Who needs corporate tax registration?
Corporate tax registration is mandatory for almost every business in the UAE. Registering on time avoids a fixed AED 10,000 penalty, and your Corporate Tax Registration Number is needed to file your annual corporate tax return.
- Mainland LLCs and other UAE companies
- Free zone companies, including those that qualify for the 0% rate on qualifying income
- Holding companies, dormant companies and companies with no profit
- Sole establishments and freelancers whose business turnover goes above AED 1 million in a calendar year
- Foreign companies with a permanent establishment in the UAE
Missed your deadline?
The FTA waives the AED 10,000 late registration penalty for many businesses that file their first corporate tax return within 7 months of the end of their first tax period. We can check whether you qualify.
Documents required for corporate tax registration
- Trade licence
- Memorandum or Articles of Association
- Emirates ID and passport of owners and manager
- Proof of authority for the authorised signatory, such as a power of attorney
- Business address and contact details
- Financial year start and end dates
How VATAXSYS handles your corporate tax registration
Free eligibility check
We confirm your registration deadline and whether any penalty or waiver applies.
Documents
You send your documents using our simple checklist.
Application on EmaraTax
We prepare and submit your corporate tax registration application.
Registration number issued
We respond to any FTA questions and share your Corporate Tax Registration Number.
Corporate Tax Registration FAQs
Do I need corporate tax registration if my company makes no profit?
Yes. Registration is required regardless of profit. Companies with no taxable income still register and file an annual corporate tax return.
How long does corporate tax registration take?
The FTA usually processes a complete application within 20 business days. It can take longer if the FTA asks for more information, so it's best to apply early.
Is corporate tax registration the same as VAT registration?
No. Corporate tax and VAT are separate registrations with separate obligations. Registering for one does not register you for the other.
What happens if I register for corporate tax late?
The FTA applies an AED 10,000 penalty. Many businesses can have this penalty waived by filing their first corporate tax return within 7 months of the end of their first tax period.