EIN for International Businesses Operating in the USA

Dec. 21, 2025, 6:49 p.m.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a critical requirement for international and foreign-owned businesses that operate, invest, or earn income in the United States. Even without a physical office or US employees, many non-US companies are legally required to obtain an EIN to stay compliant with IRS regulations.
EIN for International Businesses Operating in the USA

What Is an EIN?

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique 9-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business for federal tax purposes. It functions like a business’s tax ID in the United States.

Do International Businesses Need an EIN?

Yes—most international businesses operating in the USA need an EIN, especially if they:

  • Form a US LLC or Corporation

  • Hire US-based employees

  • Open a US business bank account

  • File US federal tax returns

  • Have US-source income

  • Withhold taxes (e.g., payments to vendors or employees)

  • Apply for US business licenses or permits

Even businesses with no physical US presence may still need an EIN.

Common Types of International Businesses That Need an EIN

  • Foreign-owned US LLCs

  • Foreign corporations registered in the US

  • International e-commerce sellers (Amazon, Shopify, etc.)

  • Foreign trucking or logistics companies operating in the US

  • Overseas companies investing in US real estate

  • International startups with US partners or clients

EIN Without an SSN or ITIN

International business owners do NOT need an SSN or ITIN to get an EIN.

Instead, the IRS allows foreign applicants to:

  • Leave the SSN/ITIN field blank

  • Indicate “Foreign” on the EIN application

  • Apply using Form SS-4

This makes EINs accessible to non-US residents.

How to Apply for an EIN as an International Business

Option 1: Apply online at  https://www.einregister.online/

Option 2: Apply by Phone  (502) 547-2551

Information Required to Apply

You’ll need:

  • Legal business name

  • Country of formation

  • Responsible party name

  • Business address (foreign address allowed)

  • Reason for applying (e.g., “Started a new business”)

  • Type of entity (LLC, Corporation, etc.)

EIN vs ITIN vs SSN (Quick Comparison)

ID Type Purpose
EIN Business tax identification
ITIN Individual tax ID for non-US persons
SSN US citizen or resident personal ID

 An EIN does not replace an ITIN or SSN, and vice versa.

What Can You Do With an EIN?

With an EIN, international businesses can:

  • File US federal tax returns

  • Open US bank accounts

  • Apply for licenses and permits

  • Register for payroll and sales taxes

  • Establish US business credit

  • Comply with IRS reporting rules

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using personal information instead of business details

  • Applying for multiple EINs unnecessarily

  • Selecting the wrong entity type on Form SS-4

  • Assuming an EIN eliminates US tax obligations (it doesn’t)

Key Takeaways

  • International businesses operating in the USA often must obtain an EIN

  • No SSN or ITIN is required

  • EINs are essential for taxes, banking, and compliance

  • Applying correctly the first time avoids delays and IRS issues

 

https://www.irs.gov/about-irs