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Getting your IRD number as a new arrival
Your IRD number is your tax number for life. Why you need it before you start work, and the new-arrival process with Inland Revenue.
- Last checked
- 21 Oct 2026
- Next review
- 21 Apr 2027
Inland Revenue (IRD) uses your IRD number to identify you for everything tax-related. It’s free to apply, unique to you, and you keep it for life. You’ll need it before you start a job, and banks will ask for it.
What to do next
- Inland Revenue has a specific online process for people who have recently arrived in New Zealand.
- If you hold a visa, check the final date you must arrive in New Zealand by on your visa, IRD says this is also the date you must apply by to use the new-arrival process. After that, you use the “living in New Zealand” process instead.
- If you’re still overseas, IRD has a separate process for applicants living overseas.
What to bring
What you’ll need (student or work visa)
- Your passport details.
- Your Immigration New Zealand application number.
- Your most recent overseas tax number, if you have one.
How long it takes
IRD says that if your application is approved, you’ll receive your IRD number by text or email in about 2 days. They’ll contact you if they need more information.
Where to check the current rule
Requirements differ by passport and visa type. Check Inland Revenue’s new-arrival page before you apply.