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_Alexander87(Newbie)Newbie
26 Mar 2021

Hi

I moved overseas but need access to my ATO account, however I cannot login into my myGov account since I have no access to my linked Australian mobile number.

I am also unable to use myGovID, since I am not Australian and therefore cannot verify my identiy with the required documents.

I also cannot use the myGov Code Generator app since I would also need an SMS code to register my device with myGov.

Is there another way to access my ATO account?

20,158 views
14 replies
20,158 views
14 replies

Most helpful response

Most helpful reply

EthanATO(Community Support)Community Support
27 Mar 2021

Hi @Alexander87,


Looks like you'll need to create a new myGov account and link with us again.


We've put together all the info you need in this article: How to access myGov and ATO Online while overseas.


When you set up the account you should be able to use the code generator app or the security questions to log in.


If you want to use your previous email address you'll need to contact the myGov helpdesk to have the email address released.


Hope this helps, let us know if you have any further questions.

All replies

Most helpful reply

EthanATO(Community Support)Community Support
27 Mar 2021

Hi @Alexander87,


Looks like you'll need to create a new myGov account and link with us again.


We've put together all the info you need in this article: How to access myGov and ATO Online while overseas.


When you set up the account you should be able to use the code generator app or the security questions to log in.


If you want to use your previous email address you'll need to contact the myGov helpdesk to have the email address released.


Hope this helps, let us know if you have any further questions.

_LinnB(Newbie)Newbie
14 Sept 2021

Hi,

If you're not an Australian resident or citizen the gov ID generator number doesn't work as we can't verify our identy and therefore not receive a code.

The two options to link ATO with the myGOV account - Australian phone number and govID generator aren't possible if you're overseas and not an Australian citizen/resident/permresident.

What do you do now?

Many thanks,

Liked by Brettlam
BlakeATO(Community Support)Community Support
15 Sept 2021

Hi @LinnB

You can still download the myGov code generator app from overseas.

In order to do this, you'll need to change your store's location to Australia.


Once you've done this, you can change your location back.


Once you've done this, you can set up the myGov code generator app.

_LinnB(Newbie)Newbie
15 Sept 2021

Hi Blake,

GOT the app but the app freezes on the last step of registration where you tick the box for terms and conditions and then register. I've called mygov 3x times about this. I've tried the registration on iPhone XS and iPhone SE. The mygov phone team said this was a known problem. What's the eta to fix?

Linn

_Dan_ATO(Community Support)Community Support
21 Sept 2021

Hi @LinnB,

Unfortunately, we can't answer for an ETA on a fix for this to be deployed.


The app and myGov itself are handled by Services Australia, so you would need to investigate directly with them to find out about when/if it's being looked into.



You've mentioned you've tried the myGov code generator app and myGovID.


Have you tried with your mobile? You should be able to connect an overseas phone number to your myGov account to use to log in instead.


I've checked the help page on the myGov website, and nothing says it must be an Australian number.


You can change this in your account settings if you've already connected a phone number.

BlakeATO(Community Support)Community Support
23 Sept 2021

Hi @LinnB

We've talked with Services Australia, who have advised they've deployed a fix for the issue last night.


You should be able to register for the myGov code generator app now.

JeremyATO(Community Support)Community Support
23 Sept 2021

Hi @LinnB

Services Australia have just let us know that this issue should be fixed.


If you give it a try now and you're still having issues, then it's probably best to get in touch with them directly.

laura.lovisi(Enthusiast)Enthusiast
20 Sept 2023

@JeremyATO

Hey !


I was talking with @CatherineATO on another topic but I can't submit an answer anymore...


May you forward me a phone number of the ATO or MyGov that I can call via Whatsapp ? (I am overseas and can't use phone data)


I tried but unfortunately both phone numbers below to join the ATO or My Gov can't be called on Whatsapp : +61 2 [Removed by moderator] and [Removed by moderator] .


Thank you,


Laura

scott_47(I'm new)I'm new
1 Dec 2023

I am working overseas for a few years on a contract and I have tried everything to access/create a new account. Without an Australian mobile number I dont think it is possible. I continue to get emails from my gov saying check your inbox. I have given up trying to access which is a shame because I would like to get my tax sorted at home.

Millie174(Newbie)Newbie
29 May 2024

Hi Alexander,

Did you have any luck as I am having the exact same problem.

I set up a NEW MyGov account which was fine and I was able to give my UK mobile number for this.


However in order to link ATO to the new account, I STILL needed an Aus mobile.

I downloaded the code generator but you needed an Aus mobile for this!!


I then downloaded the MyGov Digital Identity app but this would not work because I do not have any form of current ID they need (my Aus driving licence is out of date now and my UK passport is not linked to a CURRENT visa).


Thanks in advance for any advice,


Sue

AnitaATO(Community Support)Community Support
5 June 2024

Hi @Millie174,


That's strange!!


You don't need an Australian mobile number to be able to use the code generator app.


You've registered your UK phone number with the app?


Is it giving you an error or anything when you try and use it?


If you continue to have issues you may need to speak with the myGov helpdesk.

ideasman42(Enthusiast)Enthusiast
18 Aug 2024

Previously it wasn't possible to login to my.gov and access the ATO service without a mobile phone (I was using someone elses which wasn't great).


A "pass-key" can now be used to login without requiring an SMS verification code (USB security keys work well, recommend "NitroKey 3" but there are many options available).


So now it's finally possible to file tax returns without having to own a mobile phone.

As someone who doesn't have a mobile phone this is much appreciated, but it works well if your out of the country too.


ideasman42(Enthusiast)Enthusiast
18 Aug 2024

Previously it wasn't possible to login to my.gov and access the ATO service without a mobile phone (I was using someone elses which wasn't great).


A "pass-key" can now be used to login without requiring an SMS verification code (USB security keys work well, recommend "NitroKey 3" but there are many options available).


So now it's finally possible to file tax returns without having to own a mobile phone.

As someone who doesn't have a mobile phone this is much appreciated, but it works well if your out of the country too.


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Accessing myGov from overseas without mobile phone number | ATO Community