🔍 ITIN Application FAQ – Brivisto

Helping You Apply for an ITIN — Even Without a Valid Visa

At Brivisto, we specialize in helping individuals apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) — even in complicated or unusual cases that many immigration attorneys overlook or consider ineligible. Whether you're new to the U.S., overstayed a visa, or have no current immigration status, we understand how to work within IRS guidelines to help you obtain your ITIN legally, quickly, and safely.

1. What is an ITIN, and why do I need one?

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a number issued by the IRS to individuals who are required to file a tax return but are not eligible for a Social Security Number. It's essential for:

  • Filing taxes legally

  • Opening bank accounts

  • Building personal credit

  • Purchasing a car or home

  • Starting a business

  • Applying for residency in the future

An ITIN is not immigration status, but it’s a critical step in establishing financial and legal identity in the U.S.

2. Can I apply for an ITIN if I don’t have a valid visa or legal status?

Yes — and this is where Brivisto stands out.

Many immigration attorneys mistakenly believe you must have valid immigration status to apply for an ITIN. That’s not true. The IRS issues ITINs based on tax purpose, not immigration status. In fact, many undocumented individuals — including those who overstayed a visa — are legally eligible to receive an ITIN.

At Brivisto, we know the specific exceptions and lesser-known IRS-approved reasons you can still use to apply — even if you:

  • Overstayed your visa

  • Are currently undocumented

  • Entered without inspection

  • Have a pending immigration case

  • Have no U.S. ID or license

We help you navigate the system, legally and correctly.

3. What documents do I need to apply for an ITIN?

The standard requirements include:

  • A completed W-7 Form

  • Valid supporting identification (e.g., passport or national ID)

  • A federal tax return, unless applying under certain exceptions

But many clients don’t know how to meet these requirements — especially if they lack a valid ID, visa, or legal presence. Brivisto helps you:

  • Determine which exception codes apply to you

  • Prepare alternative documentation where allowed

  • Avoid common rejections that delay processing

  • Submit everything properly to the IRS

4. What if I don’t have a passport or valid ID?

That’s okay — in many cases, alternative identification can be used, especially for dependents or those applying under certain exceptions.

As a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) registered with the IRS, Brivisto can verify your identity without requiring you to mail in original documents. This makes the process faster, safer, and more secure.

We also guide you on how to obtain acceptable documents from your home country or through consulates, if needed.

5. How is Brivisto different from tax offices or immigration lawyers?

Here’s where we shine:

  • Tax preparers often don’t understand immigration complexities

  • Immigration lawyers often don’t understand IRS loopholes

  • Online services like TurboTax don’t help undocumented individuals at all

Brivisto is the bridge between the two. We combine:

  • IRS registration as a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA)

  • In-depth knowledge of immigration-related tax needs

  • Years of experience helping undocumented and ITIN clients succeed

  • A personal, respectful approach — we never judge, we only help

We’ve successfully filed ITIN applications for clients most others turned away.

6. How long does the ITIN process take?

The IRS typically processes ITIN applications within 7 to 11 weeks. However, delays are common if documents are incomplete or incorrect — which is why our guidance makes a major difference.

As a CAA, we verify and submit directly, helping avoid delays from document rejection or identity verification issues.

7. Can an ITIN help me later with immigration?

Absolutely. While an ITIN does not provide legal status, it demonstrates a history of tax compliance — which is extremely important if you later:

  • Apply for a visa or green card

  • Adjust your immigration status

  • Need to prove residency, community ties, or financial responsibility

Brivisto can also help you establish a business or build personal credit with your ITIN — showing further financial responsibility that supports future immigration efforts.

8. What if I’ve already been denied an ITIN before?

We can help. Many ITIN applications are denied for:

  • Incorrect forms

  • Missing documents

  • Invalid reason codes

  • Unclear tax purpose

We review your previous application and correct the issues that led to denial. Many clients come to us after being told “you don’t qualify” — only to be approved with our help.

💬 Still Have Questions or Ready to Start?

Your immigration status shouldn’t stop you from taking control of your financial future. Let Brivisto guide you through the ITIN process with clarity, compassion, and real results.

📞 Call today for a free consultation: 848.668.4151
🌐 Visit us online: www.brivisto.com