How to Get a US EIN as a Non-Resident (Step by Step)

Target keyword: US EIN non-resident how to get Category: Banking Deep-Dives TLDR: A US EIN (Employer Identification Number) is essential for banking, taxes, and payments if you have a US company. Getting one as a non-resident takes one phone call — or a few weeks by fax. This guide explains both routes.

What Is an EIN and Why Do You Need One?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a 9-digit tax ID issued by the IRS to businesses operating in the United States. Despite the name, you don't need employees to get one.

• You need an EIN to:
• Open a US business bank account (Mercury, Relay, traditional banks)
• File US tax returns (Form 1120 / 1065 / 5472)
• Register with Stripe, PayPal, Amazon Seller Central
• Hire US employees or pay US contractors
• Set up a US payroll account

Route 1: Phone (Fastest — Same Day)

The IRS International Business Tax Line opens a direct channel for non-US residents to obtain an EIN by phone.

Number: +1 267-941-1099 Hours: Monday–Friday, 6:00am–11:00pm Eastern Time

• What you need:
• Your name and US address (registered agent address is fine)
• Your company name (exactly as filed)
• Your company type (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
• Your state of formation
• Your own name and home country address
• Your Social Security Number (SSN) — NOT required for non-residents
• Your role in the company

The call typically takes 15–30 minutes. An IRS agent will ask questions and issue your EIN verbally, then mail an EIN confirmation letter to your registered address within 4 weeks.

Tip: Write down the EIN immediately when the agent gives it to you. The letter is important to receive, but many banks accept the EIN alone for account opening.

Route 2: Fax (4–6 Weeks)

If you'd rather not call, you can complete Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) and fax it to the IRS.

Form SS-4 download: irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-ss-4

Fax number for international applicants: +1 855-215-1627

• Fill in:
• Line 1: Legal name of entity
• Line 2: Trade name (if different)
• Line 4a–4b: Mailing address (your registered agent address in the US)
• Line 7a–7b: Name and address of responsible party (you)
• Line 8a: Type of entity (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
• Line 9a: Reason for applying (New business)
• Line 10: Date business started
• Line 11: Closing month of accounting year
• Line 12: Highest number of employees expected
• Line 14: Principal business activity
• Line 15: Principal product or service

No SSN required. For Line 7b, write "Foreign" or leave blank — the IRS has a workaround for non-residents.

Processing time: 4–6 weeks. The EIN arrives by post to your registered agent address.

Route 3: Third-Party Service (Easiest but Costs Money)

Services like Doola, Northwest Registered Agent, Stripe Atlas, and Incfile will obtain your EIN as part of their formation packages, or as a standalone service.

Typical cost: $50–$150

Timeline: Same day to 2 weeks depending on service

This is the most popular option for founders who want to avoid calling a US government number from abroad or dealing with fax machines.

After You Get Your EIN

1. Apply for Mercury or Relay — they accept your EIN + articles of incorporation 2. Register with Stripe — add your EIN during the business setup process 3. Set up bookkeeping — your EIN is needed for US tax filing (even if you owe $0) 4. Consult a US CPA — understand your filing obligations before revenues start

Common EIN Mistakes

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