Who Can Apply for ITIN in the USA? A Guide for Non-U.S. Residents in Egypt

If you’re living in Egypt and have U.S. income, investments, or family ties in the United States, you might have come across the term ITIN — short for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

But the question most people ask is: Who can apply for ITIN in the USA — and how do I know if I qualify?

This guide from Precision Accounting Intl breaks it all down in simple terms. You’ll learn who needs an ITIN, how to apply from Egypt, and how it helps you stay compliant with U.S. tax laws without sending your passport to the United States.

Apply for ITIN Services in Egypt

What Is an ITIN and Why Is It Important?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit tax ID issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who need a U.S. taxpayer number but are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN).

Think of it as your tax identity for the U.S. — even if you don’t live there. It allows you to file taxes, open U.S. bank accounts, and receive tax refunds.

If you’re unsure what ITIN really means or how it differs from an SSN, check our related guide:
 What Is ITIN Service in Egypt

Who Can Apply for ITIN in the USA?

The IRS issues ITINs to people who need to report or file U.S. taxes but are not eligible for a Social Security Number.

Below are the main groups who can apply for ITIN:

1. Non-U.S. Residents with U.S. Income

If you’re a nonresident alien who earns income from a U.S. source — such as real estate, investments, or freelance work — you’ll need an ITIN to file your U.S. tax return.
Examples include:

• Egyptian investors owning rental property in the U.S.
• Freelancers or consultants working remotely for American clients
• Individuals receiving dividends or royalties from U.S. entities

2. Spouses or Dependents of U.S. Citizens or Residents

If your spouse or parent is a U.S. citizen or green card holder, and you’re included in their tax return, you’ll also need an ITIN.
This situation is common when:

• A U.S. resident files a joint return with a nonresident spouse
• Parents claim their foreign-born children as dependents

3. Students, Researchers, and Exchange Visitors

If you’re an Egyptian student or scholar in the U.S. on an F, J, or M visa and not eligible for an SSN, you can apply for an ITIN to comply with tax reporting obligations.
This includes:

• Scholarship recipients
• Research assistants
• Exchange program participants

4. Foreign Investors in U.S. Real Estate

Under FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act), foreign investors selling or renting U.S. real estate must file a U.S. tax return. An ITIN is mandatory for:

• Filing the FIRPTA withholding
• Claiming a refund if over-withheld

This is one of the most common reasons Egyptians apply for ITIN through Precision Accounting Intl.

5. Foreign Business Owners and Contractors

If you run a business that deals with U.S. clients or receives payments from U.S. companies, you’ll need an ITIN to meet Form W-8 or 1099 reporting requirements.

Having an ITIN ensures:

• Proper withholding of U.S. taxes
• Smooth international business transactions
• Compliance with IRS documentation

Why Non-U.S. Residents in Egypt Need an ITIN

Many Egyptians earning U.S. income believe they don’t need to file taxes because they live outside the U.S. — but that’s a common misconception.

Here’s why obtaining an ITIN is essential:

• Avoid IRS Penalties: Filing correctly prevents unnecessary withholding or fines.
• Claim Tax Refunds: You can recover taxes withheld by U.S. payers.
• Stay Legally Compliant: You’ll have official IRS documentation for income reporting.
• Open U.S. Bank Accounts: Some U.S. banks allow ITIN holders to open accounts.
• Build Financial Credibility: An ITIN helps create a U.S. financial profile for future investments.

Documents Required to Apply for an ITIN

To apply for an ITIN, you’ll need to submit Form W-7 and supporting identity documents.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s required:

Note: Precision Accounting Intl is an IRS-Certified Acceptance Agent — meaning we can verify your passport locally in Egypt and submit your ITIN application without mailing your original documents to the U.S.

How to Apply for ITIN from Egypt

Applying for an ITIN from Egypt can be confusing — but with expert help, it’s straightforward.
Here’s how the process works:

1. Consult with an Acceptance Agent:
   Speak to a certified agent at Precision Accounting Intl to confirm your eligibility and documentation.
2. Prepare Your Documents:
   Gather your passport, visa, and relevant U.S. tax papers.
3. Complete IRS Form W-7:
   The form must be filled accurately with correct foreign address and tax purpose.
4. Identity Verification:
   Instead of sending your passport to the U.S., we handle identity verification locally in Egypt.
5. Submission to the IRS:
   Once verified, your ITIN package is securely submitted for processing.
6. Receive Your ITIN:
   The IRS typically issues ITINs within 6–12 weeks.

Common Mistakes When Applying for ITIN

Even small errors can delay your application. Avoid these common issues:

• Missing or expired passport
• Incorrect tax purpose or category on Form W-7
• Missing original signatures
• Using unauthorized agents or mail services
• Not attaching a tax return when required

Working with Precision Accounting Intl ensures every step is compliant and smooth.

Benefits of Applying for ITIN Through Precision Accounting Intl (Egypt)

Choosing the right ITIN service provider makes all the difference.

Here’s why hundreds of clients across Egypt trust Precision Accounting Intl:

• IRS-Certified Acceptance Agent – No need to send your passport abroad.
• Local Support in Egypt – Personalized help in your language and time zone.
• End-to-End Service – From document preparation to IRS submission.
• Safe & Confidential – Your data and identity stay secure.
• Fast Turnaround – We streamline every step to avoid IRS delays.

Ready to apply?
 Apply for ITIN Services in Egypt

ITIN vs. SSN: What’s the Difference?

If you’re not eligible for an SSN, an ITIN is your official path to handle any U.S. tax matter legally.

How Long Does It Take to Get an ITIN in Egypt?

On average, it takes 6 to 8 weeks after submission.
However, applications filed through certified acceptance agents (like Precision Accounting Intl) are usually processed faster because:

• Documents are pre-verified
• Errors are corrected before submission
• Direct IRS channels are used

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I apply for ITIN if I don’t have U.S. income yet?

You must have a valid tax purpose — such as being claimed as a dependent, filing a return, or owning U.S. property.

2. Is ITIN renewal required?

Yes, ITINs expire if not used for three consecutive years or if issued before 2013.

3. Can ITIN holders work in the U.S.?

No. ITINs are for tax purposes only, not for employment authorization.

4. Can I open a U.S. bank account with ITIN?

Some U.S. banks accept ITINs for account setup, particularly for foreign investors.

5. How can I check my ITIN status?

Your tax preparer or agent can track it with the IRS once submitted.

Simplify Your ITIN Application from Egypt

Applying for an ITIN from Egypt doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing.
With Precision Accounting Intl, you get:

• Certified local support
• Secure document verification
• Fast, compliant application submission

Whether you’re a foreign investor, freelancer, or dependent, obtaining your ITIN is the first step toward legal, transparent U.S. tax compliance.

Get started today:
Apply for ITIN Services in Egypt