How Nonresident Aliens Can Get an ITIN Before Tax Season

How Nonresident Aliens Can Get an ITIN Before Tax Season

If you’re a nonresident alien in the United States, it’s essential to stay compliant with the IRS — and that starts with having the right tax identification number.

When filing your U.S. tax return, you’ll need either a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

If you’re not eligible for an SSN, you’ll need to apply for an ITIN — and doing it before tax season can save you time and stress.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to apply for an ITIN as a nonresident alien, including the process, documents, and timeline.

🧾 Why Am I Not Eligible for a Social Security Number?

Generally, if you’re not authorized to work in the U.S. by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), you cannot get an SSN.

You can get one if you are:

  • An F-1 student with on-campus or authorized off-campus employment

  • A J-1 student or scholar with employment authorization

  • A J-2 spouse with USCIS work approval

If none of these apply, you’ll need an ITIN instead.

💡 What Is an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)?

An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS for tax processing purposes.
It’s used by nonresidents who are not eligible for an SSN but need to file U.S. taxes or meet other IRS reporting requirements.

💰 Why Do I Need an ITIN?

You’ll need an ITIN if you:

  • Have U.S. income and must file a tax return (Form 1040-NR)

  • Want to open a bank account in the U.S.

  • Are hired as a contractor or freelancer

  • Need to claim a tax treaty benefit or receive a refund

Having an ITIN ensures your taxes are filed correctly and that you remain IRS compliant.

🌍 Can a Nonresident Get an ITIN?

Yes.
Both resident and nonresident aliens can apply for an ITIN if they have a U.S. tax reporting requirement, regardless of immigration status.

It can also serve as a form of identification for banking or loan applications.

🕓 When Should I Apply for an ITIN?

Apply as soon as you have a tax filing obligation — don’t wait until the tax deadline.
ITIN applications are accepted year-round, but processing times are much faster outside of tax season.

✅ How to Qualify for an ITIN

You qualify if you:

  • Are a foreign national with a U.S. tax filing requirement

  • Are not eligible for a Social Security Number

📝 How to Get an ITIN as a Nonresident Alien

To apply, you’ll need to:

  1. Complete and sign Form W-7

  2. Provide proof of identity and foreign status (passport, visa, DS-2019, or I-20)

📦 ITIN Application Options

Option 1: Apply Before Filing Your Tax Return

  • Complete Form W-7

  • Include certified copies of your passport and visa

  • Add a certification letter from your school or institution (if applicable)

  • Mail everything to:

Option 2: Apply Alongside Your Tax Return

Include the following when mailing your application:

  • Form 1040-NR (your federal tax return)

  • Signed Form W-7

  • Certified copy of your passport

Certification can be done by:

  • A Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA)

  • A U.S. Embassy or Consulate

  • The government department that issued your ID

📑 Required Information and Documents

When completing Form W-7, you’ll need:

  • Your name, address, and date of birth

  • Your country of citizenship

  • A foreign tax ID (if applicable)

  • Your U.S. visa number (if applicable)

📘 Acceptable identity documents include:

  • Passport (primary document)

  • National ID card

  • Driver’s license (U.S. or foreign)

  • Birth certificate

  • Visa

  • School or medical records (for dependents)

⏳ How Long Does It Take to Get an ITIN?

  • Peak tax season (Jan–Apr): up to 5 months

  • Off-season: about 7 weeks

That’s why it’s best to apply early to ensure you have your ITIN before filing your tax return.

🗓️ Why You Should Apply Before Tax Season

ITIN applications submitted early are processed faster — helping you avoid delays and ensuring you’re ready to file your tax return before April 15.

As noted by international advisors, submitting outside peak season can cut waiting times by over 50%.

Having your ITIN early also helps you receive your refund sooner.

💼 How J1 Summer Tax Back Can Help

At J1 Summer Tax Back, we simplify the ITIN application process for nonresidents.

We can help you:

  • ✅ Prepare Form W-7 correctly

  • ✅ Collect and verify all required documents

  • ✅ File your ITIN alongside your tax return

  • ✅ Avoid errors and delays with expert support

Our goal is to ensure every nonresident — whether student, trainee, or professional — can file confidently and stay fully compliant with the IRS.