Starting a business in the United States as a foreigner may seem like a complex process, especially if you do not have a Social Security Number (SSN). However, one of the most fundamental and accessible steps to legally establish your business in the U.S. is to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN). Employer Identification Number (EIN)also known as the Employer Identification Number.
This nine-digit number, issued directly by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)The Social Security number is the business equivalent of a social security number and is required to formally operate a company in the U.S., open bank accounts, hire employees and comply with tax obligations.
Many international entrepreneurs and business people are unaware that it is not mandatory to have a SSN to apply for an EIN.This makes this process entirely viable for foreigners wishing to invest, expand their business or create a new legal entity in the United States from abroad.
This article is designed to explain clearly, step by step, how you can obtain your EIN from any country, without the need to be a resident, without having an initial physical presence and without having an SSN. We will take an in-depth look at the requirements, the routes available, the documents needed, the most common mistakes and best practices to speed up the process.
In addition, we will provide you with a practical reflection in each section, so that you can apply this knowledge not only on a technical level, but also as part of a broader internationalization and tax compliance strategy.
Whether you are creating an LLC, a C-Corp, a foundation or simply need to operate as a freelancer from abroad with an American client, this article is your complete guide to getting your EIN without an SSN, safely, legally and efficiently.
What is an EIN and why do you need it as a foreigner?
The EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) to identify a business entity for tax purposes in the United States. Although its name suggests that it is only for employers, the reality is that any entity operating legally in the U.S. needs this number, whether or not it has employees.
This number functions as the business equivalent of the SSN (Social Security Number)but it is used only for business-related activities, such as:
Open a U.S. business bank account.
Legally issue invoices to customers in the U.S.
File federal tax returns (even if you have no tax liability).
Comply with state and federal requirements.
Hiring employees within the country.
Apply for business licenses and permits.
Why is it essential for foreigners?
As a foreigner, the EIN becomes your gateway to the U.S. entrepreneurial ecosystem. While there are some limitations, the IRS allows individuals who do not have SSNs, or ITINs in some cases, to obtain an EIN if they are forming or have already formed a legal entity in the U.S., such as an LLC (Limited Liability Company) or a Corporation (Corp or Inc).
This means that you can operate legally from anywhere in the world as a service provider, online store, consulting, software company, e-commerce or import/export... as long as you have an EIN that formally identifies you to the IRS.
In addition, having an EIN is essential for:
Establish relationships with financial platforms such as PayPal, Stripe or Amazon.
Establish relationships with financial platforms such as PayPal, Stripe or Amazon.
Access suppliers and corporate customers that require an EIN as part of the billing process.
Maintaining financial transparency is key to international business reputation.
Many foreign entrepreneurs put off creating their EIN out of fear of the process or the false belief that they need an SSN or a U.S. address first. The IRS allows you to apply for an EIN without an SSN, as long as you meet the correct criteria.
If you have an international business vision, getting your EIN should be one of your first strategic moves. Not only does it formalize your company, it also opens the doors to a powerful economic system full of opportunities.
Who can apply for an EIN without an SSN and which entities qualify?
One of the most frequently asked questions among international entrepreneurs is whether they can apply for an EIN without being a U.S. citizen or resident. The answer is yes. The IRS allows foreign nationals without a Social Security number (SSN) to apply for an EIN, as long as they are forming a valid U.S. business entity and have a legitimate business purpose.
Who can apply for an EIN without an SSN?
Here are the main legal structures for which a foreigner can apply for an EIN without an SSN:
- LLC (Limited Liability Company)Very popular among international entrepreneurs, especially in states such as Wyoming, Delaware or Florida, due to their flexibility and tax benefits.
- Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp)Recommended for companies seeking to attract investment or issue shares.
- PartnershipsIn partnerships between two or more persons, although they may involve more complex tax obligations.
- Non-Profit OrganizationIn certain cases, foreigners are also allowed to register nonprofit organizations if they comply with federal requirements.
- Sole ProprietorshipIn the U.S., a foreigner can operate as a sole proprietor, although this option has limitations and is recommended only if you already have an ITIN.
