Handling taxes is stressful for every business in the realm of tax compliance, where even the smallest mistake can result in hefty penalties. Setting up a business involves multiple government approvals and formalities. One of the smartest moves a business can make in the UAE’s evolving tax environment is having a valid Tax Registration Number in the UAE. Obtaining a TRN in the UAE is a legal obligation for UAE businesses under the UAE Value Added Tax system.
Despite its necessity, the application procedure for the TRN in the UAE can be stressful. Many businesses may find themselves confused by the eligibility rules, documentation processes, and risks that lead to minor errors and penalties.
This article will take you step-by-step through the process of getting your TRN in the UAE, the requirements, and the reason it is important for your business.
Definition: Tax Registration Number in the UAE
A Tax Registration Number (TRN) is a 15-digit unique number assigned by the FTA in the UAE to all businesses and individuals which are registered for UAE VAT. A TRN is proof of UAE VAT Registration and is essential for tax compliance and obligations in the UAE. Under the UAE VAT law, you are legally obliged to include your TRN on your invoices, tax returns, and other official records.
Who Must Apply for a TRN in the UAE?
In the UAE, obtaining a TRN is crucial for businesses and individuals falling within the purview of UAE VAT. Let’s see the breakdown:-
- UAE VAT-registered business: Businesses falling under the purview of UAE VAT must obtain a TRN to facilitate smooth UAE VAT return filing, issuing VAT-compliant invoices, and to comply with the UAE VAT regulations.
- Mainland and Free zone Entities: A TRN will be issued to businesses in both mainland and free zones in the UAE if their taxable turnover exceeds the mandatory VAT registration threshold of AED 375,000 and application for registration is submitted.
- Cross-border business: Those businesses involved in cross-border trade must hold a TRN to comply with UAE VAT and customs regulations.
- Sole Entrepreneurs and Freelancers: Freelancers or sole entrepreneurs must obtain a UAE TRN if any taxable activity is subject to the UAE VAT system.
- Non-residents in UAE: Foreign business owners conducting taxable activity in the UAE must secure a TRN in the UAE to stay compliant with UAE VAT.
Eligibility Criteria to get TRN for UAE residents
The issuance of a TRN is the same as part of the UAE VAT registration. So, the eligibility requirement for VAT registration is the same as TRN registration in Dubai, UAE. To qualify for a VAT registration number or TRN in the UAE, a business must meet at least one of the below criteria:
Voluntary Registration Criteria for VAT/ TRN:
One can choose to register for VAT in the UAE and obtain a TRN if:
- A business is generating revenue exceeding AED 187,500 and below AED 375,000.
- Voluntary TRN registration is best for startups or emerging companies looking to stay ahead of UAE VAT regulations.
Mandatory registration for VAT/TRN registration:
One must register for VAT and obtain a TRN in the UAE if:
- A business is generating revenue hits mandatory threshold of AED 375,000.
- Businesses must register for VAT in the UAE if their revenue has surpassed the threshold in the previous 12 months or is projected to exceed it in the upcoming 30 days; failing to do so can result in substantial fines.
Documents Needed for UAE TRN Registration
To obtain a Tax Registration Number (TRN) in the UAE, you will need to provide certain documentation to the UAE’s FTA. Working with a qualified and professional tax consultancy in the UAE, like Jaxa Chartered Accountants, will make the process much easier. Jaxa Auditors, Dubai has over 18 years’ experience in tax compliance and makes these processes affordable, fast, and accurate by walking you through every single step of the TRN registration process.
To register TRN successfully in the UAE, the following list of documents is required:
- Valid Trade License
- Company’s Certificate of Incorporation/Formation/Registration (if applicable)
- Company’s Memorandum/Articles of Association (if applicable)
- Emirates ID & Passport copies of the manager/shareholders
- Bank account details of the Company
- Turnover declaration letter
- Sample sales and purchase invoices
- Customs registration letter (if applicable)
With Jaxa’s expert support and guidance, we can assure that your application is accurately prepared and aligned with UAE FTA requirements, saving your time and ensuring seamless approval.
Key Reasons Your UAE Business Needs a TRN
For businesses operating in the UAE, obtaining a Tax Registration Number (TRN) is vital to ensure you stay compliant under UAE VAT regulations, improve reporting, and avoid penalties from the UAE FTA. The key reasons:
Timely and error-free VAT returns
TRN registration in the UAE helps businesses to file VAT returns accurately, timely, and error-free.
