You can apply for an ITIN now for her. Non Resident Aliens can apply for an ITIN, so there is no requirement that one be in the US for any length of time to apply using the W7. The ITIN you receive is not the same as a Social Security Number.
No, whether or not you include your spouse on your return, since she does not currently have a Taxpayer Identification Number, you cannot e-file your return. It will have to be printed and mailed. Either with the W7 application or with a statement that your wife is a Nor-Resident Alien or that she is here on a visa and you have applied for a SSN.
If you are talking about an actual dependent and not your spouse, yes, you can file without them now and then amend your return later to claim them as a dependent. Any dependents you claim will need either a social security number or ITIN. You can also later Amend Your Return to change your filing status.
You do also have the option of filing an extension since she will be receiving a SSN. If she gets her SSN before the extension deadline you can then e-file. However, many things with the government are backed up, so if you try this route, be sure that you do not miss the extension filing deadline if her SSN does not come on time.
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