How to Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) in Australia?
Applying for an Australian TFN is straightforward when you use the correct process for your visa and location. Eligible international students and temporary visa holders can generally apply online through the ATO's IAR system, free of charge. Prepare your passport and visa details, enter an accurate Australian postal address, and allow up to 28 days for delivery.
Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
4 min read
In this article
If you are moving to Australia for study or work, applying for a Tax File Number (TFN) is an important step. A TFN is a personal reference number used by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to identify you for tax and superannuation purposes.
The good news: applying for a TFN is free. If you are an international student or temporary visa holder, you can generally apply online through the Australian Taxation Office's official application process, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.
1. What is a TFN, and why do you need one?
A Tax File Number is a unique number that helps the ATO keep track of your tax records. You may need one if you:
Start a part-time or full-time job in Australia.
Receive taxable income.
Need to manage your tax and superannuation records.
Are eligible for certain government services or education-related financial arrangements.
You can usually start work while your TFN application is being processed, but give your employer your TFN once you receive it. Without one, you may have more tax withheld from your pay.
2. Who can apply for a TFN?
Your application method depends on your residency and visa status.
International students: Generally apply as temporary visa holders if they are in Australia and eligible.
Temporary workers and working holiday visa holders: Can generally apply through the ATO's process for temporary visitors.
Permanent migrants: May be eligible to use the online application process for migrants.
Australian citizens and residents for tax purposes: Have different application options, including myID or Australia Post, depending on their identity documents.
If you are applying as an international student, follow the instructions for temporary visitors rather than assuming the Australian-citizen process applies to you.
3. Documents and details you need
Before you begin, prepare:
A valid passport or other eligible travel document.
Your Australian visa details.
Your full name and date of birth exactly as shown on your passport.
Your current Australian residential or postal address.
An Australian contact number, if requested.
The online process checks your travel-document information against Department of Home Affairs records. For eligible foreign passport holders and temporary visitors, you generally do not need to upload identity documents when applying through the ATO's Individual Auto Registration (IAR) system.
4. Step-by-step: How to apply for a TFN online
Open the official ATO website. Visit the and find the TFN application page for foreign passport holders, permanent migrants and temporary visitors.
Choose the correct application. If you are an eligible temporary visa holder, select the online IAR application rather than the process intended for Australian residents applying through Australia Post.
Enter your passport details. Provide your passport number, issuing country, name and date of birth exactly as they appear on your travel document.
Complete the personal details. Answer the questions about your visa and contact information, and provide a valid Australian postal address.
Review and submit. Check all details carefully before submitting the application. Save your ATO receipt or reference number.
Wait for your TFN. The ATO says it will post your TFN to the Australian postal address supplied in the application, usually within 28 days.
5. How long does it take to receive a TFN?
For eligible temporary visitors applying online, allow up to 28 days for the ATO to process the application and post your TFN. Make sure your address is correct and that you can receive mail there.
If your TFN has not arrived after 28 days, contact the ATO on 13 28 61 and have your application reference or receipt details ready.
Avoid submitting a second application while your first one is being processed, as duplicate applications can cause delays.
6. What if you are still outside Australia?
If you are applying from overseas, do not assume the standard online process for temporary visitors will work. The ATO provides a separate application form for individuals living outside Australia, and eligibility depends on your circumstances.
7. Common TFN application problems
Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
The system says you are not in Australia | If you have recently arrived, wait a few days for immigration records to update, then try again. |
Your passport details are rejected | Check the passport number, issuing country, name and date of birth carefully. |
You used the wrong application type | Check the ATO's instructions before taking further action. If you already submitted an application, contact the ATO rather than submitting another one. |
Your TFN has not arrived | Check your postal address and contact the ATO after the 28-day processing period. |
The ATO has specifically noted that visa-status information can take a little time to update after arrival in Australia.
8. Important tips to keep your TFN safe
Applying for a TFN is free. Be cautious of websites or agents charging simply to obtain one.
Keep your TFN private and only share it when there is a legitimate tax-related reason.
Never post your TFN publicly or send it to an unverified person.
Apply only once, because your TFN is generally issued to you for life.
If you start working before receiving your TFN, tell your employer that you have applied and follow the employer's instructions for the relevant tax declaration.
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