How to access myGov and ATO online services while overseas

Going on an extended vacation? Moving overseas? Make sure to check your myGov sign in options before you go! That way, you’ll be able to access ATO online services from wherever you are in the world.

What do I need to do before I leave Australia?

Checking you’ll still be able to access ATO online services while overseas before you leave may save you a headache down the road! If you won't have access to your Australian mobile number, you'll need to use one of the following sign in options instead:

• myID this opens in a new window 

• an approved authenticator for use with myGov this opens in a new window 

• passkeys this opens in a new window .

To check and update your myGov sign in option, once signed in, go to Menu or My account > Account settings > Sign in settings.

Tip: If you plan to live overseas, it's important to check your tax and super obligations before you go. If you have a study loan and you intend to live overseas for 183 days or more in any 12-month period, you need to complete an overseas travel notification this opens in a new window . For more info head to Australians living overseas this opens in a new window .

How can I access myGov and ATO online services when I’m already overseas?

Forgot to update your sign-in option before leaving Australia? You may be able to recover your account using a myID with a Strong identity strength. Follow the steps to set up your myID this opens in a new window  and then check out our info on how to recover your account this opens in a new window .

If you’re unable to reach a Strong identity strength, you won’t be able to recover your account. Instead, you’ll need to create a new myGov account and link it to us this opens in a new window . If you're unable to set up a Strong myID, we recommend using a Standard myID to create and sign in to your new myGov account. It’s a more secure sign in option and can simplify the linking process.

For more info about creating a myGov account and linking it to the ATO this opens in a new window  see our website.

How do I lodge my tax return from overseas?

The easiest way to lodge your tax return is through your ATO online services this opens in a new window  using myTax. If you’re having trouble lodging online, you may need to lodge by paper or with a registered tax agent.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may be able to lodge your tax return early - before you leave Australia. The only way to lodge early is with a paper form. Check out our website to find out how to lodge your tax return before leaving Australia this opens in a new window .

For more information about lodging your tax return from outside Australia this opens in a new window , see our website.