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If you’re a doctor considering a move to Australia or exploring training pathways, you may have come across the term “MM2+” . But what exactly does it mean, and why is it important for GPs? Understanding the Modified Monash Model (MMM) The Modified Monash Model (MMM) is a classification tool used to measure both the remoteness of an area and its population size . It is designed to guide the distribution of the healthcare workforce across Australia, ensuring that rural and remote communities have better access to medical care. MMM uses a scale from MM 1 (major city) to MM 7 (very remote) : MM 1 – Major cities (e.g., Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) MM 2–7 – Rural and remote communities, with MM 7 being very remote These classifications are reviewed after each census, based on the Australian Statistical Geography Standard – Remoteness Areas (ASGS-RA) . You can check any location’s classification on the Health Workforce Locator . Why MM2+ Matters for GPs In the context of General Practice, MM2+ refers to areas classified as MM 2 or higher . These are rural or remote regions where access to healthcare is more limited, and where doctors are most needed. Living in an MM2+ area often means: Patients may wait longer or travel further for medical care Health services are in higher demand Government incentives and training opportunities are available for GPs MM2+ and Distribution Priority Area (DPA) The Distribution Priority Area (DPA) classification also relies on MMM boundaries. All areas classified MM 2–7 are automatically DPA . This is important because many GP training and Fellowship pathways require working in a DPA or MM2+ location. For example, the Northern Territory is automatically classified as DPA, regardless of MMM category. GP Training Pathways and MM2+ Requirements For overseas-trained doctors (OTDs) and GP registrars, MM2+ plays a key role in eligibility for various programs. Here’s how it applies to major training and registration pathways: AHPRA Expedited Pathway – Requires DPA (can be MM1) RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway (Substantially Comparable) – Requires DPA (can be MM1) RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway (Partially Comparable) – Requires MM2+ until Fellowship is gained, then only DPA RACGP Fellowship Support Program (FSP) – Requires MM2+ ACRRM Independent Pathway – Requires MM2+ , with at least 12 months in MM4+ ACRRM Specialist Pathway – Requires MM4+ Rural Generalist Training Scheme – Requires MM2+ , with 12 months in MM4+ Remote Vocational Training Scheme (RVTS) – Requires MM2+ Key Takeaway for GPs If you’re planning to work as a GP in Australia, especially as an overseas-trained doctor, understanding MM2+ classifications is essential. These areas not only offer excellent professional opportunities but also provide access to government support and incentives designed to attract doctors to rural and remote communities. To explore current GP roles in MM2+ locations or to learn more about your eligibility, reach out to Doctor Connect . Our team specialises in helping GPs find rewarding opportunities across Australia.

The term Distribution Priority Area (DPA) is a key classification system used by the Australian Government to manage the geographic distribution of the medical workforce. DPAs are particularly important for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) , as they determine access to Medicare Provider Numbers (MPN) and the Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) . What is a Distribution Priority Area (DPA)? A DPA is designated under section 19AB of the Health Insurance Act 1973 . It identifies areas with insufficient medical services to ensure populations receive adequate care. For IMGs working in Australia , the DPA system restricts access to Medicare until they have served in a DPA location for 10 years from the date of medical registration . The DPA classification is based on: GP-to-population ratios Population demographics (age and gender) Socioeconomic status of the local population A GP catchment area classified as a DPA indicates a shortage of general practitioners relative to community needs. How DPA Areas Are Determined The DPA system applies standard rules to streamline classification: Inner metropolitan areas are automatically considered non-DPA Modified Monash (MM) 2–7 areas are automatically DPA Northern Territory and Tasmania are automatically MM2+ and considered DPA Benchmarks for GP services are fixed for three years to stabilise local workforces. You can view a map of Distribution Priority Areas via the Health Workforce Locator . Methods to Shorten the 10-Year Moratorium While IMGs typically must work 10 years in a DPA to access Medicare, there are programs and exemptions that can reduce this period: DPA Shortening Programs: DPA Scaling 5-year Overseas Trained Doctor (OTD) Program Exemptions for Non-DPA Work: Replacement exemption 6-month locum exemption Spouse exemption Academic exemption These exemptions allow IMGs to work in non-DPA locations before completing the 10-year moratorium in certain circumstances. More Information About DPAs For detailed guidance on Distribution Priority Areas , visit the Department of Health website . Understanding your DPA obligations is essential for IMGs planning to work in Australia , particularly for those aiming to access the Medicare Benefits Scheme and build a sustainable career in general practice.