Stay 100% FTA compliant
Ensure 100% compliance with the UAE’s FTA regulations.
Stay Penalty Free
Accurate and timely TRN registration and meeting UAE FTA regulations help to avoid penalties.
Earn Global Trust
A valid UAE TRN strengthens trust with international partners.
Unlock VAT Refund
With a valid UAE TRN, one can claim VAT on eligible purchases, helping businesses to become financially healthy.
Boosts Financial Integrity
A TRN in the UAE enables tracking VAT-related transactions, reducing the chance of fraud or error.
Streamline VAT Invoicing and Tax Checks
A UAE TRN is essential to streamline VAT invoices, accurate tax records, and meet UAE FTA regulations.
Stay Ahead of Regulatory Shifts
A TRN assures that your business can respond swiftly to changes in UAE tax laws.
Guide to Getting a TRN Online in UAE
The process of obtaining a Tax Registration Number (TRN) in the UAE is streamlined and can be efficiently completed through the step-by-step procedures defined by the UAE FTA’s EmaraTax portal, for businesses with turnover that meets the VAT threshold in the UAE.
- Access the EmaraTax portal via the UAE FTA’s official website.
- Create your account by clicking on the “Sign Up” tab.
- Provide your email and contact details in the registration form.
- Log in with UAE Pass to simplify the signup process.
- Upon login, the main dashboard of your UAE FTA’s EmaraTax account will be displayed.
- Click on Register for VAT to start the application.
- Complete the VAT registration application form.
- Ensure all business details are correctly entered in the UAE TRN registration form.
- Ensure you meet the criteria and have the necessary documentation ready.
- Review and submit the application
- After the FTA evaluation and approval, which can take atleast 20 business days, the TRN/VAT certificate will be displayed on the FTA dashboard.
Working with a certified FTA tax agent in Dubai, UAE, like Jaxa Chartered Accountants, simplifies the TRN application process.
Expected Timeframe to Receive Your TRN Certificate
After applying for VAT registration through the UAE FTA’s EmaraTax portal, approval typically takes 20 business days, based on the accuracy of your application. Once approved, your TRN (Tax Registration Number) and official VAT certificate will be available for download via the UAE FTA dashboard.
Quick Guide to TRN Verification in the UAE
Using the UAE FTA’s TRN checker tool, you can instantly verify if a TRN is valid. Simply input the 15-digit number to see:
- The legal name of the registered entity
- TRN validity confirmation
- UAE VAT registration details
UAE TRN Updation Checklist
To maintain UAE VAT compliance, the master details of the Company linked to the TRN must be updated periodically. Missed updation may lead to penalties. The checklist to follow:-
- Carefully track TRN updation and document (license, passport, Emirates ID etc) renewal details
- File the amendment application early
- Ensure updated VAT returns and payments
- Monitor UAE FTA alerts
Need assistance? Jaxa Chartered Accountants in the UAE offers complete support for TRN renewal and VAT compliance, ensuring your business remains fully compliant and penalty-free.
Time to Act: Updated 2025 VAT & TRN Compliance Requirements
In 2025, the UAE FTA tightened security on VAT compliance. Businesses failing to register VAT in the UAE or submit incorrect TRN details may be penalized, such as:-
- Up to AED 10,000 in administrative fines
- Penalties for late UAE VAT registration
- Risk of audit or license suspension
Stay VAT compliant with JAXA Auditors in Dubai. With a wealth of experience, our certified VAT consultant and certified FTA tax agent in the UAE ensure that tax filings are accurate, timely, and hassle-free.
Partner with the Top VAT Consultant in the UAE
Obtaining a TRN in the UAE is an obligatory requirement for staying compliant with UAE VAT. Engaging with the best accounting and auditing firm and a UAE Certified tax agent – Jaxa Chartered Accountants in simplifying TRN registration, document preparation, updations, and post-registration support. Our certified VAT consultant in Dubai provides all-in-one VAT services from VAT registration to VAT audit in the UAE.
Take the first step towards the UAE’s VAT compliance with confidence. Let Jaxa Auditors, Dubai, handle the hassle while you focus on growing your business. Contact us today!
Stay Compliant, Stay Ahead, Save penalties!
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