Hello,

I am about to emigrate to Australia soon. I was wondering how to apply for the Tax File Number (TFN). I found a website where you can but it says
"... And you must be in Australia to use this online applicataion process..."

Does it mean that you CAN NOT apply in advance for the TFN whilst you are abroad and that you have to be physically in Australia to do it ?

Anyone knows ?

Thank you,

jf

Hi jf,

Yes - Need to be in Australia. When we arrived we went along to our local ATO (Australian Tax Office) with passports and ID. They confirm your identity, check your visa & after completing a form you're then sent via the post your tax file number. Without this you pay the highest rate of tax until such time you provide your employer with this number. Hope this helps. Sue