Obtaining EIN as a Foreigner- The Complete Guide

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re living outside the U.S., but you’re ready to step into the American market with your own U.S. business. Maybe you’ve already formed your LLC—or maybe you’re just researching. Either way, you’ve probably realized one thing: obtaining an EIN as a foreigner isn’t as simple as clicking a button.

And that’s where the stress begins.

You don’t have a Social Security Number. You don’t have a U.S. address. You’ve heard rumors like “foreigners can’t apply” or “the IRS will reject your application without an SSN.” And worst of all, most of the advice online is outdated, unclear, or designed to sell you something you don’t need.

I’ve been there. I’m not based in the U.S. either. But I built Enterobiz to make this process easier—not just for me, but for thousands of entrepreneurs worldwide who are building real businesses from countries like Pakistan, Nigeria, Brazil, Egypt, the Philippines, and beyond.

Here’s the honest truth: you can get an EIN as a foreigner—legally, quickly, and without an SSN or U.S. mailing address.

You just need the right guidance and someone who speaks your language (in plain, clear English). This guide will walk you through exactly how it works, what the IRS expects, and what mistakes to avoid. I’ll also show you how Enterobiz can do it for you—legally, affordably, and in just 7 to 10 business days after your LLC is approved.

So, let’s take the stress out of obtaining EIN as a foreigner and get your business one step closer to the American dream.

🔍 What is an EIN? (Simple Explanation)

An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is like a Social Security Number—but for your business.

It’s issued by the IRS and used to identify your company for tax and banking purposes. Think of it as your business’s ID card in the United States.

You’ll need an EIN if you want to:

• Open a U.S. business bank account
• Apply for payment processors like Stripe or Mercury
• Hire employees (now or in the future)
• File taxes with the IRS
• Operate your U.S. LLC legally—even as a non-resident

Now, if you’re a foreigner running a U.S. LLC, getting an EIN is absolutely essential. Without it, your LLC is basically invisible in the eyes of banks and the IRS. You can’t do much.

Here’s where most non-U.S. founders get stuck: the IRS online system doesn’t accept applications without a Social Security Number (SSN). And as a foreigner, you likely don’t have one. So you’re blocked from the default way most Americans apply.

But don’t worry—there’s a legal and proven workaround for obtaining an EIN as a foreigner, and that’s exactly what this guide is here to help you with.

Whether you want to apply by yourself or have Enterobiz handle everything for you, we’ll make sure you walk away with a valid EIN and zero confusion.

🌐 Can a Foreigner Really Get an EIN?

Yes. 100%. Absolutely.
You can get an EIN as a foreigner—even if you:

• Don’t live in the U.S.
• Don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN)
• Don’t have a U.S. mailing address
• Have never been to the United States

This is one of the biggest misunderstandings I see online. People think they’re blocked from starting a U.S. business just because they don’t have a U.S. ID. But that’s not how the IRS works.

The IRS allows non-U.S. citizens and non-residents to apply for EINs all the time. In fact, thousands of entrepreneurs from outside the U.S. form LLCs every month, and every single one of them needs an EIN to operate legally.

The process is just different.

While U.S. residents can apply online in minutes, foreigners must submit IRS Form SS-4 manually—either by fax, mail, or through a phone call (if you can ever get through). The IRS even has a dedicated process for this, but they don’t exactly make it beginner-friendly.

And that’s where most people give up: they either make a mistake on the form, fax it to the wrong number, or wait weeks with no response, only to get rejected.

That’s why at Enterobiz, we’ve built a done-for-you solution specifically for non-U.S. citizens. No SSN? No problem. No U.S. address? We’ve got you. We handle the EIN paperwork for you legally, fast, and with zero stress.

So yes, obtaining an EIN as a foreigner is 100% possible. You just need the right steps—or someone who already knows the system inside and out.

📋 Requirements to Apply for EIN as a Foreigner

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s get clear on what you actually need to apply for an EIN as a non-U.S. resident. The good news? You don’t need much. But the bad news is—if you miss even one detail, the IRS can reject your application or delay it for weeks.

