How to Update Your Foreign Status

Keeping your foreign status up to date on your Fidelity accounts is important. You can recertify online for all W-8 forms.

Why do I need to recertify my foreign status?

You may have received a letter from Fidelity reminding you to recertify your foreign status. We send those letters because, if you're a nonresident alien or a foreign entity, the IRS requires you to recertify your foreign status every 3 years by completing a Form W-8.

What do I need to know?

You'll need to know which Form W-8 to use based on your foreign status, with the most common form the W-8BEN for individuals. Other options include W-8BEN-E, W-8IMY, W-8ECI, and W-8EXP. If you typically use one of these W-8 forms to certify your foreign status, you can recertify your status by using our online tool.

What to expect

  • Completing the Form W-8 online will take about 10 minutes.
  • You'll be asked to enter ownership information and answer a series of questions.
  • You can review and edit your entries at the end of the online certification process.
  • After completing your Form W-8, you can sign the form using eSign and submit online. Or you can print, sign, and mail the form to us. You can also send the form to us via email.

If you've chosen eDelivery, you'll receive a confirmation in 1 to 2 business days. If you don't use eDelivery, you'll receive a confirmation by US Mail within 3 to 5 business days.

Questions?

800-343-3548

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