Free tool
UAE Corporate Tax Registration Deadline Checker
Find your FTA Corporate Tax registration deadline from your licence or incorporation date — and see your AED 10,000 late-registration penalty risk.
UAE Corporate Tax registration, explained
Deadlines by person type, penalties, and what to do if you're late.
When do I have to register for UAE Corporate Tax?
It depends on your person type. Resident companies that existed before 1 March 2024 had staggered deadlines based on their licence-issuance month (FTA Decision No. 3 of 2024). Companies incorporated on or after 1 March 2024 must register within 3 months of incorporation. Natural persons in business register by 31 March of the year after their turnover exceeds AED 1,000,000.
How is my registration deadline calculated for an existing company?
For resident juridical persons that existed before 1 March 2024, the FTA set the deadline by the month your trade licence was first issued — regardless of the year. For example, a January or February licence month maps to 31 May 2024, while a December licence month maps to 31 December 2024.
What is the penalty for late corporate tax registration?
Failing to register for Corporate Tax by your deadline carries an administrative penalty of AED 10,000 (Cabinet Decision No. 10 of 2024). The obligation to register does not go away — registering promptly limits further exposure.
I missed my deadline — what should I do now?
Register as soon as possible through the FTA's EmaraTax portal. The AED 10,000 penalty applies for late registration, but continuing to delay does not reduce it and can complicate your first filing. A specialist can register you and reconstruct your first tax period quickly.
Does a new company really have only 3 months to register?
Yes. Juridical persons that are incorporated, established, or recognised on or after 1 March 2024 must apply to register within 3 months of their date of incorporation or establishment.
Do free zone companies need to register?
Yes. A Qualifying Free Zone Person may benefit from a 0% rate on qualifying income, but it must still register for Corporate Tax and file a return. Registration is required regardless of the rate you ultimately pay.
Is this registration deadline checker official tax advice?
No. It estimates your deadline from your person type and licence/incorporation date using published FTA timelines. Your exact obligation depends on your facts and current FTA guidance — confirm with a qualified tax advisor or the FTA.