Doctors who completed their medical degrees outside Australia must comply with Medicare’s 19AB rules , requiring International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to work in a Distribution Priority Area (DPA) for the first 10 years of practice. By working in doctor-short locations, overseas GPs can complete a GP Fellowship, gain permanent residency, and remove work restrictions in as little as four years . This blog explains the pathways available to reduce your 10-year moratorium and fast-track your Australian medical career. Two Ways to Reduce Your Moratorium 1. Moratorium Scaling The Moratorium Scaling scheme , operated by Medicare through the Department of Health, calculates reductions automatically each month. IMGs earn scaling credits for working in rural and remote areas: the more remote the location, the greater the reduction. Locations are classified using the ASGS Remoteness Areas via the Health Workforce Locator Map . Example: Bunbury, WA (Inner Regional, RA2) reduces the moratorium to 9 years. Port Hedland, WA (Remote, RA4) reduces it to 6 years. Key points: Scaling applies monthly and requires a minimum of $5,000 Medicare billings per month in General Practice. Full-time hospital work alone does not earn credits; GPs must bill through private General Practice to benefit. Credits are retained even if you leave the DPA location later. You can combine scaling with a 6-month locum provider number to work in non-DPA locations before completing the full moratorium. 2. The Five-Year International Medical Graduates Recruitment Scheme The 5-Year IMG Scheme is designed to attract and retain Overseas Trained Doctors (OTDs) in smaller rural communities. By committing to eligible locations, you may reduce your moratorium to as little as three years . Eligibility Requirements: Hold or obtain registration with the Medical Board of Australia . Be eligible for FRACGP or FACRRM within two years of starting the Scheme. Work at least seven sessions per week in private General Practice (not hospital-based). Complete the required years at the assigned location. Eligible Locations (Examples): Location Required Years Albany, WA 5 Broome, WA 4 Darwin, NT 5 Hall’s Creek, WA 3 Port Hedland, WA 4 Tom Price, WA 3 Cardwell, QLD 4 Ingram, QLD 5 Note: Leaving the location early will forfeit the benefits of the Five-Year IMG Scheme, but you retain moratorium scaling credits . Benefits of Rural and Remote Practice Working in rural and remote areas offers both professional and lifestyle advantages : Broader scope of practice and opportunity to develop sub-specialties . High demand for GPs often leads to higher earnings , including private billing and government incentive payments. Strong community appreciation and a chance to make a meaningful impact . Structured support systems help IMGs transition successfully, including orientation, mentoring, and guidance from colleges and workforce agencies. Many IMGs move to metropolitan practices after their moratorium, but some choose to stay longer to enjoy the slower pace of rural life while fast-tracking their careers. Take the Next Step By working in rural and remote practices , IMGs can reduce their moratorium, gain Fellowship, earn higher incomes, and provide care to communities in need. Doctor Connect has vacancies in rural and remote practices that can help you shorten your 10-year moratorium and advance your career. Contact us today to explore opportunities in regional Australia.

MICGPs holding CSCST, and MRCGPs holding CCT may be able to start work in Australia within 3 months, or less, of registration processing time. General Practitioners Prioritised GPs are the first of the priority specialists identified by the Medical Board to create a fast track process to get more medical specialists to Australia. The Kruk review explicitly recommended the creation of an alternative fast-track pathway to specialist registration for eligible medical specialists from countries with comparable healthcare systems. https://doctorconnect.blog/3TvPRwq Eligible SIMGs on the expedited specialist pathway will be granted specialist registration with conditions that allow them to work as a specialist while undertaking six months of supervised practice, cultural safety education and an orientation to the Australian healthcare system. The new, expedited pathway for doctors with eligible qualifications will sit alongside the existing pathways to specialist registration, which will remain in place for SIMGs not eligible for the expedited pathway. Over the last year there has also been a 26% decrease in the time taken to assess applications. https://doctorconnect.blog/3ZsdvOm RACGP is committed to doing what it can to make it simpler, less onerous, and more streamlined https://doctorconnect.blog/47ujqED Doctor Connect – Your Partner  Doctor Connect is a medical recruitment specialist with a long history of helping to connect doctors with supportive practices and communities. As well as being able to advise you of your eligibility, and connect you with suitable job options in all regions of Australia, we have an excellent registrations team who will make sure you move through this new expedited process as quick and smoothly as possible. Get in touch with your recruitment consultant today: WhatsApp: +61 459 064 707

