Hi,

I was in Buffalo, NY this year for 2 months (April & May). Was accompanied by my wife. She holds L2 (dependent) visa & did not work in US.

I have my W-2 with me now. As I understand, I need to apply ITIN for my wife while filing the returns. I have few doubts as below -

1. Along with the W-7 am planning to submit tax return form, wife’s & mine notarize passport photo copy, is it fine or am I missing anything?
2. Does IRS accept documents attested by an India notary? If not, what is the alternative?
3. What form I should fill-up for the returns?
4. Can I use ‘Married filing jointly ‘ status for the returns?
5. Hope it is fine to send all those docs by registered post.

Regards,
Sumeet

1. Yes
2. Get notarized in India. Then you need a certification in the form of an "apostille," which will be attached to the copy of the document. Take notarized copy and passport to Ministry of External affairs.
3. Form 1040.
4. Yes.
5. Attach W-7 and documents with your tax return and mail to IRS.

1. Yes
2. Get notarized in India. Then you need a certification in the form of an "apostille," which will be attached to the copy of the document. Take notarized copy and passport to Ministry of External affairs.
3. Form 1040.
4. Yes.
5. Attach W-7 and documents with your tax return and mail to IRS.

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Thanks for the reply Mukata.
I have further doubts on the attestation process.
1. 'apostille' format is valid for a bunch of countries. When I Google more on this, India is not present in the listed countries. Could you please confirm if apostille is applicable for India?
2. What process do I need to carry at Ministry of External affairs office? Am located in Pune, MH. Are you aware of any link/site where I can find the nearest office to visit?

1) Yes, the apostille IS required for India.

2) There in lies the problem. Indian citizens who live in the large cities with government office can get the apostille in a relatively short period. Those who live in small towns and villages must submit the request via the mail (or travel to a big city), and their processing time takes a LOT longer, often months.