How to Register for VAT in UAE for New Company

Starting a new company in the UAE comes with important registrations—one of the most critical is how to register for VAT in UAE for new company. Whether your taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 or you want to benefit from voluntary VAT registration, it’s essential to understand the how to register VAT for new company process. Here's your step-by-step guide to register for VAT number, register your company for VAT, and how to register for VAT in UAE online.

Since its implementation in 2018, VAT has generated over AED 95 billion in revenue for the UAE, with more than 340,000 businesses registered. This highlights the growing importance of VAT compliance for both new and established companies.

1. Determine Eligibility: Mandatory or Voluntary VAT Registration

• Mandatory Registration: If your business’s taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 in the past 12 months—or are expected to in the next 30 days—you must register for VAT.

• Voluntary Registration: If your turnover or expenses exceed AED 187,500, you may choose to register voluntarily—useful for startups aiming to reclaim input VAT.

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2. Prepare Required Documents

Make sure you have the following documents ready for register your company for VAT:

• Trade license (valid copy)

• Passport or Emirates ID of owners or authorised signatories

• Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Certificate of Incorporation

• Bank account details (letter or IBAN)

• Evidence of turnover (financial statements or invoices)

• Business address proof (e.g., tenancy/UAE address)

• Power of Attorney, if applicable

3. How to Register for VAT in UAE Online

Step-by-Step: The EmaraTax Portal Process

1. Create an e‑Services (EmaraTax) Account

Visit the Federal Tax Authority’s portal and sign up using your email and phone number. Verify your email to activate your account.

2. Set Up a Taxable Person Profile

Under your dashboard, add a new taxable person profile with your company’s legal details.

3. Initiate VAT Registration

Navigate to “Value Added Tax” in the portal and click “Register” to begin the process.

4. Complete the Application Form

Provide details such as:

• Business activities, turnover, and future expectations

• Bank information and taxable supplies/expenses

• Upload required documents (PDF, JPG, PNG; max 5MB each)

5. Finish & Submit

Review carefully and submit the form. There’s no direct fee charged by the FTA—costs are only for external services like attestations, translations, or consultancy.

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4. Post-Submission: What to Expect

• Approval Timeline: The Federal Tax Authority may take up to 20 working days to issue your Tax Registration Number (TRN) and VAT certificate.

• Receive Confirmation: Once approved, your VAT certificate is available in your EmaraTax e‑Services dashboard.

5. After Registration: Compliance is Key

Once registered, you must:

• Issue VAT‑inclusive invoices with TRN.

• Maintain accurate financial records for at least 5 years.

• File VAT returns electronically within 28 days after each tax period—quarterly or monthly based on turnover.

• Pay any net VAT due or claim refunds if input tax exceeds output tax.

6. Why Timely VAT Registration Matters

• Avoid Penalties: Late VAT registration can result in fines of up to AED 10,000, with additional penalties for delayed VAT filings or payments.

• Claim Input VAT: Registered businesses can reclaim input VAT, improving overall cash flow and profitability.

• Boost Business Credibility: VAT registration enhances your company’s credibility with clients, partners, and government entities.

• Strategic Business Support: For better financial planning and compliance, explore our Business Advisory & Corporate Solutions to help your company stay compliant and grow with confidence.

Conclusion

If you're searching for “how to register for VAT in UAE for new company” or wondering how to register for VAT in UAE online, this guide equips you with everything you need—from eligibility and documents to creating an EmaraTax account, applying for a VAT registration number, and staying compliant post-registration. For expert support in navigating tax regulations, you can also explore our Tax Strategy & Compliance Services.

FAQs

1. How do you register your VAT?

You can register for VAT in the UAE online through the EmaraTax portal on the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) website.

2. How much does it cost to register for VAT in UAE?

VAT registration through the FTA is free of charge, though you may incur costs if using consultancy services.

3. Who is eligible for VAT in the UAE?

Businesses with taxable supplies exceeding AED 375,000 annually must register; those above AED 187,500 can register voluntarily.

4. Can I register for VAT with no turnover in the UAE?

Yes, if your expenses exceed AED 187,500, you may apply for voluntary registration.

5. When can we register for VAT?

You must register when your taxable turnover crosses the threshold or is expected to exceed it within 30 days.

6. Who is not eligible for VAT?

Businesses with taxable supplies below AED 187,500 are not eligible for either mandatory or voluntary VAT registration.

7. What documents are required for VAT registration in the UAE?

Trade license, passport/Emirates ID, MOA, bank details, address proof, and financial records.

8. Are VAT and TRN the same?

No, VAT is the tax system, while TRN (Tax Registration Number) is the unique number assigned after successful registration.

9. Can you charge VAT without being registered?

No, charging VAT without being registered is illegal and subject to penalties.

10. What is the fine for not filing VAT in UAE?

The penalty for late filing starts at AED 1,000 for the first offense and AED 2,000 for repeated offenses, plus potential additional fines.