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The short answer
An ITIN filer's refund is usually slower because a first-time or renewal return travels inside the Form W-7 package: the IRS must assign the ITIN, write it on the return and only then process it. The IRS says to allow 7 weeks for the ITIN notice, or 9 to 11 weeks between 15 January and 30 April or if you applied from overseas, and 6 or more weeks for a mailed return's refund. Track progress by phone and, once the return is processed, with Where's My Refund.
If your spouse, parent or you yourself file with an ITIN, you have probably watched friends get refunds in three weeks while yours sits silent. That gap is built into how the IRS handles ITIN applications. Knowing the steps helps you tell a normal delay from a real problem.
Why ITIN returns take longer
The IRS ITIN page (reviewed 28 October 2025) says the tax return goes inside the ITIN application package and should not be filed separately. The IRS assigns the ITIN, writes it on the return and forwards the return for processing. That creates two queues in a row:
- ITIN assignment. Allow 7 weeks for the IRS to notify you, or 9 to 11 weeks during tax season (15 January to 30 April) or if you applied from overseas.
- Return processing. The IRS Refunds page (reviewed 16 October 2026) says to expect a refund 6 or more weeks from when a mailed return is received, compared with about 3 weeks for e-filed returns.
Because the return travels with the paper W-7 application, it is processed as a mailed return. Where's My Refund shows a status only from 4 weeks after a paper return is filed, so an empty tracker in the early weeks is normal.
A planning timeline
Example only. Kemi mails her W-7 with her return on 10 March. The IRS does not publish a combined timeline, but adding its two published windows gives a rough range:
| Stage | Published window | Example dates |
|---|---|---|
| ITIN notice (tax season) | 9 to 11 weeks | 12 May to 26 May |
| Refund on a processed paper return | 6 or more weeks | From late June onwards |
| Where's My Refund first shows status | 4 weeks after paper filing | From about 7 April |
So a refund in July would not, on its own, mean anything has gone wrong for an ITIN filer who mailed in March.
Other reasons for delay
The IRS lists causes that apply to anyone, and some weigh more on ITIN returns:
- Mistakes such as an unsigned return or a maths error.
- Credits needing review. Returns claiming the Additional Child Tax Credit need more time, and EITC refunds are held until mid-February. ITIN holders cannot claim the EITC, and the Child Tax Credit needs a work-valid SSN for the child.
- Credit timing. The ITIN page says the ITIN must be assigned by the return's due date, including extensions, to claim certain credits, such as the credit for other dependants and the American opportunity credit.
- An expired ITIN. The W-7 instructions say an ITIN expires if it is not used on a federal return for three consecutive tax years, and it must be renewed before you file.
- Letters. If the IRS writes asking for more documents, reply promptly with exactly what the letter asks for.
When the ITIN is for a spouse or child in Nigeria
Many Nigerian filers in the US apply for ITINs for a spouse or children who live at home, for example to file jointly. The IRS says applications from overseas take 9 to 11 weeks, the same as tax-season applications, so a family return that adds a spouse in Lagos should be planned on the longer window. The W-7 instructions list the documents accepted: there are 13, and a passport is the only one that proves both identity and foreign status on its own. Sending a current passport rather than a combination of other documents reduces the chance of a query. If a child in Nigeria needs a number to be claimed, check first whether the credit you have in mind accepts an ITIN at all: the IRS Child Tax Credit page requires a work-valid SSN for each child, while the credit for other dependants accepts an ITIN. Our guide to claiming dependants in Nigeria covers who counts.
How to track and who to call
- In the US: 800-829-1040, 7am to 7pm local time.
- From abroad: 267-941-1000 (not toll-free).
- Call if you have not heard within the published ITIN window, or if original documents you mailed have not come back within 60 days.
- Once the return is in processing, use Where's My Refund with your ITIN, filing status and exact refund amount.
To avoid mailing your Nigerian passport, use a Certifying Acceptance Agent or an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centre appointment. The W-7 instructions say Certifying Acceptance Agents can verify passports so originals need not be posted. See who needs an ITIN and how to apply.
What to check first
- The date the IRS received your package (use tracked post).
- Whether you are still inside the 7-week or 9 to 11-week ITIN window.
- Whether your ITIN had expired before you filed.
- Any IRS letter asking for documents.
- Whether you claimed a credit that needs extra review.
Where Pryme fits
When the refund lands, decide first how much stays for bills and how much goes home. A Pryme account holds dollars and naira; Swap shows the rate and the fee before you approve. See multicurrency accounts and planning a refund you send home.
Questions people ask
Why is my ITIN tax refund taking so long?
Because the IRS must first assign the ITIN, which takes about 7 weeks (9 to 11 weeks in tax season or from overseas), before it processes the mailed return, which takes 6 or more weeks.
Can I e-file with an ITIN application?
The IRS says the return goes inside the W-7 package and should not be filed separately, so a first-time or renewal ITIN return is mailed with the application.
When will Where's My Refund show my ITIN return?
For paper returns, the IRS says status is available 4 weeks after filing. ITIN returns may show later because of the assignment step.
Who do I call about an ITIN refund delay?
The IRS at 800-829-1040 in the US, or 267-941-1000 from abroad, if you have not heard within the published window.
Sources
- IRS: Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (reviewed 28 Oct 2025) · accessed Oct 2026
- IRS: Refunds (reviewed 16 Oct 2026) · accessed Oct 2026
- IRS: Instructions for Form W-7 · accessed Oct 2026
- IRS: Child Tax Credit (updated 21 Sep 2026) · accessed Oct 2026
This article is general information, not financial, legal or tax advice. Products described are provided under the terms on this site and are subject to regulation and eligibility.