Yes, if you have already been granted your working holiday visa, you can apply for a Tax File Number before you arrive in Australia. The ATO allows foreign passport holders to submit a TFN application online as long as they have a valid visa that permits work in Australia.
Why applying early is worth it
Applying before you arrive gives your TFN time to be processed while you are still travelling or preparing for your trip. By the time you start your first job, your TFN may already be waiting for you, which means you can give it to your employer immediately and avoid any period of higher tax withholding.
The application takes around 10 minutes and processing typically takes up to 28 days. If you apply a month before you arrive, there is a good chance your TFN will arrive around the same time you do.
What you need to apply from overseas
You need a valid Australian working holiday visa that has already been granted, not just applied for. You also need your passport number, your visa details, and a valid Australian address where the ATO can send your TFN by post.
The address requirement is the main complication for people applying from overseas. The ATO sends your TFN as a physical letter to an Australian address. If you have already booked accommodation for your first weeks in Australia, you can use that address. A hostel address works fine as long as you can receive mail there.
If you do not yet have a confirmed Australian address, it may be easier to wait until you arrive and have somewhere to stay before submitting your application.
What happens if your visa changes or is cancelled
If your visa situation changes between when you apply for your TFN and when you arrive in Australia, contact the ATO to update your details. Your TFN itself is permanent and does not expire even if your visa does, but the information on file with the ATO should reflect your current situation.
After you arrive
Once you are in Australia and have started work, provide your TFN to each employer you work for along with a completed Tax File Number Declaration form. This is what triggers the correct working holiday maker tax rate on your wages. Your TFN is also what you will need later to lodge your tax return and access your superannuation.
Need help?
Let us handle your TFN application
Whether you are already in Australia or still planning your trip, we can take care of your TFN application so it is one less thing to think about when you arrive.
Start your TFN application →Keep reading →
What happens if your employer does not have your TFN?
If your employer does not hold your TFN, they must withhold tax at 47%. Here is exactly what that means for your pay and how to fix it.