Certified Passport Copy for Applying ITIN

[vn1295]

I need to apply ITIN for my Indian Born Son. IRS has revised its rules this year as we have to submit either original passport or certified copy from issuing authority.

I don't want to take a risk by submitting the original passport. So the second option is I need to get certified copy from issuing authority.

I checked in Indian consulate websites there is no such concept called certifying the documents. But they are attesting the documents like passport.

So if i get an attestation from Indian embassy, can it be considered as Certified Copy ?

Regards

Nataraj

[binoca82]

Not sure whether you have seen these links in the irs site. We have an option to get the passports verified in some designated IRS offices. See the list in the links.

http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/2013-ITIN-Updated-Procedures-Frequently-Asked-Questions

http://www.irs.gov/uac/Contact-Your-Local-IRS-Office-1

http://www.irs.gov/uac/TAC-Locations-Where-In-Person-Document-Verification-is-Provided

[kadavulae]

Guys,

I went through this process last week. I can provide the informtion you are looking for.

I need to apply ITIN for my son (who was born in india). When you are applying ITIN, passport is required. below are the various options...

Option 1. IRS needs original passport to be mailed to them

I dont want to send original passport in mail. (although IRS is safe in returning orginal documents, IRS promises to return in 60 days. if there is an emergency, and you are required to travel to india, then you are struck)

Option 2. IRS needs certified passport (certified by indian consolate).

This option is useful for those who in indian consolate vicintiy.

Option 3. Go to local IRS office,

This is the best option. Locate your local IRS center from the links below...

http://www.irs.gov/uac/Contact-Your-Local-IRS-Office-1

http://www.irs.gov/uac/TAC-Locations-Where-In-Person-Document-Verification-is-Provided

Go to the local IRS office with original passport (to whom you gonna apply ITIN), completed ITIN application (W-7), compelted federal tax returns(1040). The person to whom you gonna apply ITIN should also be present physically.

Officer verify the passport and they return the orginial passport back to you immediately. so you will get the passport back immediately. They accept your w-7 and 1040, and forward it to the itin (and tax) processing center.

You will receive the ITIN in 4-6 weeks.

Note : Local IRS offices are always crowded. I spent 2.5 hours. Also you cant make an appointment. Plan accordingly.

[saaniya]

Hi:

 

I wanted to confirm if they are accepting the process of going to Local IRS office with original passport for verification instead of sending it through mail for application of ITIN for spouse.

They mention it in this link here, but want to be sure:

 

http://www.irs.gov/uac/Services-Provided-SIX

 

Thanks

Saaniya