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Verify with ID.me using a non-U.S. passport

You can complete identity verification with ID.me using a valid foreign (non-U.S.) passport and proof of your international address. This article explains how.

Documents you need for international verification

To verify your identity you will need the following:

  • Your valid (unexpired), non-U.S passport that clearly shows your passport ID number
  • An approved “address document” that shows the same international address that you will enter during verification. Commonly-used, eligible documents include bank statements, electric bills, valid and unexpired driver’s licenses, pay stubs, etc.

1. Start ID.me verification using a non-U.S. passport

To get started:

  1. Go to the website of the organization or agency you need to verify for, and select the ID.me button.
  2. Sign in to your existing ID.me account or create a new account.
  3. Complete multi-factor authentication (MFA) or add MFA to protect your account.
  4. Select I don’t live in the United States or I don’t have the above documents. Do not select Self-Service or Video Chat Agent.
    Screenshot showing self-service and video chat agent options for identity verification, with a link for users outside the U.S.
  5. Select Get started.
  6. On the personal information screen, under “Current Address”, select a non-U.S. country, then enter your non-U.S. address.
    Screenshot of form to enter current address outside the U.S., including fields for country, street, city, and postal code

2. Confirm you don’t have an SSN or ITIN

  1. Check the box to confirm you have never been issued a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification number (ITIN).
    Screenshot of SSN confirmation form with checkbox selected for users who have never been issued a U.S. Social Security number or ITIN
  2. Enter your passport number and passport’s expiration date, and then select Continue.
    Screenshot of form to enter passport details including country, passport number, and expiration date for identity verification

3. Upload your non-U.S. passport and international address document

Gather your documents in advance so they’re ready to upload when prompted.

  1. Foreign (Non-U.S.) Passport
    Confirm that the name you entered previously matches the name on your non-U.S. passport, then follow the prompts to upload.
    Screenshot asking user to confirm that the name entered matches the name on their foreign passport
  2. Select an approved “address document” that shows your same international address that you previously entered.
    Commonly-used, eligible documents include bank statements, electric bills, valid and unexpired driver’s licenses, pay stubs, etc.
    Screenshot of form asking user to select one address document, with options like utility bills, driver’s license, or pay stub
  3. Confirm your information
    After selecting your documents, carefully review the questions to confirm that the information you entered matches what’s shown on your documents.

4. Join video call for identity verification

Tip: ID.me supports video calls in over 240 languages. If you prefer to verify in a language other than English, inform the Video Chat Agent, who will bring in a third-party interpreter.
  1. Wait while your documents are reviewed.
    Screenshot showing estimated wait time for document review and a list of physical documents needed for the video call
  2. After your documents are approved, you’ll wait for the next available video call. An estimated wait time will display in the same window.
  3. If you don’t have time to wait or would like to come back another time, select Save & Exit or you can schedule a video call appointment.
  4. Select Join Video Call when you are ready.
Note: Be aware that fraudsters may send you a video call link as a way to steal your information. If you received a link to a video call from anyone other than ID.me, let your agent know immediately after you join the call.

During the call:

  1. Wait for the Video Chat Agent to join.
  2. Verify your personal information (name, date of birth, address, and ITIN, if required).
  3. Show your documents to the agent, ensuring they can see them clearly. Ask for guidance if needed. You must have the original versions of your identity documents—copies or photos are not accepted.
    Illustration showing a man holding an ID next to his face for a selfie as part of identity verification

5. Share your information

After meeting with an agent:

  1. Return to the organization’s website and sign in using your ID.me account.
  2. Select Allow to consent to share your information and access the organization or agency’s services.

Fix international verification issues

I selected Self-Service or Video Call

If you selected one of those options, select one of the following international links:

  • I don’t have a US Phone Number: When prompted to enter your phone number.
  • I don’t have a US address (if applicable): When asked for your home address.
  • I don’t have a Social Security number: To use your ITIN

I verified using a non-U.S. passport but cannot access my benefits 

If you successfully verified with a non-U.S. passport but cannot access your benefits, contact the organization or agency directly. Some may require a Social Security number for identity verification.

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