How Long Does an ITIN Take in 2026?

If you need an ITIN, plan ahead. Unlike an EIN, which can arrive within weeks, an ITIN is processed manually by a specialised IRS unit and takes about two to three months in most cases. This guide sets realistic expectations and explains how to avoid the delays that turn two months into six.

Typical processing times

The IRS generally aims to process ITIN applications within about 7 weeks. In practice:

These are estimates. The IRS sets its own timelines and workloads change from year to year.

Why ITINs take longer than EINs

• Manual review. Every ITIN application is reviewed by IRS staff who check identity and foreign status documents.
• Document handling. Original or certified documents have to be examined, and if originals are sent, returned.
• Linked tax returns. Most applications are attached to a tax return, which is processed together with the ITIN.
• Seasonal volume. Tax season brings a surge in applications.

What slows applications down

1. Missing documents or signatures. The most common issue.
2. Documents that do not meet requirements. For example, ordinary photocopies instead of originals or certified copies.
3. Inconsistent details. A name spelled differently, a different date of birth, or a different address across documents.
4. No valid reason to apply. ITINs are issued for a tax purpose. An application without proper support is suspended or rejected.
5. Applying at the worst time. Filing in February or March adds weeks.

What happens if your application is rejected

The IRS sends a letter explaining the reason. Usually the application has to be corrected and resubmitted, which restarts the clock. A rejection followed by a resubmission can easily turn a two-month process into five. That is why preparation matters more than anything else.

How to get it right the first time

• Use a Certifying Acceptance Agent. A CAA reviews the application, verifies your passport and usually saves you from posting the original. See Certifying Acceptance Agents explained.
• Make sure you qualify and that your reason for applying is properly documented.
• Check every detail against your passport: name order, spelling and date of birth.
• Avoid peak season if your timeline allows. Applications submitted between May and December often move faster.
• Keep copies of everything submitted.

Checking the status

Once enough time has passed, the status of an application can be checked with the IRS. If you apply through us, we track your application and follow up for you, so you do not have to.

What to do while you wait

You do not need an ITIN to form your company, get its EIN or, in many cases, open a business bank account. Do not hold your business back waiting for the ITIN. Our combined packages run the company formation and the ITIN application in parallel. See what is an ITIN and do you need one.

Renewals take similar time

An ITIN that has not been used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years expires and must be renewed before it can be used again. Renewals follow a similar process and timeline. See ITIN renewal.

How UCB helps

Our ITIN service ($249) includes checking your eligibility, preparing the application and supporting documents, coordinating document verification, submitting it, and following up with the IRS until your ITIN letter arrives. We also prepare the tax return the application is attached to, when one is needed.

See the ITIN service.

Need an ITIN and want it done right the first time? WhatsApp us at +91 8105 199 399 or email info@ucbsolutions.com.