How do i solve this tfn issue?

 Author: JayATO(Community Support)Community Support

18 Mar 2026

Hi @Mooresybs,

It sounds like your visa information hasn't been updated in the system yet, even though you've arrived in Australia. When you enter Australia on a working holiday visa (subclass 417 or 462), the Department of Home Affairs sends us notification that you're in the country, but there can be a delay between your arrival and when our systems are updated with this information.

Since you've only been here for 2 days, the system update may not have occurred yet. You have a couple of options to move forward:

• wait a few more days and try your online TFN application again, as the visa information update can take some time to process
• use the paper TFN application form for people living outside Australia if the online system continues to indicate you're not in Australia, even though this seems less ideal for your situation.

You can apply for a TFN online once you have your work visa, and it's free to apply. Your TFN is your personal reference number in our tax system, and without one you'll pay more tax. The application normally takes up to 28 days to process, and your TFN will be sent to your postal address.

If the issue persists after waiting a few days, contact us on the individual enquiries line so we can help resolve the visa status issue and get your TFN application processed. Make sure you have your visa details and passport information ready when you call.

Reply0 likes

• Report as inappropriate