If you’re a non-U.S. resident or foreign national who needs to file U.S. taxes or run a U.S.-based business, you may be required to submit an ITIN registration form. That form is called IRS Form W-7.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- What the ITIN registration form is
- Who needs it and why
- Step-by-step instructions on how to fill it
- What documents you need to include
- How to file and how long it takes
What Is the ITIN Registration Form?
The ITIN registration form is officially known as IRS Form W-7. It’s used to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) — a 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to people who need to file or report U.S. taxes but are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN).
Purpose of Form W-7:
- Identify non-resident and foreign taxpayers
- Enable tax return filing
- Comply with U.S. tax law
Who Needs to File IRS Form W-7?
You must complete and file Form W-7 if:
- You’re a non-U.S. resident earning U.S. income
- You’re a foreign owner of a U.S. LLC
- You’re filing Form 1040-NR or any other U.S. tax return
- You’re applying for tax treaty benefits
- You’re a dependent or spouse of a U.S. taxpayer without an SSN
- You’re required to submit an EIN + ITIN combo for Stripe or PayPal
How to Fill Out the ITIN Registration Form (Form W-7)
Step 1: Download the Form
Get the latest version from the IRS website.
Step 2: Fill Out These Key Sections:
Line 1a – Full name (as it appears on your passport)
Line 1b – Name at birth (if different)
Line 2 – Home address outside the U.S.
Line 3 – U.S. mailing address (can be a Registered Agent or virtual address)
Line 4 – Birth information (Date, country, gender)
Line 5 – Country(ies) of citizenship
Line 6a–6g – Immigration and identification documents (passport details, visa, etc.)
Line 6c – Type of document submitted (passport is most common)
Reason for Applying – Check the correct box (typically Box a or b)
- “a” = Non-resident alien required to obtain ITIN for U.S. tax return
- “b” = U.S. resident alien (based on days in U.S.) filing a tax return
Supporting Documents Required
To successfully register for an ITIN, include original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency:
- Passport (most preferred, as it proves both identity and foreign status)
- National ID, visa, birth certificate (if applicable)
- U.S. tax return (unless applying under an exemption)
Note: Notarized copies are not accepted unless certified by the issuing agency or U.S. embassy.
How to Submit the ITIN Registration Form
You can submit Form W-7 in three ways:
Option 1: By Mail
Mail the form, tax return, and documents to:
IRS ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
USA
Option 2: Through a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA)
They verify your identity and submit everything for you. Best for non-U.S. applicants.
Option 3: In-Person at IRS Office (U.S. residents only)
Schedule an appointment at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
How Long Does It Take?
- By Mail: 7–11 weeks (longer outside the U.S.)
- Via CAA: 4–6 weeks on average
- You’ll receive a CP 565 letter with your ITIN once approved
Tips for a Successful ITIN Registration
- Use a valid U.S. mailing address to avoid delivery issues
- Double-check all names and passport numbers
- Do not use expired documents
- If rejected, you’ll receive a letter explaining what needs correction
How FormLLC Can Help
We help you register a U.S. LLC + apply for EIN and assist you with ITIN registration through certified acceptance agents.
Included in our service:
- LLC formation in any U.S. state
- EIN in 24–48 hours
- BOI Report Filing
- Free U.S. address & registered agent
- ITIN form review and submission support
- Bank account assistance (Mercury, Wise, Relay)
Contact Us:
Email: contact@formllc.us
Website: www.formllc.us
WhatsApp: +91 6202619173, +1 3322662187
Summary: ITIN Registration Form (W-7)
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Form Name | IRS Form W-7 |
| Purpose | Register for an ITIN (taxpayer ID for non-residents) |
| Required For | Non-residents filing U.S. taxes or owning U.S. businesses |
| Documents Needed | Passport (or other ID), Tax Return |
| Submission Options | By Mail, IRS Office, or CAA |
| Processing Time | 4–11 weeks |