Doctors moving to Australia through the AHPRA Expedited Pathway or the RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway may qualify for the Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) Specialist Skills stream visa . This visa is designed for organisations unable to find suitably qualified doctors within Australia—a situation particularly common in regional Australia . Stages of Immigration for General Practitioners 1. Preceding Stage – Business Sponsorship Application The employing practice applies to the Department of Home Affairs to register as a business sponsor. This application is valid for five years and is the employer’s responsibility and cost. 2. Stage 1 – Nomination Application Each GP and their family requires a separate nomination application. Responsibilities include: Running labour market testing through job advertisements. Providing a signed employment contract . Submitting details to the Department of Home Affairs to receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN) for the GP. 3. Stage 2 – Visa Application and Medicals Using AHPRA registration , GPs demonstrate they have the necessary skills and experience. Key requirements include: Meeting medical and character requirements (police check and visa medical). Booking a visa medical after receiving a HAP-ID number in the referral letter from ImmiAccount. Generating a TRN via the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system on the Department of Home Affairs website. Tip: To avoid delays, complete the police check and visa medical once your AHPRA application is lodged. Permanent Residency (PR) Pathway for GPs There is a clear pathway for General Practitioners and their families to gain Permanent Residency in Australia . Key points: PR ensures a stable GP workforce in regional Australia . Discuss your PR strategy with a qualified immigration agency . GPs over 45 working in regional areas for at least two years may still become eligible for PR. Visa Costs for General Practitioners Fee Paid By Amount (AUD) Business Sponsorship Application Practice $1,800 + GST Nomination Application Practice $2,500 + GST Visa Application – Main Applicant GP $3,115 Visa Application – Dependant 18+ GP $3,115 per person Visa Application – Dependant under 18 GP $760 per person Fees are subject to change. The GP usually covers Department of Home Affairs visa fees. Important Notes Doctor Connect does not provide immigration advice . We can connect you with experienced immigration solicitors specialising in GP migration. Additional costs may apply for solicitor services. For official guidance, contact the Department of Home Affairs or a qualified immigration solicitor: Doctor Connect SIDSS Visa Information .

