How to Obtain a Tax Residency Certificate in UAE

Since global firms are expanding and more people are transacting business internationally, tax residency has become a determining aspect in international financial planning. Assuming that you live or have a business in the UAE, a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) provided by the UAE government will assist you in avoiding the impact of the double taxation and determining your taxation in the global context.

Dubai, specifically, has become a favourite among businesspeople, digital nomads, consultants and investors that want an efficient tax regime coupled with international recognition.

This guide defines the meaning of Tax Residency Certificate, application requirements, requirements, eligibility and the steps and procedures involved in obtaining a TRC in Dubai.

What Is a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC)?

A Tax Residency Certificate is an official document issued by the UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) confirming that an individual or company is considered a tax resident of the UAE for a specific financial year.

The TRC is primarily used to:

Benefit under the agreement of Double Taxation Avoidance (DTAA)
The same income should not be subject to taxation twice.
Indicate foreign tax residency to the tax authorities.
Favor foreign banking, regulations and cross-border movements.

The TRC is an effective instrument in international tax planning since the UAE has signed 100+ tax treaties in different countries globally.

Who Can Apply for a UAE Tax Residency Certificate?

The UAE issues TRCs to both individuals and legal entities.

Individuals

You can apply as an individual if you:

Have an authentic UAE residence visa.
Have been a permanent resident of the UAE (usually 183 days or longer)
Is able to prove financial and residential connections to the UAE.

It is particularly handy among freelance workers, consultants, people with high net income, and international workers.

Companies

Companies can apply if they:

Lawfully registered in the UAE (mainland or free zone)
At least 12 months of operational experience.
Keep good accounting and banking records in the UAE.

Eligibility Criteria Explained

For Individuals

To be eligible to receive a TRC, people have to, as a rule, show:

Physical presence in the UAE (records on entry/exit of the passport)
Legal Emirates ID and residence visa.
Residential address in Dubai or any other emirate.
UAE financial usage (bank statements, pay certificate, or income certificate)

For Companies

A company must show:

A valid UAE trade license
Audited financial statements
Active UAE bank account
Proof of management and control from the UAE

The certificate is issued for a specific 12-month tax period, not for future dates.

Documents Required for TRC Application

Individual Documents

Passport copy
UAE residence visa
Emirates ID
Entry and exit report
Tenancy contract or Ejari
6 months of UAE bank statements
Salary certificate or proof of income

Company Documents

Trade license
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Audited financial statements
UAE bank statements
Board resolution or authorization letter

All documents must match the same financial period for which the TRC is requested.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a TRC in Dubai

Step 1: Register on EmaraTax

Step 2: Start a TRC Application

Select Tax Residency Certificate under FTA services and choose whether the application is for an individual or a company.

Step 3: Fill in Details

Provide personal or company information, select the tax year, and mention the country where the TRC will be submitted.

Step 4: Upload Documents

Upload all required documents clearly and accurately. Missing or inconsistent documents can delay approval.

Step 5: Pay Government Fees

The fee structure typically includes:

Application fee
Certificate issuance fee
Optional courier fee for printed copies

Step 6: Review & Approval

The FTA usually processes applications within 5–7 working days, subject to verification.

Step 7: Download the Certificate

Once approved, the TRC can be downloaded digitally. A hard copy can be couriered if requested.

Validity and Renewal

A TRC is only valid for one financial year.
Every tax year needs a new application.
It is not possible to issue certificates in the future.

To be on the safe side, planning will make international tax filings continue.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying without meeting minimum residency days
Submitting mismatched financial periods
Incomplete bank statements or lease documents
Assuming a tourist visa qualifies (it does not)

Professional review significantly reduces rejection risks.

Why Obtain a TRC in Dubai?

Dubai’s TRC offers:

Deflection of double taxation.
Increased world tax credibility.
High compliance provisions in terms of international income.
Entrepreneurial and investor strategic advantage.

Coupled with the business friendly environment in UAE, it is currently among the most effective solutions in tax residency in the world.

Need Help with Your Tax Residency Certificate?

Obtaining a TRC involves precise documentation and compliance. E-startup simplifies the entire process from eligibility checks to successful issuance ensuring a fast, hassle-free experience.

Apply for your Tax Residency Certificate in Dubai with E-startup today and secure your global tax position with confidence.