rdavies

Hi everyone, hoping someone might be able to help with a question please?
I am going to Australia on a working holiday visa, am I allowed a ABN number on a working holiday visa, and if I am, would this allow me to work for myself and actively seek work selling a product or service? Im under the impression you are, and the purpose on the ABN is so you can invoice people or companies for your service or product, but I'm not sure what is/not allowed with regards to time of working self employed, room for expansion/possible employment, and all the other potential options that may occur. Maybe someone has some experience or knowledge of the matter and could share their know how? Much appreciated!
Rob

SoCalDon

Hey Rob, there's nothing stopping you from applying for an ABN although they're likely to ask you for your Australian Tax File Number which may be a stumbling block.

I got my ABN very soon after arriving in Australia but I didn't start up my little business until my bridging visa actually allowed me to work.

I think that having an ABN is harmless but you must be awfully careful that your visa allows you to carry out the work that you're hoping to do. People will pay you and use your ABN as a reference. If immigration get wind of it somehow you could find yourself in hot water.

rdavies

Hi there, thanks for the reply. Yes I understand, I wanted to ask the question to avoid any hot water what so ever. Not looking to rock any governing body boats!
Im now aware it'll be best to wait till I arrive in the country to apply for a ABN, for the reasons you just said (TFN etc.) How do I find out what business activities I am allowed to undertake in the country once/if a ABN has been granted?
Also what is a bridging visa/why did that then allow you to start doing whatever it was you were doing?
Hope all makes sense, sorry for all the questions, but I'd like to get this right to avoid any delays/potantial illegal doings.
Thanks,
Rob

SoCalDon

You're in the right place Rob and someone will be along shortly to explain what you can and can't do on a WHV. I only ever comment on stuff that I've done myself.

I arrived in Australia on a 12 month tourist visa and, whilst I did obtain a TFN and ABN as a tourist, I did not have permission to work. As soon as I applied for my partner visa, I was issued a bridging visa which allowed me to work as soon as my tourist visa expired. On the day after that took affect it was safe to start my little business and use my ABN. Whilst waiting for this day I obtained my business name and got my website in place so that I could hit the ground running.

Best of luck!