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marshah28(I'm new)I'm new
4 Oct 2023

Hi there, I'm currently on a student visa and about to complete a Master's program. I have a job lined up for next year but I'll be employed as a subcontractor. I'm planning to apply for either the Graduate Working Stream or Post-Study Working Visa under the 485 visa. I've researched and found that I can sign up for an ABN and have full working rights as a sole trader/subcontractor under those visas but I have to following questions:

  • When would be the best time for me to apply for an ABN? While I'm still on my student visa, or once I've received the temporary working visa/bridging visa?
  • If I apply for an ABN while I'm still on a student visa, am I still able to use the same one when I receive the temporary working visa/bridging visa?
  • What tax rate will I be under when I get the temporary working visa/bridging visa? Foreign resident, or Australian resident for tax purposes? (Trying to figure out what my take-home pay will be here!)

Edit to add: I have been in Australia since March 2022, and have only left to visit my home country for 1 month in December 2022. I've stayed here ever since.


Thank you in advance for your help and feel free to link any articles that could point me in the right direction!

6,205 views
1 replies
6,205 views
1 replies

Most helpful response

Most helpful reply

DanielleATO(Community Support)Community Support
5 Oct 2023

Hi @marshah28,


If you are planning on starting a business, you can apply for an ABN as soon as you are entitled. You will need to check with the department of immigration for any restrictions on your current student visa for starting a business.


If you apply as a sole trader, the ABN will remain the same and not change. You will need to keep it up to date with any changes to your business.


The tax rates and thresholds are based on your tax residency and income. You will need to determine your residency for tax purposes. 

All replies

Most helpful reply

DanielleATO(Community Support)Community Support
5 Oct 2023

Hi @marshah28,


If you are planning on starting a business, you can apply for an ABN as soon as you are entitled. You will need to check with the department of immigration for any restrictions on your current student visa for starting a business.


If you apply as a sole trader, the ABN will remain the same and not change. You will need to keep it up to date with any changes to your business.


The tax rates and thresholds are based on your tax residency and income. You will need to determine your residency for tax purposes. 

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Applying for an ABN on a student visa or 485 visa, and correct tax rate on 485 visa | ATO Community