How International Businesses Can Apply for an EIN Without a U.S. Presence

Overview

All international customers registering in the United States need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN). Even without a U.S. address, Social Security Number (SSN), or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), foreign entities can obtain an EIN directly from the IRS.

While IRS Form SS-4 is required in all cases, downloading and completing the form is only a preparatory step. The IRS accepts EIN applications from foreign applicants through three official submission channels: phone, fax, or mail.

This article walks you through the most efficient path to getting your EIN and meeting U.S. compliance requirements.

Prepare IRS Form SS-4 (Required for All Application Methods)

Foreign applicants can request an EIN by completing IRS Form SS-4.

Step 1: Download the Form

Access the official form here: IRS Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number)

Step 2: Complete the Form

When filling out Form SS-4, make sure these fields are accurate:

• Legal name: Use your foreign business or legal entity name.

• Address (Lines 4–5): Enter your complete foreign address.

• Type of entity: Select the appropriate structure (LLC, corporation, sole proprietor, etc.).

• Reason for applying (Line 10): Choose "Starting a new business" or "Compliance with IRS withholding regulations."

• SSN/ITIN (Line 7b): Leave this blank if you don't have one.

Step 3: Submit the Form

Once you have fully accomplished the completed RS Form SS-4, submit the EIN request using one of the methods below.

Option 1: Apply by Phone (Recommended for Faster Processing)

Applying by phone is the most time-efficient option for international applicants and often results in same-day EIN issuance.

Phone Application Details

• Phone number: +1-267-941-1099

• Availability:

  • Monday–Friday

  • 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM (U.S. Eastern Time)

• Cost: Not toll-free

What to Expect

• Inform the IRS agent that you are a foreign applicant

• Use your completed Form SS-4 to answer verification questions

• If approved, the EIN is typically issued during the call

Option 2: Apply by Fax

International applicants may also submit Form SS-4 by fax.

Fax Submission Details

• Fax number: +1-855-641-6935

Processing Time

• EINs submitted by fax are generally issued within approximately 4 business days, provided the form is completed accurately.

Option 3: Apply by Mail

Mail submission is supported but has the longest processing timeline and is best suited for customers without time constraints.

Mailing Address

Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN International Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
USA

Processing Time

• Mail applications typically take 4 weeks or longer to process.

Key Takeaways

• A U.S. address, SSN, or ITIN is not required for foreign applicants

• Completing Form SS-4 is required

• International applicants can submit EIN requests by phone, fax, or mail

• Phone applications offer the fastest turnaround, while fax and mail provide alternative paths when needed

• Accurate completion of Form SS-4 helps avoid delays.

This process allows international businesses to meet U.S. registration requirements efficiently and move forward with confidence.

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