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Australian Tax File Number (TFN)

Required by employers, a Tax File Number (TFN) is vital for any temporary visitor to Australia looking to gain employment while they're there (such as a working holiday maker).

What is a Tax File Number?

A Tax File Number (TFN) is a unique number issued to individuals and organisations to help us administer tax and other Australian Government systems.

It is not compulsory to have a TFN. However, if you do not have one you may have more tax withheld than you need to or be unable to receive government benefits you are entitled to.

Please note: The TFN is ONLY for temporary visitors to Australia who have a visa that allows them to work while they are there. Only one TFN will be issued to you during your lifetime, even if you change your circumstances such as your name or residency. You should keep your TFN secure at all times and advise the government if you change your name or address so they can update your details.

Getting a Tax File Number

By visiting the Australian government's registration page at https://iar.ato.gov.au/iarweb/default.aspx, you can apply for one online.  The application process is relatively simple, but could take up to 20 minutes.

Applying for an Australian TFN should take about 20 minutes. You will be asked to enter details including your passport or travel document number, a postal address in Australia where your TFN can be sent, your legal name and other names you use or have used and contact details for yourself or your preferred contact person.

More Tax File Number information

If you already have a TFN but do not know what it is, go through the above application process and indicate when asked that you already have a TFN. A notice with your TFN will be forwarded to you.

If you know your TFN but wish to advise the Tax Office of changes to your details, go through this application process and enter your updated details.