How to get a US tax ID as a non-resident
Non-residents cannot get an SSN, and usually do not need one. The route to a US tax ID and a US bank account is a US company with its own EIN. Our team can set it up for you.
The Xavion team resolves banking and payment cases like the one in this guide every week. Send us your case for a free review, if we approve it, your onboarding outcome is guaranteed.
How do I get a US tax ID as a foreigner?
Form a US company and apply for its EIN with Form SS-4. Our team can form the company and file the EIN for you.
- Can I get an EIN without an SSN: Yes. Non-residents apply by fax or post using Form SS-4. It usually takes several weeks.
- Do I need an ITIN to open a US bank account: Usually not for a business account. The company's EIN, your passport and proof of address are typically what banks ask for.
- Can a non-resident open a US bank account: Personal accounts are difficult without US residency. A business account for your own US LLC is the practical route.
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Tell us what the business does and where the owners live. We form the LLC, file the EIN and open your US bank account.
1. Which US tax ID do you actually need?
SSN: only for US citizens and authorised residents. Non-residents cannot get one, and do not need one to own a US company.
EIN: the federal tax ID for a company. It is what banks, Stripe and payment platforms ask for when you open a business account.
ITIN: a personal tax processing number for individuals with a US filing obligation but no SSN. It is rarely needed to open a business bank account.
For most foreign founders the answer is simple: form a US company and get its EIN.
2. How to get an EIN without an SSN
An EIN is issued to an entity, so you first form a US LLC or corporation, usually in Wyoming or Delaware. The application is filed with the IRS on Form SS-4. Without an SSN the online application is not available, so it is submitted by fax or post and typically takes several weeks.
Errors on the SS-4, or a name that does not match the state filing, are the most common causes of delay.
3. When an ITIN makes sense
An ITIN is applied for on Form W-7 with a federal tax return or a qualifying exception, plus certified identity documents. It is useful when you personally must file a US return or claim treaty benefits. It is not a shortcut to a personal US bank account.
4. From tax ID to US bank account
With the company formed and the EIN letter issued, the company can open a US business account to receive ACH and wire payments in USD and connect payment processors. Banks will still review the activity, website, ownership and source of funds, so the file has to be consistent.
5. Open your US company with our team today
Contact our team today and we handle it end to end: free review of your business, state selection, LLC formation, registered agent, operating agreement, EIN filing and US bank account opening with our partners. Guaranteed banking and payment processing solution for approved businesses.
Email info@xavioncapital.com, message us on Telegram at @xavioncapital (https://t.me/xavioncapital), or use the form on this page. Xavion does not provide tax advice; confirm your home-country tax position with a local adviser.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a US tax ID as a foreigner?
Form a US company and apply for its EIN with Form SS-4. Our team can form the company and file the EIN for you.
Can I get an EIN without an SSN?
Yes. Non-residents apply by fax or post using Form SS-4. It usually takes several weeks.
Do I need an ITIN to open a US bank account?
Usually not for a business account. The company's EIN, your passport and proof of address are typically what banks ask for.
Can a non-resident open a US bank account?
Personal accounts are difficult without US residency. A business account for your own US LLC is the practical route.
How do I start?
Contact our team at info@xavioncapital.com or on Telegram @xavioncapital for a free review of your company and banking setup.
Kris , Partner, Xavion Capital
Partner at Xavion Capital. Runs the banking and payment-rails desk: account placement, high-risk onboarding files, and replacement banking after a termination.
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Contact our team today.
Guaranteed banking and payment processing solution for approved businesses. Email info@xavioncapital.com or Telegram @xavioncapital.
This article is general information from Xavion Capital and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. Regulatory treatment of digital assets and market structure varies by jurisdiction and changes frequently. Obtain qualified counsel in each relevant jurisdiction before acting on anything in this guide.