So let’s keep it simple.

✅ Here’s what you do need:

1. A Legally Formed U.S. Company (Usually an LLC)
   • The IRS only gives EINs to entities that exist.
   • So first, you need to form your LLC (Enterobiz can do this for you).
   • Once your LLC is approved by the state, then you can apply for the EIN.
2. A Responsible Party (You)
   • This is the person who “owns or controls” the LLC.
   • If you’re the founder, that’s you.
   • You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen or have an SSN to be the responsible party.
3. Mailing Address
   • You must list a valid address where the IRS can send documents.
   • This will be an LLC address. It doesn’t have to be a U.S. address. But most people choose a USA address for privacy and credibility.
     
4. IRS Form SS-4
   • This is the official EIN application form.
   • You must fill it out manually and correctly (especially Line 7b, where many foreigners get stuck).

❌ What You Don’t Need:

• A Social Security Number (SSN)
• An Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN)
• A U.S. phone number
• A U.S. bank account beforehand

That’s it. If you have these basic pieces in place, obtaining EIN as a foreigner is 100% within your reach. And if you don’t want to risk mistakes or IRS delays, Enterobiz can take care of it all for you—faster than you think.

📝 IRS Form SS-4 Breakdown (Foreign-Friendly Walkthrough)

If you’ve seen Form SS-4 before, you know it looks like it was designed to confuse people, especially non-U.S. citizens. But don’t worry. I’ll walk you through the key sections step by step.

This is the official IRS form used to apply for an EIN. You’ll either fax it or have someone submit it for you. No online option is available if you don’t have an SSN.

Let’s simplify it:

🧾 Key Lines You MUST Fill Out (and Get Right)

📌 Line 1: Legal Name of Entity

• Enter your LLC’s full legal name, exactly as it appears on your Articles of Organization.

📌 Line 2: Trade Name

• If your business operates under another name (DBA), list it here. If not, leave it blank.

📌 Line 4a/4b: Mailing Address

• This is where the IRS will send your EIN letter.
• Use your international address if you don’t have a U.S. one.

📌 Line 7a: Responsible Party Name

• Enter your full legal name (you, the business owner).

📌 Line 7b: SSN/ITIN/EIN

• ⚠️ Leave this blank.
• You don’t have an SSN or ITIN, and that’s okay. The IRS will still process it.

📌 Line 8a: LLC?

• Mark “Yes.”

📌 Line 8b: Number of Members

• Put “1” for a single-member LLC or “2+” for multi-member.

📌 Line 9a: Type of Entity

• Choose “Limited Liability Company (LLC)” and fill in state + number of members.

📌 Line 10: Reason for Applying

• Select “Started a new business.”

📌 Line 18: Describe Your Business

• Briefly state what your business does (e.g., “eCommerce,” “Digital Marketing,” “Software Development”).

📌 Signature

• Sign and date the form at the bottom. You’re the owner, so you’re authorized.

🛑 Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Don’t enter a fake SSN. Leave Line 7b blank.
• Don’t write a U.S. address unless you actually have one.
• Don’t fax without a proper cover sheet or from a low-quality app.

If you’re unsure or want this done error-free in under 7 to 10 business days, Enterobiz can file your SS-4 with the IRS for you—and send you your EIN (Letter CP 575) via email or WhatsApp with no stress or rejection.

📤 How to Submit the EIN Application (For Foreigners)

Once your SS-4 form is filled out correctly, the next step is to submit it to the IRS. And here’s the key detail: foreigners cannot apply online. The IRS only allows online EIN applications for people with a valid SSN or ITIN.

So, how do you apply? You’ve got three options—each with its own pros and cons.

✅ Option 1: Fax the Form to the IRS

This is the most common and preferred method for non-U.S. citizens.

• Fax Number:
  +1 855-641-6935 (for international applicants)
• Processing Time:
  Usually 1–2 weeks. But delays are common.
• Important:
  Use a clear, high-resolution PDF. Always include a cover sheet with your name, email, and international phone number.