If you’re considering working as a General Practitioner (GP) in Australia, understanding how GP income works is crucial. Unlike many professions, Australian GPs are generally contractors, not salaried employees , meaning their earnings depend on the fee-for-service model and total billings. At Doctor Connect, we help GPs navigate their career opportunities and find positions that match both their professional goals and lifestyle. How GPs Are Paid in Australia In Australian general practices, GPs are paid primarily through billings generated from consultations , rather than receiving a fixed salary. This model encourages GPs to: Provide high-quality patient care Build strong patient relationships Work efficiently while maintaining a healthy work-life balance As a result, experienced GPs can achieve an excellent income while enjoying flexibility in their schedules . Understanding Total Billing Total billing refers to the overall income generated from your consulting activities. Not all billing goes directly to the GP; a portion covers practice costs, including staff wages, rent, utilities, and other expenses. Each consultation is billed using Medicare , Australia’s universal health insurance system, often with additional payments from patients. For example: A standard 6–20 minute consult is listed as Item 23 Medicare pays $41.40 , and patients typically pay a gap, bringing total income for the consult to around $80 GPs on the RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway receive the full Medicare rebate , just like fully qualified Australian GPs. Calculating Total Billings Here’s an example of how total billings translate into income: Consultations per hour: 4 patients Weekly hours: 38 Weekly billing: 4 × 38 × $80 ≈ $10,000 Annual billing (46 weeks): $10,000 × 46 = $460,000 GP Earnings as a Percentage of Billings GPs do not keep all billing income. Their percentage of billings is agreed upon in the practice’s services agreement. Typical splits include: 60% GP – 40% Practice 65% GP – 35% Practice 70% GP – 30% Practice For non-VR GPs requiring supervision, percentages may start slightly lower but rise once the GP achieves fellowship. Example: With $460,000 annual billing and a 70% split, a GP’s pre-tax income would be $322,000 . Taxes and Take-Home Income Using the Australian Tax Office calculator , a GP earning $322,000 pre-tax could expect an after-tax income of approximately $206,000 . For context, the median weekly earnings in Australia are around $1,300 (≈$67,600 annually). A GP’s income is roughly three times the national average , offering a comfortable lifestyle for you and your family. Additional Components of GP Income Minimum Hourly Rate Some practices guarantee a minimum rate for the first three months (e.g., $150/hour or 65% of billings, whichever is higher) to help GPs settle into a new role. Minimum Annual Income Certain practices offer a first-year minimum income (e.g., $150,000) for financial stability, with higher percentages once fully established. Relocation and Sign-On Bonuses Many practices provide one-off payments to help with moving costs, sometimes split into multiple instalments. Car and Accommodation Allowances Less common today, but may still exist in smaller or rural practices. Rural Incentives Working in regional towns may provide additional financial incentives and may reduce your 10-year DPA moratorium . Ways to Increase Your GP Income The fee-for-service model offers multiple opportunities to increase earnings: Working in locations with a GP shortage ensures a fully booked schedule Adjusting hours to meet patient demand (e.g., early mornings, evenings, weekends) Providing specialised or complex consultations (supported by RACGP specialty pathways) Taking advantage of bulk billing incentives , which are often higher in rural areas Financial Responsibilities for GPs As a contractor, you’ll need to plan for: Tax payments Medical registration costs Medical indemnity insurance Leave provisions (typically 4–6 weeks per year) Health insurance (for temporary visa holders until permanent residency) Doctor Connect can guide you through all these financial considerations and help you find a GP position that suits your lifestyle and goals. Why Work with Doctor Connect? At Doctor Connect, we specialise in GP recruitment across Australia , connecting doctors with practices that match their professional expertise and personal lifestyle. We provide support with: Salary negotiations and practice agreements Understanding total GP income and billing models Relocation, sign-on bonuses, and rural incentives Whether you are a specialist GP , a fellowed GP , or a new VR GP , we help you maximise your income while building a rewarding career. Disclaimer: This blog provides general information about GP income in Australia. Actual earnings vary by practice, location, and experience. Doctor Connect does not guarantee income but can help you find the right opportunity to flourish professionally and financially.

If you’re an international doctor planning to work in Australia, one of the first steps you’ll need to take is creating a MyIntealth account. MyIntealth is the secure online portal managed by Intealth, where you can verify your medical credentials through EPIC (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials). This verification is required before you can proceed with the Australian Medical Council (AMC) registration process. To make things easier, we’ve broken down the process of accessing MyIntealth and setting up your account. How to Create a MyIntealth Applicant Account Follow these steps to register as a first-time user: Go to the official site – Visit www.myintealth.app , click MyIntealth Applicant Portal , then select Access MyIntealth . Start your account setup – Click “Don’t have a MyIntealth account?” and enter your email address to receive a verification code. Verify your email – Check your inbox, enter the code on the site, and click Verify Code . Once confirmed, click Continue . Create your account – Fill in all required fields and click Create Account . Accept terms – Log in, review the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Notice, then click Next . Access the portal – You’ll land on the MyIntealth Applicant Portal homepage , ready to begin your application and upload documents. Establishing Your MyIntealth Applicant Account Once your profile is active, you can start your application: Click Begin Application for the service you need (e.g., EPIC ). Review the information pages, then click Next . Enter your personal details (name, address, citizenship, etc.) and click Next . Add your medical school by searching its name. If it doesn’t appear, you can add it manually. Include any additional schools if applicable, then click Next . Complete or skip optional sections such as Medical Registration and Additional Information . Review your application summary and click Next . Agree to the terms and conditions by ticking all checkboxes, then click Accept . Enter your payment details and click Pay . Once payment is successful, you’ll see a confirmation message and receive an email. Completing the Intealth Identification Form (IIF) After your initial account request is processed, MyIntealth will notify you when it’s time to complete your Intealth Identification Form (IIF) . Review your personalised IIF. Release it for notarization via NotaryCam , which connects you to licensed U.S. notaries online. Once notarised, your MyIntealth account is fully established, and you can continue with your certification process. MyIntealth Fees (as of September 2025) Here are the current fees associated with MyIntealth: MyIntealth Account Establishment – US$100 Application for ECFMG Certification – US$560 Verification of Credentials for ECFMG Certification – US$200 US$100 for final medical diploma US$100 for final medical school transcript Final Thoughts Setting up your MyIntealth account is the first step toward ECFMG certification and accessing essential services like EPIC. While the process involves multiple steps, including verification, payment, and notarization, once complete, it gives international medical graduates a clear pathway to pursue training and career opportunities in the U.S. At Doctor Connect, we support medical professionals every step of the way. If you’re navigating the MyIntealth application process and need guidance, get in touch with our team today.

