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shaneog38(Newbie)Newbie
17 Nov 2025

i am getting this error when applying for my TFN online but I arrived in Australia yesterday the 16th of November:


“Initial checks indicate you may not currently be in Australia”

55 views
1 replies
55 views
1 replies

All replies

JayATO(Community Support)Community Support
18 Nov 2025

Hi @shaneog38


It sounds like you meet the conditions to apply for a TFN online using Individual Auto Registration (IAR). You need to enter your details exactly as they appear on your passport or travel documents.


If you're still getting this error message, you may need to speak with the Department of Home Affairs about your visa status. There's also a known issue where this error can occur if your device's time zone isn't set to an Australian time zone - try setting your device to an Australian time zone and resubmit the application.


If the online application continues to fail, you can use the paper TFN application form for people living outside Australia, even though you're currently in Australia. You can find more information about TFN applications for permanent migrants and temporary visitors and troubleshooting online services on our website.

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