Many foreign entrepreneurs make the mistake of postponing their entry into the U.S. market believing they need residency or immigration documentation. But the U.S. tax system is designed to attract foreign investment.One of its greatest strengths is that it allows non-resident aliens to operate legally through corporate structures.
Therefore, if you are thinking of expanding your business, selling online to American customers or simply protecting your brand with a registered entity, knowing that you can apply for an EIN without an SSN is the first step to formalize your international presence. The most important thing is to choose the right entity, get the right advice and comply with each step of the process.
Step by step to obtain your EIN without SSN (updated version 2025)
Step by step to obtain your EIN without SSN (updated version 2025)
Step 1: Define the legal entity and state of incorporation
Before applying for an EIN, you need to have a registered legal entity in the United States, such as an LLC or C-Corp. This involves:
- Choose the state where you will register the company (Delaware, Wyoming and Florida are widely used by foreigners).
- To carry out the procedure of incorporation through the corresponding secretary of stateeither on your own or through a reliable supplier.
- Obtain the Organizational Articles (Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation), which certify that your company is officially registered.
Step 2: Complete Form SS-4
This is the central document to apply for your EIN. You can download it from the official IRS website. Here are some key points:
- In line 7a of the form you must indicate your name as the main responsible person.
- On line 7b you can leave the SSN field blank if you do not have one.
- On line 8a you must select the type of entity (e.g. LLC).
- On line 10 explain the purpose of the application (for example: "To open a business bank account in the U.S." or "To comply with U.S. tax reporting obligations").
It is very important to fill out this form typed or in legible, error-free handwriting.
Step 3: Submitting the form to the IRS
Since you cannot use the online system, you have two options for submitting Form SS-4:
- By faxTo the IRS number that corresponds to international applications: +1 (855) 215-1627 (from USA) or +1 (304) 707-9471 (from outside the U.S.). This is the fastest way. If everything is correct, you can receive your EIN in 5 to 15 business days.
- By postal mail (slower): Internal Revenue Service Attn: EIN Operation Cincinnati, OH 45999 USA Wait time can be 4 to 8 weeks.
Step 4: Receive your CP 575 letter
Once your application is approved, the IRS will send you an official letter (called CP 575) with your EIN number. This document is essential to open bank accounts, register your company on trading platforms, and maintain the legality of your operations.
If you sent by fax, this letter usually arrives by mail or fax if you requested it. You can also ask them to send it to you by email (although this is not officially their standard procedure, they sometimes do it if you clearly state so in the request).
This procedure may seem lengthy, but it is actually a very simple one. very accessible with proper guidance or advice. Many people are blocked because they do not have a SSN and end up delaying the opening of their business, losing valuable business opportunities.
If you follow each step correctly, and especially if you rely on a specialized consultancy, you can obtain your EIN quickly, without errors and without complications.
The EIN is not only a tax requirement; it is your legal and financial pass into the U.S. business system. Don't underestimate its value and don't let the lack of an SSN hold you back. With preparation and clarity, it is a totally viable process.
Conclusions
Applying for an EIN as a foreigner without an SSN is perfectly possible and, above all, strategic for those who wish to have a legal presence in the U.S. market. Throughout this article, we have seen that the U.S. tax system, far from being inaccessible, is designed to facilitate the participation of global entrepreneurs, as long as the proper processes are followed.
Having an EIN not only meets IRS tax requirements, but also opens the door to payment platforms, supplier relationships, banking and corporate growth. For entrepreneurs looking to sell products or services from abroad, establishing an LLC and obtaining an EIN is the foundation for operating legally and with confidence.
The key to success in this process lies in:
- Correct choice of the legal structure.
- Complete Form SS-4 accurately.
- Send the form through the correct channels (fax or mail).
- Avoid common mistakes such as omitting information, using invalid addresses or not following IRS response times.
In addition, relying on a reliable tax consulting firm can make the difference between a smooth process or months of uncertainty. In an increasingly digital and global world, formalizing your business in the U.S. is no longer a distant option.but a real and achievable tool to scale your venture internationally.
If you are ready to take the plunge and expand your business into the most competitive market in the world, starting with your EIN is the right move. Not having an SSN is no longer an obstacle. It's just one more piece of information that, with advice and planning, is easily overcome.