Immigration for International SIMG GPs Moving to Australia in 2026 Doctors moving to Australia on the AHPRA Expedited Pathway, or the RACGP  PEP Specialist Pathway will come on the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) This visa is for organisations who have been unable to get suitably qualified doctors from within Australia, which is the normal situation in regional Australia currently. Three Stages Stage 1  Sponsorship Application , by the practice, to the Department of Home Affairs, This is the employer registering to be a business sponsor, it’s valid for 5 years. This is the employer responsibility and cost Stage 2 Nomination Application . This is specific to each GP and their family, it’s the employers responsibility and cost. This includes running suitable job advertisement for labour market testing, and a signed contract. The practice then submits the details of the person and their family to the department, and they are then issued with your sponsorship Transaction Reference Number TRN. Stage 3 Visa Application – Using your AHPRA registration, you will prove that you have the skills and experience to do the job. You need to have a Transaction Reference Number TRN (from the previous step) to be able to lodge this application. Permanent Residency As you plan your move to Australia to work as a GP, you will understand that there is a clear path for General Practitioners and their families to gain Permanent Residency. Your practice and colleagues will encourage you to go through this pathway, this is a positive way to ensure a strong General Practice workforce for the future. It’s a good idea for you to have a strategy for Permanent Residency as part of your migration strategy plan. For other job types, PR normally requires you to be under 45 years of age. The good news is that as a General Practitioner over the age of 45, you are certainly eligible – you are required to work in a regional area for 2 years. Which you are required to do because of MM2 and DPA. Visa Medicals Visa Medicals can be conducted when you have your HAP-ID number. Costs The General Practitioner themself will usually pay the Department Of Home Affairs visa application fees • $3,035.00 for the main applicant and for each dependant 18 years and over • $760.00 for each dependant under 18 years old. Separately, if you choose to use an Immigration Solicitor fees to process this Immigration applicaton paperwork, then you will have an additional cost:  1. Standard Business sponsorship fee – $1800+GST 2. Nomination application fee: $2500+GST 3. Visa application fee $2300.00 for a single applicant and  $300.00 for each additional applicant)+GST *Please contact us for clarification and related queries, we’ll do our best to guide you, but note that Doctor Connect is not an approved Immigration Service Provider. We do have an excellent experienced Immigration Solicitor who we are happy to connect you with.

1. Proof of Identity You must complete an identity check. AHPRA uses InstaID+, a secure independent provider. Required Documents: Foreign Passport (EU cards are not accepted) Certified copy of the identity information page (photo page) Official English translation (if not in English) Any 2 of the following: Current driver’s license (from a country you have resided in) with photoand signature Foreign marriage certificate Foreign national ID card Foreign birth certificate Current Australian visa (valid at time of entry) — must be provided withoverseas passport or travel document Credit/Debit card 2. Primary Degree A certified copy of your original academic transcript and testimony or certificate thatindicates completion of the qualification. 3. Specialist Qualification Provide certified copies of: MRCGP Certificate & CCT Certificate. 4. Certificates of Good Standing If registered outside Australia, arrange for original Certificates of Registration Status or Certificates of Good Standing to be sent directly from the registering authority to your AHPRA state or territory office. Email for submission: COGS@ahpra.gov.au 5. Criminal History Check Submit the International Criminal History Check (ICHC) reference page from the approved vendor.Apply here:International Criminal History Checks – AHPRA 6. Offer of Employment To be provided by your practice/employer. 7. English Language Proficiency Use the AHPRA self-assessment tool to determine your required pathway and evidence: English Language Skills – AHPRA 8. Confirmation of UK Training Request confirmation of your specialist or GP training from the RCGP via the GMC website. Note: This is different from the CCT document already provided. Document Certification Requirements All certified documents must include the following: Statement: “I have sighted the original document and certify this to be a true copy of the original.” Date of certification Authorised officer’s full name Contact phone number Occupation or profession (and profession number, if applicable) Officer’s stamp or seal, if relevant

