ITIN request
(W7)

Timing

6–8 weeks (standard) or 3–4 weeks (with certified acceptance agent verification)

If You Do It Yourself

Free — the IRS does not charge a filing fee

Delivery

IRS-issued ITIN confirmation letter (CP 565) by mail

Eligibility

A nonresident alien required to file a U.S. tax return. A U.S. resident alien (based on days present in the U.S.) filing a U.S. tax return. A dependent or spouse of a U.S. citizen or resident. A foreign investor, contractor, or business owner needing a U.S. tax ID for IRS compliance. No U.S. visa, residency, or citizenship is required.

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN). It allows you to file federal tax returns, open U.S. bank accounts, and comply with IRS reporting requirements — even if you are a non-U.S. resident, foreign investor, or dependent.

Book a Consultation

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The consultation fee is applied toward your total service fee if you proceed with the services.

If the consultation is the only service provided, the fee remains non-refundable, as professional time, analysis, and guidance are delivered during the session.

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DIY Step-by-Step Guide
(No agent or lawyer)

Download IRS Form W-7

Cost:Free — the IRS does not charge a filing fee
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw7.pdf

Gather Required Supporting Documents

Original or certified copies of your passport or two alternate IDs proving identity and foreign status.

Your federal tax return (Form 1040, 1040-NR, or 1040-SR) — unless you qualify under an exception.

A completed W-7 form with all required fields filled accurately and legibly.

If applicable, include a U.S. visa, scholarship letter, or tax treaty statement.

Complete Form W-7 Carefully

Enter your full legal name as shown on your passport.

Use a valid foreign address (if applicable) and U.S. mailing address for correspondence.

Select the correct reason for applying (e.g., “Nonresident alien required to obtain ITIN to claim tax treaty benefit”).

Include your date of entry to the U.S. if you’ve been physically present.

Submit Your Application to the IRS

Choose one of three methods

By Mail
Send your completed Form W-7, tax return, and original/certified documents to:
‍
Internal Revenue Service
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342 USA
‍
Processing time: 6–8 weeks.
Cost: Free (postage and notarization costs may apply).

In Person (U.S. Only)
Apply through an IRS-authorized Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) or Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).
‍
Find one near you:
https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-my-local-office-internationally
‍
Cost: Varies by location (typically $50–$150 for certification).

Through a CAA Abroad
Non-U.S. residents can submit documents through a foreign-based Certified Acceptance Agent to avoid mailing passports.
‍
Cost: Varies. Typically $100–$250 depending on the provider.

Receive Your ITIN

If approved, the IRS will mail your ITIN assignment letter (Form CP 565) to your provided U.S. mailing address.
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Processing usually takes 6–8 weeks (faster with CAA assistance).

Common Mistakes People Make

Submitting incomplete or uncertified identification documents.

Forgetting to include a federal tax return (required in most cases).

Using an expired passport or invalid foreign ID.

Sending photocopies instead of certified copies from the issuing agency.

Not signing or dating the Form W-7.

Documents & Information Needed

Thank you! Your submission has been received!