and resubmitted, but this may increase processing time.
Ebizfiling assists foreign founders by preparing Form SS-4 correctly, submitting the EIN application through the appropriate IRS channel, and tracking the process until the EIN number is issued.
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