Bangladesh has a thriving app development community. Bangladeshi developers on Google Play Store who earn from US users face a 30% tax withholding by Google unless they provide a Tax Identification Number. An ITIN lets you complete Google's tax form and eliminate withholding on your app earnings.
How Google Play Withholds from Bangladeshi Developers
Google LLC (the operator of Google Play) is a US company required to collect tax information from developers who earn US-source income. For Bangladeshi developers receiving payments from US app purchases, Google may withhold 30% unless you submit a valid W-8BEN with your Tax ID.
This withholding applies to in-app purchase revenue, subscription revenue, and paid app downloads from US users. Google Play Console has a dedicated tax information section where you submit your ITIN and W-8BEN.
Bangladesh App Market: The Opportunity
Bangladeshi developers build apps in education (e-learning, Quran apps), productivity tools, games, and local service apps. Many of these reach US users — especially the diaspora community and global users. A Bangladeshi productivity app with 50,000 US downloads at $0.99 generates nearly $50,000 — and 30% withholding would cost $15,000 unnecessarily.
Completing Google Play Tax Information
In Google Play Console:
- Go to Setup → Payments profile
- Click 'Manage tax information'
- Select W-8BEN (for non-US individuals)
- Enter your ITIN as the Tax Identification Number
- Sign and submit
Google verifies your information and adjusts withholding on future payments. This takes effect within a few days of submission.
ITIN for App Developer — How ITIN Plus Helps
ITIN Plus serves Bangladeshi app developers across Android, iOS, and cross-platform frameworks. We handle your ITIN application completely — document review, Form W-7, direct IRS submission. $99 flat fee, 8–14 week processing. Email apply@itinplus.com or call +1 (305) 216-6992.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Google Play withhold taxes from Bangladeshi developers?
Yes. Google Play withholds up to 30% of earnings from US users if Bangladeshi developers don't provide an ITIN via W-8BEN. Providing your ITIN eliminates this withholding.
How do I add my ITIN to Google Play Console?
Go to Google Play Console → Setup → Payments profile → Manage tax information. Select W-8BEN, enter your ITIN, and submit. Google updates your withholding status within a few days.
Can I publish apps on Google Play from Bangladesh?
Yes. Bangladeshi developers can create Google Play developer accounts and publish apps globally. The main tax requirement is providing an ITIN via W-8BEN for earnings from US users.
How long does it take to get an ITIN?
8–14 weeks from the IRS submission date. ITIN Plus submits your application promptly after verifying your documents.
What documents do I need for an ITIN application?
Valid passport, a secondary government-issued ID (NID card or birth certificate), and proof of residential address in Bangladesh (utility bill or bank statement dated within 3 months).