A tax file number is personal and does not expire simply because a visa or job changes. New arrivals should use the application route that matches their current status and location.

Start by separating the records

Arrival administration is rarely one transaction. A Australia record may be needed again by a bank, employer, landlord, insurer or public authority, so the first version should be accurate and easy to retrieve.

In practice, the question is seldom whether a document exists. The important points are whose record it is, which step it supports and when it was valid. The public guidance from Australian Taxation Office is a sensible starting point, but account messages and case-specific requests still need a separate review.

Checks before action

One case owner should complete these four checks and record how any difference was resolved.

  • Check whether the online application for foreign passport holders is available.
  • Enter passport and address details exactly as held in official records.
  • Use a secure mailing address for the TFN notice.
  • Give the TFN to an employer or bank only through an appropriate channel.

Where the file often breaks

Applying again because a letter is delayed can create identity confusion. Check the application and mailing status before starting a second request.

Leave a file another reviewer can follow

Keep the application reference and notice securely. Routine working files should show that a TFN was provided, not display the number itself.

Ask someone who did not handle the matter to sample the file. If that person can reconstruct what happened from the working paper, the record is ready for handover.

Publication date: 2026-09-10; editorial review date: 2026-09-14. The publication date completes the website category timeline; sources were checked on the editorial review date. This article is based on public information from Australian Taxation Office and provides general information, not legal, tax, immigration, education or financial advice. Recheck the official page and account notices before acting on a particular case. Source: Australian Taxation Office.