Medicare’s 19AB rules require doctors who studied their medical degree outside Australia to work in an area of distribution priority area (DPA) for their first 10 years of practice here. The Department of Health offers a pathway called “scaling” to reduce the 10 year period by working in general practice in more rural and remote areas. Under the scaling system, working in rural and remote areas earns scaling credits. The more remote the location, the more credits you earn. So, if someone works in Toodyay (80 mins drive from the Perth CBD) the RA2 classification means that your moratorium would be 9 years. If you work in Port Hedland (an hour’s flight to Perth), the RA4 classification means that your moratorium will be 6 years. The fact sheet is here . You’ll need to refer to the Health Workforce Locator . Type in the address and tick “ASGS Remoteness Areas 2016”, this will let you know the RA classification. By logging into your Health Professional Online Services account, you can check your current scaling credits, view the date you are eligible for the class exemption from 19AB and check the end date of your moratorium.

Location requirement:                   DPA/MM4+ The Specialist pathway is an assessment pathway with a focus on rural and remote practice. It provides International Medical Graduates, with a recognised overseas general practice qualification, the opportunity to gain Fellowship with ACRRM and recognition and registration in the specialty of general practice while living and working within Australia. The Specialist Pathway leads to Specialist registration in the specialty of general practice with the Medical Board of Australia and Fellowship of ACRRM (FACRRM). Doctors who have ACRRM-recognised overseas specialist qualifications in general practice or family medicine, may apply for assessment by ACRRM on the Specialist Pathway. This includes Canadian or New Zealand GP specialists under Ad eundem gradum arrangements. Doctors on the ACRRM Specialist Pathway must work in a rural health service (MM4+ location) to enable of rural generalist competencies to be assessed. You don’t need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident to take part in this program. C ontact us to discuss locations. For more information CLICK HERE Earnings:                    Full A1 (VR) Medicare rebate Eligibility: If you hold one of the following qualifications you’re eligible to apply to be assessed by ACRRM under the College’s Specialist pathway. Belgium               Specialist Certificate in general practice/family medicine Canada                 Certificate in Family Medicine from College of Family Physicians Canada (CFPC) Denmark              Specialist Certificate in Family Medicine Hong Kong          Fellowship of the Hong Kong College of General Practitioners Ireland                 Members of the Irish College of General Practice (MICGP) Netherlands        Certificate of Specific Training for General Practice New Zealand      Fellowship of the Division of Rural Hospital Medicine New Zealand (FDRHMNZ) New Zealand      Holders of Fellowship of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (FRNZCGP) Norway                Certificate of Specific Training for General Medical Practice Singapore            Fellowship of the College of Family Physicians Singapore South Africa        Holders of Master of Family Medicine, South Africa, and South Africa        Holders of Fellowship of the College of Family Physicians Sweden                Certificate of Specific Training for General Practice United Kingdom Membership of the Royal College of General Practice (MRCGP) USA                       Holders of Certificate of the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM)

Applying for a Tax File Number in Australia Receiving a Tax File Number (TFN) is crucial for anybody looking to work in Australia. Below is some important information for those looking to start the Tax File Number application process. Key Points: Keep your boarding pass, to confirm the details of your arrival in Australia. It’s a great idea to apply for this in the days after you arrive, to be able to get the process moving. Foreign passport holders, permanent migrants and temporary visitors can apply for a TFN online using Individual Auto Registration (IAR). For more information, go to iar.ato.gov.au To work in Australia, you will need a valid visa.  You can apply for a TFN if you meet all the following 3 conditions: You are a foreign passport holder, permanent migrant or temporary visitor. You are already in Australia. Your visa is one of the following: a permanent resident visa a visa with work rights an overseas student visa a visa allowing you to stay in Australia indefinitely (including New Zealanders automatically granted a visa on arrival). To apply online IAR you must have a valid passport or relevant travel documents. If you don’t have a valid visa, you can’t apply for a TFN.