How to Get an EIN from Outside the USA
A complete guide to all the methods available for obtaining a US Employer Identification Number when you're located outside the United States.
Skip the Hassle
We handle your EIN application. No SSN required. Starting at $172.
If you're outside the United States and need a US Employer Identification Number (EIN), you have several options. The right method depends on your timeline, budget, and comfort level with the process.
Key Fact
International applicants cannot use the IRS online EIN application — it requires a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You must use alternative methods.
The 4 Methods to Get an EIN from Abroad
1IRS Phone Application (DIY)
The IRS has a dedicated phone line for international applicants:
+1-267-941-1099
Hours: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Eastern Time (Monday-Friday)
Pros:
- • Free (no IRS fee)
- • Same-day EIN if successful
- • Direct from the IRS
Cons:
- • Long hold times (30-60+ minutes)
- • Difficult time zones
- • International calling charges
- • Language barriers possible
2Fax Application
Complete Form SS-4 and fax it to the IRS at:
+1-304-707-9471
Processing time: 4 business days (typically)
Pros:
- • Free (no IRS fee)
- • Faster than mail
- • No phone call needed
Cons:
- • Takes 4+ days
- • Need access to fax
- • Errors can cause rejection
3Mail Application
Mail Form SS-4 to the IRS:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN International Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Processing time: 4-6 weeks
Pros:
- • Free (no IRS fee)
- • No technology needed
Cons:
- • Very slow (4-6 weeks)
- • International postage costs
- • Mail can be lost
4Professional EIN Service (Recommended)
Use a professional service (like us!) to handle the application on your behalf:
Pros:
- • Fast (24-48 hour estimate typically)
- • No phone calls or time zones
- • Expert form preparation
- • Error handling included
Cons:
- • Service fee ($172-$402)
Method Comparison
| Method | Time | Cost | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phone (DIY) | Same-day review target | Free* | Medium-Hard |
| Fax | 4 days | Free* | Medium |
| 4-6 weeks | Free* | Easy | |
| Professional Service | 24-48 hour estimate | $172-$402 | Very Easy |
*Plus international calling/postage costs if applicable
What You'll Need
Required
- • Legal business name
- • US mailing address (registered agent)
- • Business formation documents
- • Responsible party information
- • Passport or government ID
NOT Required
- • SSN (Social Security Number)
- • ITIN (Individual Taxpayer ID)
- • US citizenship
- • Physical presence in US
Our Recommendation
For most international applicants, using a professional EIN service offers the best balance of speed, convenience, and reliability. The time saved dealing with IRS phone queues, time zone issues, and potential application errors is usually worth the service fee.
If you're on a tight budget and have flexibility with timing, the DIY phone method or fax can work — just be prepared for potential challenges.
Ready to Get Your EIN?
Skip the hassle. We'll handle your EIN application from start to finish.
Start Your EIN Application