Introduction
Applying for an ITIN is straightforward when you know what to prepare. Most applicants only need a clear passport copy to get started. Once payment is completed, you submit your documents, we prepare and mail the application, and the IRS issues your ITIN.
This guide walks through each step so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Complete Payment
Payment must come first. Before any documents are reviewed or processed, the application fee must be paid through our website.
We offer multiple payment methods including credit card and digital wallet. If the primary payment link fails, use the backup link — both lead to the same process.
After payment, you'll be redirected to the document submission page. A confirmation email with the same link will also be sent to your inbox. Only submit once — there's no need to fill out the form twice.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
For most applicants, the only required document is a clear passport copy.
A scan is preferred, but a photo works if it meets these requirements:
- Full passport page visible, including all four edges
- All text and numbers are clearly readable
- No fingers, shadows, or blur covering any part of the page
A common mistake is cropping the passport photo too tightly. Submit the complete page on the first attempt — unclear images can cause the IRS to request a new copy later, which delays your application.
A U.S. visa is optional. Not having one does not disqualify your ITIN application.
Step 3: Submit Information and Pass Internal Review
After submitting your documents, we review everything before preparing the application.
Make sure your home address is complete — including street, city, country, and postal code. Missing address information is one of the most common reasons we need to follow up.
During review, we check:
- Passport image quality and completeness
- Personal information accuracy
- Name spelling and format matching the passport exactly
If anything needs clarification, we'll email you before proceeding. This review step prevents errors from reaching the IRS and avoids costly delays.
Step 4: Prepare Form W-7 and Supporting Documents
Once the review is complete, we prepare Form W-7 — the official IRS form for ITIN applications — along with the identity verification document and passport copy.
If there's anything requiring your confirmation (such as exact name formatting), we'll send you the completed form for a final check before mailing.
Step 5: Mail the Application to the IRS
After the package is finalized, we print and mail it to the IRS.
You'll receive a tracking number so you can confirm it's on the way. Delivery to the IRS typically takes 3 to 4 days.
Step 6: IRS Processing and ITIN Issuance
Once the IRS receives your application, processing begins. Current processing times range from 35 to 78 days depending on IRS workload — this timeline is set by the IRS and cannot be expedited.
When your ITIN is approved, we'll notify you by email and send the official IRS approval notice as an attachment.
Summary
- Complete payment
- Submit a clear passport copy
- Pass internal document review
- We prepare Form W-7 and mail the package
- IRS processes and issues your ITIN (35–78 days)
A clear passport and complete address are the two factors that most affect processing speed. Get those right and the rest follows smoothly.
Ready to apply? Start your ITIN application here.