Living Abroad

How to Get a Tax File Number (TFN) in Australia as a Migrant

4 min read

In this guide
  1. Who can apply online?
  2. What do you need before you start?
  3. How to apply, step by step
  4. How much does it cost, and how long does it take?
  5. Common mistakes to avoid
  6. FAQ
    1. Is a TFN free?
    2. Can I apply before I arrive in Australia?
    3. How long until I get my TFN?
    4. What if my letter never arrives?
    5. Where can I read about the rules for using a TFN?
  7. Key takeaways
  8. Related guides
  9. Sources

Quick answer: You can apply for an Australian Tax File Number (TFN) online through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) if you are a foreign passport holder, permanent migrant or temporary visitor already in Australia. It is free and takes about 20 minutes. Your TFN notification letter is posted to your Australian postal address and can take up to 28 days to arrive.

A TFN is a tax number issued by the ATO, and applying is one of the early admin tasks after you arrive. The process is simple, but a few small mistakes, such as a name that does not match your passport, can cause delays. This guide follows the ATO’s published instructions for the online application so you can complete it correctly the first time. For the wider order of tasks, see our first 90 days in a new country guide.

Who can apply online?

The online system is for foreign passport holders, permanent migrants and temporary visitors. The ATO says you must already be in Australia to apply, and your postal address must be in Australia. If you are still overseas, you cannot use this online form, so plan to apply soon after you arrive and have a place to receive mail.

What do you need before you start?

  • Your passport or travel document number and the country that issued it. This must match the nationality country on your visa.
  • Your names and date of birth, exactly as printed on your passport or travel document.
  • Any other names you use or are known by.
  • Spouse details.
  • Any existing TFN, ABN or Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN).
  • Your residential and postal addresses. The postal address must be in Australia, and the home address cannot be a post office box.
  • A phone number and email address.

Keep your passport and visa papers handy. Our checklist of documents to gather before moving abroad covers what to keep together.

How to apply, step by step

  1. Set your device to an Australian time zone. The ATO warns that submission errors may occur if you do not.
  2. Open the ATO’s online TFN form for permanent migrants and temporary visitors, typing the ATO address yourself rather than using a link from a stranger.
  3. Enter your details exactly as they appear in your passport or travel document.
  4. Format your address correctly. For a unit, put the unit number before the slash (/) and the building number after it.
  5. Submit and write down your ATO receipt ID. You will need it if the letter does not arrive.

How much does it cost, and how long does it take?

There is no cost to apply. The application takes about 20 minutes, but delivery is slower: your TFN notification letter is sent to your Australian postal address and can take up to 28 days. Do not lodge a second application while you wait, because that can cause delays. If you have not received the letter after 28 days, contact the ATO and quote your receipt ID.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Entering a name that differs from your passport. Use the exact spelling.
  • Using a post office box as your home address. This is not accepted.
  • Applying twice. This can cause delays.
  • Using an overseas postal address. The postal address must be in Australia.
  • Paying a third party. The ATO says it is free to apply. Be wary of paid “agents”; see our guide on visa and job offer scams.

FAQ

Is a TFN free?

Yes. The ATO states that there is no cost to apply.

Can I apply before I arrive in Australia?

Not through this online system. The ATO says you must already be in Australia to apply.

How long until I get my TFN?

The letter can take up to 28 days to arrive at your Australian postal address.

What if my letter never arrives?

Contact the ATO after 28 days with your receipt ID. Do not submit another application.

Where can I read about the rules for using a TFN?

The ATO’s “What is a tax file number?” page explains why you need a TFN and how to keep it and your personal details safe. This guide covers the application only.

Key takeaways

  • Apply online after you arrive; it is free and takes about 20 minutes.
  • Enter details exactly as in your passport, with an Australian postal address.
  • Expect the letter in up to 28 days and do not reapply.
  • Keep your receipt ID.

This article is general information, not tax advice. Check the ATO website for current rules and for details of your own circumstances. Last updated: October 2026.

Sources

  • Australian Taxation Office: Online TFN registration for permanent migrants and temporary visitors
  • Australian Taxation Office: TFN application for permanent migrants and temporary visitors
  • Australian Taxation Office: Tax file number (overview)

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