Dubai Tax Residency Certificate: Who Needs It, How to Get It & Documents Required
Dubai and the wider UAE are internationally renowned for their business-friendly tax policies. With no personal income tax and corporate tax exemptions for many sectors, the UAE has become a prime destination for investors, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and multinational companies.
But to legally benefit from tax treaties or to avoid double taxation in another country, you may need a crucial document: the Tax Residency Certificate (TRC), also known as the Tax Domicile Certificate.
In this complete guide, we’ll explain:
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Who should apply for a TRC in Dubai
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How to apply — step by step
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What documents are required
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Costs, timelines, and expert help
What is a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) in the UAE?
The Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) is an official document issued by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in the UAE. It confirms that you — as an individual or a company — are a tax resident in the UAE.
This certificate allows you to:
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Claim benefits under Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs)
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Prove tax residency to foreign tax authorities
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Avoid paying tax twice on the same income in two different countries
Who Needs a Tax Residency Certificate in Dubai?
You may need a TRC in the UAE if you fall under any of the following categories:
For Individuals:
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UAE residents with a valid residence visa and Emirates ID
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Freelancers and remote workers who earn income from abroad
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Expats seeking to avoid double taxation in their home country
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Investors needing to prove UAE tax residency for overseas transactions
For Companies:
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UAE mainland or free zone businesses
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Firms conducting international business, consulting, or IP licensing
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Corporates with foreign shareholders needing to benefit from DTAAs
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Companies with active operations in the UAE for at least 1 year
Note: Offshore companies without a physical presence or license in the UAE are not eligible for TRC.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Get a Tax Residency Certificate in Dubai
Here’s a simplified guide to help you apply for your TRC easily and correctly:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
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Individuals: Must have stayed in the UAE for at least 183 days in the last 12 months
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Companies: Must be actively operating for 12+ months with a valid trade license
Step 2: Register on the FTA Portal
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Go to the official Federal Tax Authority portal
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Create a user account (individual or business)
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Verify email and complete your profile
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
(Full list shared below for individuals and companies)
Step 4: Apply Online
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Fill in the application on the FTA portal
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Upload all required documents
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Pay the application fee online via card
Step 5: Wait for Approval
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Review time: 4 to 7 working days
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The TRC is issued digitally once approved
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Valid for 1 year from the date of issue
Documents Required for UAE Tax Residency Certificate
For Individuals:
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Passport copy
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UAE residence visa copy
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Emirates ID copy
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Tenancy contract or property title deed in UAE
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Bank statements for the last 6 months (UAE bank)
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Salary certificate (if employed)
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Entry and exit report from GDRFA (immigration authority)
For Companies:
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Valid trade license (mainland or free zone)
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Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Articles of Association
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Tenancy contract (Ejari or lease agreement)
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Bank statements for the last 6 months
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Audited financial accounts (or certified financials)
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UAE Establishment Card
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Shareholder/partner list with passport copies
Ensure all documents are in PDF format and translated into Arabic if required.
TRC Application Fees in UAE
| Type | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Individuals | AED 500 |
| Companies | AED 1,750 |
Processing Time
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Average time: 4 to 7 business days
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Incomplete documents or errors may cause delays
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Certificate is valid for 12 months
How Leaf Associates Can Help You Get a TRC Easily
Applying for a Tax Residency Certificate may seem easy, but incomplete documents or small errors can lead to delays or rejections.
That’s where Leaf Associates steps in.
Our team of expert tax consultants provides:
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Eligibility verification for individuals & companies
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Document collection & compliance review
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Online application support via FTA
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Ongoing guidance and tracking of approval
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100% confidentiality and timely delivery
Whether you’re a freelancer, corporate entity, or investor — we simplify the TRC process so you can stay focused on growing your business.
Need help applying for your TRC in Dubai? Contact Leaf Associates now for expert assistance.
FAQs – Dubai Tax Residency Certificate
1. What is a Tax Residency Certificate in the UAE?
A Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) is an official document issued by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) that confirms an individual or a company is a tax resident of the UAE. It allows the holder to claim benefits under Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) signed between the UAE and other countries.
2. Who is eligible to apply for a Tax Residency Certificate in Dubai?
To be eligible:
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Individuals must have lived in the UAE for at least 183 days in the past 12 months and hold a valid residence visa and Emirates ID.
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Companies must be UAE-licensed (mainland or free zone), operating for at least one year, and have a valid trade license and tenancy contract.
3. How long does it take to get a TRC in Dubai?
Once all documents are submitted correctly, the TRC is typically processed and issued by the Federal Tax Authority within 4 to 7 working days.
4. What are the main documents required to apply for a TRC in UAE?
Commonly required documents include:
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For individuals: Passport, visa, Emirates ID, tenancy contract, bank statements, and entry-exit report.
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For companies: Trade license, MOA, tenancy contract, audited financials, and bank statements.
5. How long is a Tax Residency Certificate valid in the UAE?
A UAE Tax Residency Certificate is valid for 1 year from the date of issuance. After expiration, a new application must be submitted with updated documents.
6. Can offshore companies apply for a UAE Tax Residency Certificate?
No, offshore companies (those without a UAE physical presence or license) are not eligible for a TRC. Only entities registered and operating within the UAE mainland or free zones can apply.
The Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) is more than just a tax formality. It’s a powerful document that helps avoid double taxation, supports global compliance, and opens up international benefits for UAE-based residents and businesses.
Getting it right the first time is crucial — and that’s why working with experts like Leaf Associates can save you time, stress, and legal risk.
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