Get Foreign EFIN for Tax Professionals
A Foreign EFIN (Electronic Filing Identification Number) is the IRS
identification number that authorises tax professionals based outside
the United States to electronically file US tax returns on behalf of
their clients and eliminating the need to mail paper returns to the IRS.
At Entelyglobal, we handle your entire Foreign EFIN application from
start to finish – qualification review, Form 8633 preparation, IRS
submission, identity verification, and approval – so you can start
e-filing US returns for your clients without navigating complex IRS
paperwork alone.
As an IRS-authorised service provider with 15+ years of experience in
US tax compliance, we serve international accountants, enrolled agents,
and tax firms across 30+ countries.
Mail less. File faster. Own your Foreign EFIN.
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What is a Foreign EFIN number?
A Foreign EFIN is an IRS identification number that allows approved tax professionals based outside the US to electronically file tax returns.
Every return you e-file carries this number, linking it to your firm. Without it, foreign-based preparers must mail paper returns to the IRS – slower for you and your clients. The IRS issues it per firm location and treats foreign applicants under a separate “business-related group” framework, which is why the process differs from a standard domestic EFIN.
Who needs a Foreign EFIN?
You need a Foreign EFIN if you’re a tax professional located outside the US who prepares and files US tax returns for clients and wants to e-file rather than mail paper returns.
That covers accountants and enrolled agents serving American expats, firms handling US real estate investors abroad, and any international tax practice filing 11+ US returns per year. If you’re a domestic US preparer, you’d apply for a standard EFIN instead – see our [EFIN number guide] for that process.
How It Works
Getting a Foreign EFIN through Entelyglobal takes only 3 simple steps. We handle the IRS side, and informed at every stage.
01 - Qualification
02 - Verification
03 - Foreign EFIN Approval
Am I qualified for Foreign EFIN services?
To qualify, you generally need an active PTIN, professional credentials listed with the IRS Return Preparer Office (RPO), and an active business website – plus identity verification.
Qualification checklist:
- Professional qualification – Active PTIN, RPO-listed professional credentials, active business website
- Identity verification – A personal social media profile and a passport copy, confirmed on a video call
- Not an “Online Provider” – Per the IRS definition, an Online Provider is one that lets taxpayers self-prepare returns using commercial software rather than through a professional preparer. Foreign EFIN applicants must be practicing tax professionals, not self file software platforms.
How do I get a Foreign EFIN from the IRS?
We submit an IRS e-file application specifically for a foreign EFIN, including proof of professional qualification and identity verification – the standard domestic process (Form 8633, e-Services account, suitability check) still applies, with additional documentation for foreign-based applicants.
Create an IRS e-Services account – verify identity through ID.me.
Complete Form 8633 (Application to Participate in IRS e-file) – for a foreign EFIN, use your firm’s mailing address but include the physical address of the location the EFIN covers.
Provide professional qualification documentation – active PTIN, RPO-listed credentials, business website.
Pass the suitability check – IRS review of credentials and compliance history.
Receive your EFIN – issued per firm location once approved.
How long does it take to get a Foreign EFIN?
Processing time depends on IRS requirements and document preparation – through a guided application process this typically runs 1–2 weeks, versus a self-filed application which can take significantly longer.
Is an EFIN the same as a PTIN?
EFIN and PTIN are not same. PTIN identifies an individual preparer on the returns they prepare, while an EFIN authorizes a firm or individual to transmit e-filed returns to the IRS. Most paid preparers need both: a PTIN to sign returns, and an EFIN to file them electronically.
| PTIN | EFIN | |
|---|---|---|
| What it identifies | The individual preparer | The firm/filer transmitting returns |
| Who needs it | Anyone paid to prepare returns | Anyone e-filing 11+ returns/year |
| Issued by | IRS (online, same day) | IRS (after suitability check, ~45 days) |
| Renewal | Annual | Not required, unless info changes |
Can I e-file without an EFIN?
The IRS requires an EFIN to transmit e-filed returns directly, though some franchise or software arrangements let preparers file under another firm’s EFIN.
If you’re joining an established tax franchise, check whether you’ll file under the franchise’s EFIN or need to obtain your own – this affects both your timeline and your independence as a preparer.
FAQs
What is a Foreign EFIN?
Can the process be completed online?
Yes – [Entelyglobal] provides a fully digital application process from qualification through approval.
How long does the process take?
Who qualifies for Foreign EFIN services?
What is an EFIN number, generally?
Is an EFIN the same as a PTIN?
Can I e-file without an EFIN?
Ready to apply for your Foreign EFIN?
Entelyglobal guides international tax professionals through the entire Foreign EFIN process – qualification, verification, and IRS approval – so you can start e-filing sooner.