TaxGov Services » Australia

Moving to Australia?
We’ll help you get everything ready

  • Licensed Immigration Advisers (Registered Consultants)
  • Verified administrative support – TaxGov Services®

How to get started

Getting your paperwork in order before arriving in Australia makes everything much easier, from starting your job to opening a bank account. Here’s what to focus on first:

1

Check your visa options

Make sure you apply for the right visa based on your purpose, whether you’re visiting, studying or working

2

Apply for your TFN or ABN

Your tax numbers are essential for working or running a business in Australia. We’ll help you understand which one you need

3

Prepare your key documents

Gather the certificates and identification documents required for your application and arrival, so nothing slows you down

Find the right visa for your stay

Whether you’re travelling, studying or planning to work in Australia, having the right visa is essential.
We help you understand which visa fits your situation and what documents you’ll need to apply

Visitor Visa

For short trips, tourism, or visiting friends and family. Easy to apply for, but check the stay duration allowed for your nationality

Student Visa

For studying full-time at an Australian institution. You’ll need proof of enrolment and health insurance before applying

Working Holiday Visa

For young travellers who want to work while exploring Australia. Limited age range and country eligibility applies

Skilled Work Visa

For professionals with specific qualifications or job offers. Often requires a skills assessment and sponsorship

Partner or Family Visa

For joining your partner or family members already living in Australia. Documentation and proof of relationship are key

Temporary Graduate Visa

For recent international graduates who want to live, study and work in Australia after finishing their studies

Your TFN: essential for working in Australia

A Tax File Number (TFN) is your personal tax identification number in Australia. You’ll need it to start any job, pay taxes, or open a bank account.

Without a TFN, you may be taxed at a higher rate, so it’s important to apply as soon as you’re eligible.

  • Eligibility requirements (who can apply)
  • Documents needed for your application
  • Step-by-step online application guide

Do you need an ABN?

An Australian Business Number (ABN) is required if you plan to work as a freelancer, contractor or run your own business in Australia.

It’s a unique 11-digit identifier used for tax and business purposes, helping you invoice clients, register for GST and manage payments correctly.

We’ll help you determine whether you need an ABN, guide you through the application process, and make sure your business is set up properly before you start working.

Official certificates you may need in Australia

Some Australian authorities may ask for certified documents such as your birth, marriage or death certificates, especially when applying for visas, registering relationships, or managing family matters

Birth Certificate

Proof of identity or family connection

Marriage Certificate

Relationship or partner visa applications

Death Certificate

Legal or family record requirements

We guide you through how to request, replace or verify your BDM certificates through the correct state registry. If your documents were issued outside Australia, we’ll help you understand when translations or apostilles may be required.

  • Avoid last-minute paperwork issues
  • Know exactly what you’ll need on arrival
  • Save time and avoid unnecessary stress

Common questions about moving to Australia

Here are some of the most frequent questions people ask when preparing to move to Australia.
If you’re unsure about anything, our team is always here to help

Not always. Most employees only need a TFN, but if you work as a freelancer or run your own business, you may also need an ABN. We can help you understand which one applies to your situation.

You can only apply once you’re legally in Australia and have a valid visa that allows you to work. However, you can prepare your documents in advance to speed up the process.

Depending on your visa type, you may need identification documents, health insurance, and sometimes certified certificates (such as birth or marriage). We’ll help you create a checklist tailored to your case.

Processing times vary by visa type. Visitor visas are often faster, while skilled or family visas may take longer. We’ll guide you on what to expect for your application.

Yes, if your documents are in another language, certified English translations are usually required. We’ll explain how to prepare and validate them correctly.

You can still apply after you arrive, but you may be taxed at a higher rate until you provide it. It’s best to get it sorted as soon as possible.

Disclaimer: TaxGov Services is an independent administrative provider offering guidance through licensed immigration advisers and registered immigration consultants. We assist clients in managing applications for official documents from the relevant government authorities. TaxGov Services is a registered trademark.