✍️ At Enterobiz, we use direct fax lines that reach the IRS faster, and we include every detail they expect, so nothing gets missed.

✅ Option 2: Call the IRS (International EIN Line)

• Phone Number: +1 267-941-1099
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 6 AM to 11 PM (U.S. Eastern Time)

You can technically apply over the phone, but there are some catches:

• Long wait times (30–90 minutes)
• You may be asked tricky tax questions
• Sometimes they’ll still ask for a faxed form afterward

📌 Not recommended if English isn’t your first language or you’re not confident speaking to U.S. government agents.

✅ Option 3: Mail the Form to the IRS

• Mailing Address:
  Internal Revenue Service
  Attn: EIN Operation
  Cincinnati, OH 45999
  USA
• Processing Time:
  4–6 weeks (and that’s if everything goes perfectly)

🚫 Not recommended if you’re in a hurry.

⚡ Easiest Way? Let Enterobiz Handle It

Why risk IRS delays, rejections, or lost forms?

At Enterobiz, we:

• Submit your SS-4 the same day your LLC is approved
• Use the correct channels for foreign applicants
• Deliver your EIN via Letter CP 575 in 7 to 10 business days
• No ID or passport needed. No stress.

⚠️ Common Problems Foreigners Face (and How to Avoid Them)

If you’ve ever tried doing business with U.S. government systems as a foreigner, you already know—it’s not built with you in mind. The process of obtaining an EIN as a foreigner may be legal and doable, but it’s filled with landmines if you don’t know what to watch out for.

Let’s go over the most common problems—and how to avoid each one.

❌ 1. Rejection Due to Incomplete or Incorrect Form SS-4

This is the #1 issue. Even one small mistake—like entering your name wrong or writing something in the SSN field—can cause your entire application to be rejected or ignored for weeks.

Avoid it:
✔️ Leave Line 7b blank if you don’t have an SSN
✔️ Double-check your LLC name and EIN reason
✔️ Use clear, black text—no blurry scans or handwriting

❌ 2. No Response from the IRS

Some people fax their SS-4 and never hear back. Why?

• Wrong fax number
• Poor resolution PDF
• No cover sheet
• IRS system delay

Avoid it:
✔️ Always include a cover letter
✔️ Send via a high-quality digital fax service
✔️ Keep proof of transmission

❌ 3. Long Delays (4–6 Weeks or More)

Even if your form is correct, the IRS backlog is real, especially for manual EIN filings from outside the U.S.

Avoid it:
✔️ Submit through someone who regularly deals with the IRS
✔️ Don’t rely on mail if you’re in a rush

❌ 4. Using an Untrusted EIN Service

Unfortunately, many services claiming “fast EIN for foreigners” are either illegal, overpriced, or unresponsive. Some charge $300+ and give no real support.

Avoid it:
✔️ Choose a service like Enterobiz, which specializes in EINs for non-U.S. founders
✔️ Ask if they deliver Letter CP 575 (that’s the IRS-approved confirmation you need)

⚡ The Fastest, Stress-Free Way: Let Enterobiz Do It for You (No Confusion, No Delays)

Trying to apply for an EIN as a non-U.S. resident sounds simple—until you actually deal with the IRS.

You fax the form, wait weeks, and sometimes… nothing happens. You call the IRS, wait on hold for 90 minutes, and get asked questions you don’t know how to answer.
And sometimes your form gets rejected just because you didn’t know to leave one box empty.

That’s why I created Enterobiz—to remove the confusion and help non-U.S. founders like you do it correctly the first time, without playing guessing games with government paperwork.

💼 What You Get with Enterobiz:

✅ We will apply for your EIN as soon as your LLC is approved
✅ Your EIN is delivered through IRS Letter CP 575 (this is the official document, not CP 575)
✅ You don’t need a U.S. address, SSN, or ITIN
✅ We don’t ask for your passport or personal ID
✅ You get full support on WhatsApp and email
✅ No upsells, no gimmicks, no fake urgency

Everything is handled legally by our Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) partner, who deals with the IRS on your behalf. That’s how we’re able to process EINs the right way—even if you’re outside the U.S.

