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@SOAK wrote:

foreign preparers must file paper returns otherwise?

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I could be wrong, but I don't think that is the case.

You need either a Social Security Number or an EIN in order to get an EFIN.

You should be able to get an EIN without a Social Security Number (although if you don't have an ITIN either, I don't think you can apply for the EIN online, so you'll need to apply for the EIN by fax or mail).