A step-by-step checklist for non-residents applying for an EIN without a US SSN or address.
January 16, 2026
5 min read
How to Apply for an EIN as a Foreign Owner
Getting an EIN is often the first compliance hurdle for international founders. You can apply without an SSN, but you need to complete Form SS-4 correctly.
What you need before you start
Gather these details:
LLC legal name and mailing address.
Responsible party name and foreign address.
Date the LLC was formed.
Primary business activity and NAICS code.
Prepare Form SS-4
Step-by-step SS-4 checklist
Line 1: Enter the LLC legal name.
Line 2: Leave blank unless you have a trade name.
Line 7a-7b: Use the foreign owner name and "Foreign" for the tax ID field.
Line 9a: Check "Other" and write "Foreign-owned US LLC."
Line 10: Use "Compliance with IRS requirements" as the reason.
Line 18: Mark "No" if you have no employees.
How to submit
Most non-resident owners fax or mail Form SS-4. The IRS also accepts phone applications in limited cases.
Double-check line 7b. Writing "Foreign" (instead of leaving it blank) helps avoid rejections.
After you receive the EIN
Store the EIN letter digitally. You will need it for:
Bank account opening.
Form 5472 and pro forma 1120.
State annual reports.
How ForeignOwnedLLC speeds this up
ForeignOwnedLLC generates SS-4 data from your LLC profile and gives you a clean checklist so you can submit the EIN quickly.