💰 Transparent Pricing

• $149 for Non-U.S. Residents
• $49 for U.S. Residents

There are no government fees for EINs—we only charge for our time, paperwork, and handling. We never overcharge or pretend the IRS fee exists (because it doesn’t).

If you’re tired of guessing, waiting, or risking rejection, let us help.

👉 Order your EIN now and get back to focusing on your business, not IRS forms. Or Learn more about our EIN Service here.

🤔 DIY vs Paid EIN Service — What’s the Better Option?

Let’s be real — you can absolutely apply for an EIN yourself, and we’ll never hide that from you.

But doing it alone comes with its own risks, delays, and frustrations—especially if you’re a non-U.S. resident unfamiliar with IRS paperwork or time zones.

Here’s an honest side-by-side comparison to help you decide:

Feature	DIY (Do It Yourself)	Enterobiz EIN Service
IRS Form SS-4 Preparation	You fill it manually (risk of errors)	We fill it for you correctly
SSN/ITIN Requirement	Must leave field blank and hope it’s accepted	No SSN/ITIN needed, fully handled
How to Submit	You must fax or mail it to IRS yourself	We fax it directly via secure, high-quality line
Typical Wait Time	2–6 weeks, depending on IRS backlog	EIN delivered within 7 to 10 business days after LLC approval
IRS Follow-up	You must call/follow up if delayed	We handle it—no IRS calls for you
Support	None—you’re on your own	Email & WhatsApp support from real humans
Risk of Rejection	High if form has mistakes	Near-zero—done by experts familiar with IRS process
Confirmation Type	If accepted, IRS sends CP 575 or CP 575	You get Letter CP 575 PDF from IRS, valid for all banks & services
Total Cost	$0 (but high time and error cost)	$149 flat (non-U.S. residents) or $49 (U.S. residents)

 

✅ The Bottom Line:

If you have time, patience, and confidence, you can go the DIY route.

But if you want it done faster, safer, and without confusion, Enterobiz gives you a peace-of-mind service designed specifically for foreign founders.

🚀 How to Get Started with Enterobiz

If you’re ready to stop worrying about IRS forms, delays, or rejections, we’ll take care of everything for you, step by step.

We’ve made the process simple, transparent, and fast, with no hidden terms and no unnecessary paperwork.

Here’s exactly how to get started:

✅ Step-by-Step:

1. Form Your LLC

If you haven’t already formed your U.S. LLC, we recommend starting there.
You can do it yourself or use our all-inclusive LLC formation service ($249 + state fee), which includes:

• LLC Formation
• Registered Agent (1 year)
• Operating Agreement
• EIN Included Free

→ Learn more here

2. Already Have an LLC? Just Need an EIN?

Perfect — go straight to our EIN order form.
You’ll only need to provide:

• Your full name and contact info
• LLC name and state
• Mailing address(You listed on your Article of organization or certificate of organization)
• A few simple business details (no ID or SSN required)

→ Order EIN Only ($149)

3. We Handle Everything

Once your order is received:

• We prepare Form SS-4 on your behalf
• Our Certified Acceptance Agent files it correctly with the IRS
• You receive your IRS Letter CP 575 with your EIN by email and WhatsApp

📦 Turnaround: within 7 to 10 business days, IRS working hours

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Obtaining an EIN as a Foreigner

1. Can I get an EIN without an SSN or ITIN?

Yes — you absolutely can.
You do not need a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to get an EIN as a foreigner. The IRS has a specific process for foreign individuals who don’t have these numbers.

On Form SS-4, there’s a section (Line 7b) that asks for an SSN, ITIN, or EIN. As a foreigner without any of these, you simply leave this field blank. The IRS understands this and has a manual processing system in place for non-residents.

However, because you can’t apply online without an SSN or ITIN, you must submit the form via fax or mail (or call the IRS international line). That’s where mistakes often happen—if your form isn’t filled out exactly right, it can get rejected or delayed without any notice.

