Getting a Tax Number Abroad

Getting a Tax Number Abroad
  • 14 August 2025

A tax number is a unique identification number issued by the government of a country that allows individuals or businesses to legally carry out financial operations. It is essential for anyone looking to set up a company, earn income, open a bank account, issue invoices, or conduct business operations abroad.

For digital entrepreneurs, exporters, Amazon or Etsy sellers, service providers, and freelancers operating internationally, obtaining a tax number abroad is a foundational requirement. It is not only about tax payments but also about legitimacy, platform access, and business continuity.

When Do You Need a Foreign Tax Number?

You may need to obtain a foreign tax number in various business scenarios such as:

  • Selling on platforms like Amazon.com, Amazon Europe, Etsy

  • Setting up a company in the US, UK, or EU countries

  • Earning income from freelance work, SaaS, or consultancy

  • Using global payment systems like Stripe, PayPal Business, Paddle

  • Opening a foreign bank account

  • Expanding business operations internationally

  • Registering for tax efficiency or VAT compliance

Marcaworld helps you identify the most suitable country for your business and handles the entire process of obtaining your tax number professionally and efficiently.

Most Common Countries and Tax Systems

There are several countries where entrepreneurs commonly apply for tax numbers, depending on their business needs. Here are some of the most popular:

United States (EIN – Employer Identification Number)

The EIN is issued by the IRS and is one of the most commonly requested tax numbers for international entrepreneurs. It is used for:

  • LLC, C-Corp, S-Corp entities

  • Selling on Amazon.com

  • Verifying accounts on Stripe and similar payment platforms

  • Opening a US-based business bank account

Marcaworld submits your EIN application directly to the IRS and ensures it is processed quickly and correctly.

United Kingdom (UTR – Unique Taxpayer Reference)

The UTR is issued by HMRC and is required for:

  • Limited companies registered in the UK

  • Filing annual tax returns

  • Amazon.co.uk and UK-based platform compliance

Estonia (Registry Code + VAT Number)

Estonia’s e-Residency program allows digital entrepreneurs to establish a company and receive a tax ID remotely. The VAT number is used for:

  • Cross-border digital services within the EU

  • Amazon Europe and other EU marketplaces

  • EU-wide VAT declarations

Germany, Netherlands, Ireland and Other EU Countries

EU-based companies are required to obtain a VAT number and, in many cases, additional corporate tax or income tax numbers. These tax numbers are necessary for:

  • Selling on Amazon Europe

  • Claiming VAT refunds

  • Conducting intra-EU trade

  • Avoiding double taxation

Marcaworld helps you select the right jurisdiction and manage the full tax registration process in line with your business goals.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Tax Number?

The time required to obtain a tax number varies by country:

  • USA (EIN): Typically 1–2 business days if submitted correctly

  • UK (UTR): May take 1–2 weeks

  • Estonia (VAT Number): A few days post company setup

  • Germany/Ireland/Netherlands: May range from 2 to 4 weeks

Accurate documentation and proper submission are key to speeding up the process. Marcaworld handles all communication with the relevant tax authorities to ensure a smooth and fast experience.

Documents Required to Obtain a Tax Number

While each country has different rules, generally you will need:

  • A copy of your passport or national ID

  • Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)

  • Company registration documents (if applicable)

  • Certificate of incorporation or articles of association

  • Power of attorney (if Marcaworld is applying on your behalf)

Marcaworld prepares and organizes all required documents and coordinates with government offices for a successful application.

How Are Tax Numbers Used in Digital Services?

Tax numbers are often required by platforms offering digital services, especially for global compliance. Examples include:

  • PayPal Business: Requires a valid foreign tax ID for cross-border transactions

  • Stripe: Requires a tax number to verify your business

  • Paddle: Demands a VAT number for sellers of digital goods

  • Shopify Payments: Tax number required for payment processing in some countries

A valid tax number also enables access to VAT exemptions, correct tax reporting, and compliance with platform regulations. Marcaworld ensures that your tax ID is fully integrated with your accounts and systems.

Double Taxation and Turkey’s Tax Agreements

Turkey has signed double taxation agreements with many countries. These agreements help ensure that:

  • You don’t pay taxes twice on the same income (once in Turkey, once abroad)

  • You can deduct foreign-paid taxes in your Turkish filings

  • You remain compliant while expanding internationally

It is important that all income generated with a foreign tax number is properly declared in Turkey. Marcaworld offers ongoing accounting and tax advisory to ensure your obligations are fully met.

Tax Number and International Payment Systems

Most cross-border payment platforms require a verified tax number. Without it, you may face limitations such as:

  • Account verification failures

  • Delays in receiving payments

  • Withheld funds or restricted usage

  • Compliance audits by platforms

Marcaworld helps you not only obtain the right tax number but also use it effectively in your Stripe, PayPal, Wise, Payoneer, or Paddle accounts—enabling smooth and uninterrupted business operations.

Secure and Fast Tax Number Registration with Marcaworld

Obtaining a foreign tax number may sound complicated, especially when dealing with unfamiliar regulations, language barriers, and bureaucratic delays. However, with the right support, this process becomes straightforward.

Marcaworld provides:

  • Country selection tailored to your business model

  • Complete document preparation and submission

  • Communication with tax authorities

  • Fast-track processing and updates

  • Tax ID integration with platforms

  • Accounting and legal guidance post-registration

Whether you want to sell online, receive international payments, or expand your business globally, a foreign tax number is your first legal step. Marcaworld helps you take that step safely, quickly, and professionally.

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