Obtaining a UAE tax registration number (TRN) is straightforward, and you can complete it entirely online. If your annual taxable sales exceed AED 375,000 — you need to register for the value-added tax (VAT). However, you can voluntarily register to recover input VAT, if the figure is higher than AED 187,500.
Register with EmaraTax, add your business to input details of your UAE trade license and upload ID documents, then click submit. You’ll be provided with your TRN once you’re approved. So let’s get into this blog and we will walk you through step by step.
Key insights of the UAE tax registration number (TRN)
These are the notable insights of the UAE tax registration number (TRN).
- VAT registration is mandatory for a turnover exceeding AED 375,000 and voluntary for a turnover of AED 187,500 or less. (Source: FTA)
- Businesses crossing these thresholds must obtain a TRN to remain legally compliant and claim input VAT. (Source: FTA Guidelines)
- The FTA conducted over 93,000 tax inspections in 2024, representing a 135% increase in enforcement. (Source: FTA Annual Compliance Report)
- Failure to register for VAT/TRN after exceeding the threshold results in a fine of AED 10,000. (Source: UAE VAT Penalty Regulation)
- Free Zone, offshore, and non-resident businesses must register for TRN if they make taxable supplies in the UAE. (Source: UAE VAT Executive Regulations)
Process to acquire the UAE tax registration number
This is the step-by-step procedure to obtain the UAE tax registration number (TRN).
- Create an FTA eServices account
- Log in and select VAT registration
- Fill out the TRN application form
- Upload necessary legal documents
- Review and submit the TRN application
- Receive the TRN after FTA approval
Now, we briefly look upon the steps to take the UAE tax registration number (TRN).
Create an FTA eServices account
Begin by visiting the Federal Tax Authority’s eServices portal (EmaraTax). Sign up with your email address, phone number and password. You will receive a verification link or OTP to activate your account.
Log in and select VAT registration
After your account has been activated, sign in to the portal and navigate to the dashboard. Click on “VAT Registration” and from the menu options, choose “TRN” to complete the registration process.
Fill out the TRN application form
The online VAT registration form will be launched. Fill in your business information, such as the full legal name, your trade license number and what you do for a living. Also, enter how to be contacted and some financial details – turnover will suffice.
Upload necessary legal documents
Once you have filled the form, kindly upload all required documents, including trade license, owner/ authorized signatory Emirates ID & passport and bank account (IBAN) details along with Activity proof & revenue.
Review and submit the TRN application
The information in the written application should be carefully checked against the relevant parts of your proposal and documentation. Once everything is in place, resubmit the application through the portal.
Receive the TRN after FTA approval
Your submission will be evaluated by the FTA. Once everything is in order, you will be approved, and they’ll provide you with your TRN. You will find the TRN under your EmaraTax account dashboard, as well as in an email confirmation.
Importance of the UAE tax registration number for business
UAE tax registration number (TRN) is significant, because it is mandatory when you cross the VAT threshold. It lets you to remain compliant with the international tax laws and local Emirati regulations. Additionally, you can use it for input VAT recovery, which is essential for customs and import VAT purposes.
The UAE government organizations and big companies often request TRN before you sign up to work with them. UAE tax registration number establishes the credibility of your company both globally and locally. An active TRN protects yourself from fines and other regulatory sanctions in the UAE.
The description in the TRN field is numerical, for example, 15 digits (for example: 100123456700003, sample only). In the headers section of an invoice, display your supplier’s TRN (if issued) along with their name and address. For B2B invoices, you will need to include the customer’s TRN if they are VAT-registered. In the severe cases, its expiry can result to your business license suspension.
Entities which need to register for a TRN in the UAE
Here are the entities which must get a UAE tax registration number (TRN).
Next, we take a brief look on the entities which must obtain a UAE tax registration number (TRN).
Mandatory UAE TRN Registration
Register when your taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 in a rolling 12-month period or are anticipated to exceed AED 375,000 in the next 30 days. “Taxable supplies” refer to those that are standard-rated, zero-rated, or subject to the reverse charge. They exclude exempt supplies, such as most financial services and some residential lettings.
Voluntary UAE TRN Registration
You can sign up when your taxable supplies exceed AED 187,500. Voluntary registration will enable you to claim credit for input VAT and may improve cash flow. However, it also entails all the obligations associated with VAT compliance.
Business Types Requiring TRN
These are the kinds of businesses which must have a UAE tax registration number (TRN).
- Mainland businesses: Sign up if you are above the cusp, or anticipate being so soon.
- Free zone companies: VAT applies to free zones (including Designated Zones with different regulations). You must register if you exceed the threshold.
- Foreign & non-resident providers: If you provide taxable supplies in the UAE, you are normally required to register.
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Obtain the UAE tax registration number with KWS ME
A TRN in the UAE is essential for a business to be able to do business legally, generate VAT invoices, file the returns and take input VAT. It is a way to increase customer, supplier and Public Sector confidence as well as guaranteeing adherence with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). You can easily acquire the UAE tax registration number with the help of KWS Middle East.
If you are registering for the first time, checking your TRN , or preparing to cancel it, accurate information and documents can reduce the chances of delay and penalties. Our experts can help you navigate the process with ease. For connecting with KWS Middle East, call us at +97180059763, email us at info@kwsme.com, or WhatsApp us at +971509664705 now.
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FAQs regarding the UAE tax registration number (TRN)
These are the answers to the common questions about the UAE tax registration number (TRN).
What is the UAE tax registration number (TRN)?
The UAE tax registration number (TRN) is an exclusive identification number assigned by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in the UAE to companies that have been registered for the value-added tax (VAT). You must have TRN registration to charge VAT, submit VAT returns on EmaraTax, and recover any input tax. Also, you must show it on the documents relating to the applicable UAE taxes like the VAT invoices, credit notes.
Is the TRN the same as VAT number in the UAE?
Yes. In the UAE, the Tax Registration Number (TRN) is the official VAT number issued by the Federal Tax Authority to businesses registered for VAT.
Can individuals apply for a TRN in the UAE?
Individuals can only apply for a TRN if they are conducting a business activity in their personal name and their taxable turnover meets the registration threshold.
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