That’s why Enterobiz offers a professional EIN service that helps foreigners get their EIN fast, without needing an SSN, ITIN, or passport. We file it correctly, follow up with the IRS if needed, and send you your EIN through IRS Letter CP 575.

2. What if I’m not in the U.S.? Can I still apply for an EIN?

Yes, you can apply from anywhere in the world.
You do not need to live in the U.S. or even visit the U.S. to form an LLC or apply for an EIN.

The IRS allows foreign nationals to apply for EINs remotely, as long as:

• You’ve legally formed a U.S. business (usually an LLC or corporation)
• You provide accurate business info on Form SS-4
• You follow the manual application process (fax/mail/call)

Many entrepreneurs from Pakistan, India, UAE, Nigeria, South Africa, the UK, and other countries get their EINs from abroad every day. You can use your international mailing address on the form — the IRS will still process it.

At Enterobiz, most of our EIN clients are outside the U.S.. We understand the process inside out and handle everything for you, including the correct formatting for international addresses and proper submission channels.

3. How long does it take to get an EIN as a foreigner?

If you apply yourself via fax or mail, the wait time can vary.

• Fax: 2 to 4 weeks (if done correctly)
• Mail: 4 to 6 weeks (minimum)
• Phone: Same-day if lucky, but very hard to reach the IRS lines

However, if anything is wrong on your SS-4 form — and many forms submitted by foreigners have small errors — the IRS may ignore, delay, or reject your application without notice. That means you’ll wait for weeks and get nothing.

With Enterobiz, we submit your EIN application correctly and securely within 7 to 10 business days after your LLC is approved. You’ll usually receive your EIN in 1 business day as a scanned IRS Letter CP 575 via email and WhatsApp.

We don’t rely on luck or long hold times. We use trusted channels through a U.S.-based Certified Acceptance Agent who handles EINs for non-residents professionally.

4. Is there an IRS fee for applying for an EIN

No, the IRS does not charge a fee to issue an EIN.

But applying as a foreigner isn’t easy. You can’t use the online form, and the manual process can be confusing, time-consuming, and error-prone. That’s why professional filing services (like Enterobiz) charge a service fee—to handle all the work on your behalf.

We’re completely transparent about our pricing:

• $149 for non-U.S. residents
• $49 for U.S. residents

There are no government fees, no hidden charges, and no upsells.

5. What document will I receive as proof of my EIN?

As a foreigner, you’ll receive the IRS Letter CP 575, which is the official confirmation of your EIN.

Many U.S. residents who apply online receive a CP 575 notice instead. But since non-residents can’t apply online, the IRS sends the CP 575 letter when the EIN is processed manually.

This letter is valid for:

• Opening a U.S. bank account
• Applying for Stripe, Mercury, or Payoneer
• Tax reporting and IRS filings
• Verifying your business identity

At Enterobiz, we’ll send you a high-quality scanned copy of your IRS Letter CP 575 by email and WhatsApp as soon as we receive it from the IRS.

🎯 Conclusion: Your EIN is the Key — Don’t Let It Hold You Back

Starting a U.S. business from outside the United States is already a brave move. You’ve probably dealt with confusing advice, conflicting information, and people telling you it’s impossible.

But the truth is — obtaining an EIN as a foreigner is 100% possible, and it’s one of the most important steps you’ll take.

Without an EIN, your U.S. LLC is just a piece of paper. You can’t:

• Open a business bank account
• Apply for Stripe or Mercury
• File taxes or hire anyone
• Operate legally in the eyes of the IRS

That’s why I built Enterobiz — not just as a service, but as a support system for international entrepreneurs like you. I know how it feels to be stuck. I know what it’s like to get ignored, rejected, or scammed just because you’re not from the U.S.

You don’t need to go through that.

Let us help you get your EIN the right way — with no hidden fees, no stress, and no fear of rejection. We’ll handle the IRS, so you can focus on what matters: building your business, your way.

👉 Ready to Get Your EIN?

Whether you already have an LLC or you need one formed first, we’re here to help.