Tax for Travellers

Coming to Australia to work or study, or getting ready to leave? We help visitors, working holiday makers and new residents with every part of their Australian tax – from the first tax file number to the super refund after you have gone home.

Your tax file number

A tax file number (TFN) is used in all your tax affairs – starting a job, opening a bank account, joining a super fund and lodging a tax return. You do not have to give your TFN to an employer or bank, but if you don't, more tax is taken from what they pay you.

Visitors and new migrants apply for a TFN themselves, free, once they are in Australia – the ATO's online application cannot be used from overseas, and you need a visa with work rights. Apply on the ATO's TFN application for permanent migrants and temporary visitors page, and check your visa's work conditions first with the Department of Home Affairs' VEVO visa check.

Working holiday makers

If you are here on a working holiday visa (subclass 417 or 462), you are taxed at special rates, and what you pay depends on whether your employer is registered to employ working holiday makers. Backpacker tax explained goes through the rates and what to check with your employer.

Tax residency

Whether you are a resident for tax purposes decides the rates you pay and whether your overseas income is taxed here. It is a different test from your visa or immigration status, and it is the question we are asked most. Tell us your plans and we will work it out with you before your first return.

Your tax return

The Australian income year runs from 1 July to 30 June. We prepare and lodge your return and check the deductions you can claim for your work. Returns start from $220 including GST – see individual tax returns and our tips for a bigger refund.

Medicare levy exemption

Some temporary visa holders are not entitled to Medicare and can claim an exemption from the Medicare levy in their return, with a certificate from Services Australia. We apply for the certificate for you ($77).

Your final tax return

If you are leaving for good, you can lodge your final return before the end of the income year, so your tax is settled and any refund is paid before you go.

Closing your ABN and other ATO matters

If you worked as a contractor or sole trader, the ABN, any GST registration and outstanding lodgements need to be finalised. We close them off so nothing comes back to you later.

Claiming your super back (DASP)

Your employers paid superannuation into a fund for you. Once you have left Australia and your visa has ended, you can usually claim it as a departing Australia superannuation payment (DASP). Tax is withheld from the payment, and the paperwork can be slow if you start from overseas. We prepare and lodge the application for you – see how to get your super back.

What it costs

The full list is on our price list.

Questions travellers ask