TAX RESIDENCY CERTIFICATE
(TRC) SERVICES IN DUBAI,
ABU DHABI & THE UAE
Our Tax Residency Certificate services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the UAE is part of our tax consultancy services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
If you are an individual or a business operating in the UAE, obtaining a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) is key to gaining the benefits of the UAE’s growing network of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) with over 140 countries.
At Creation Business Consultants we simplify the process of securing your TRC, ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria and have the right documentation in place without any delays or complications.
WHAT IS A TAX RESIDENCY CERTIFICATE?
A Tax Residency Certificate, also referred to as a Tax Domicile Certificate, is an official document issued by the UAE Ministry of Finance (MoF). The TRC confirms your official tax residency status in the UAE for a specific financial year, enabling you to benefit from the UAE’s double tax treaties.
BENEFITS OF A TAX RESIDENCY CERTIFICATE
A TRC helps both individuals and businesses:
- Avoid double taxation on income, dividends, royalties, and capital gains
- Access reduced or zero withholding tax rates under UAE’s tax treaties
- Prove UAE tax residency to foreign authorities and banks
- Support international tax planning and cross-border business operations
- Enhance your tax compliance and transparency
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR A TAX RESIDENCY CERTIFICATE?
The first stage in applying for a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) is to determine whether you meet the specific eligibility criteria based on your legal status.
CASE STUDY 1: “I DIDN’T WANT TO BE TAXED TWICE” – HOW JAMES, A UK CONSULTANT IN DUBAI, SECURED HIS TAX RESIDENCY
The Situation:
When James, a UK national, moved to Dubai in 2022 to launch his freelance consulting business, he was excited for a fresh start. Business picked up quickly with UAE-based clients, and life seemed to be on the right track—until the first UK tax deadline approached.
“Even though I’d been living and working full-time in the UAE, I started to panic. Would HMRC try to tax me on my global income? I didn’t know where to start.”
The Challenge:
Like many professionals relocating to the UAE, James faced three key hurdles:
- Proving tax residency in the UAE to HMRC
- Navigating government portals and unclear documentation requirements
- Dealing with fast-approaching deadlines in both countries
How Creation Helped:
James reached out to Creation Business Consultants after hearing about our experience helping individuals with international tax obligations. Our team immediately stepped in to manage the process from start to finish.
→ We confirmed that James met the UAE’s 183-day residency rule.
→ We supported him in compiling all the right documents—residency proof, lease, bank records, Emirates ID, and income evidence.
→ We handled the TRC application through the Ministry of Finance on his behalf.
→ We provided tailored documentation and guidance for his UK tax filing, referencing the UAE–UK Double Tax Treaty.
The Outcome:
James received his UAE Tax Residency Certificate in time and successfully submitted it to HMRC. His income was no longer subject to UK tax—saving him significant money, time, and stress.
“Creation made the process so smooth. They knew exactly what was needed and took care of everything. I was able to focus on my clients without worrying about tax penalties.”
Thinking About Tax Residency in the UAE?
If you’ve relocated to the UAE and want to protect your global income from double taxation, a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) is essential.
🎯 We can help you get it done—accurately and on time.
CASE STUDY 2: “WE NEEDED TAX RELIEF ON DIVIDENDS” – HOW A FRENCH HOLDING COMPANY SECURED A UAE TRC FOR ITS SUBSIDIARY
Background
A French-registered Limited Liability Company (LLC) held a 100% stake in a UAE mainland company. Each year, the UAE subsidiary distributed dividends back to the parent company in France.
The French entity aimed to reduce its withholding tax obligations using the UAE–France Double Tax Treaty—but to do so, it needed one critical document: a UAE Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) for the subsidiary.
Challenges
→ Navigating the treaty requirements between France and the UAE
→ Uncertainty over how to qualify the UAE company for a TRC
→ Difficulty compiling the correct financials and supporting documents
→ Lack of clarity around ongoing compliance obligations
Our Solution – Creation Business Consultants
→ Our team provided end-to-end TRC support for the UAE subsidiary and strategic tax structuring guidance for the parent company.
→ Confirmed TRC eligibility based on the UAE entity’s office lease, business activities, and financial standing
→ Coordinated with auditors to prepare and finalize audited financial statements
→ Managed the full TRC application process through the UAE Ministry of Finance
→ Advised on tax structuring to support long-term treaty benefit claims and transparency standards
The Outcome
The UAE subsidiary successfully obtained its Tax Residency Certificate, allowing the French parent company to claim reduced withholding tax rates on dividend payments under the UAE–France tax treaty.
This not only resulted in direct tax savings but also strengthened the group’s compliance with international tax transparency requirements.
“Creation’s team made an otherwise complex cross-border compliance process straightforward and efficient. Their guidance was invaluable.”
🌍 Supporting International Companies with Cross-Border Tax Compliance
At Creation Business Consultants, we specialise in helping businesses meet the TRC criteria and apply successfully—whether for tax treaty benefits, regulatory compliance, or bank and tax authority requirements.
Our TRC Services Include:
- Eligibility assessment for individuals and companies
- Step-by-step guidance on required documentation
- Application filing via the UAE Ministry of Finance
- Liaison with UAE authorities
- Delivery of your TRC
- Advisory on using your certificate internationally
TAX RESIDENCY CERTIFICATE FAQs
It typically takes circa 20 working days, depending on the completeness of your documents and Ministry of Finance (MOF) processing time.
Yes, if a freelancer or remote worker meets the residency requirement and can show UAE-sourced income and accommodation they will be able to apply for a TRC.
No, TRCs are issued per financial year and must be renewed annually. If you require an assessment of your tax status reach out to the team on [email protected] for a free initial consultation.
A tax residency certificate and a certificate of residence are the same document. TRC and Tax Domicile Certificate are commonly used interchangeably.
A company that has no audited financials cannot apply for a TRC. The company’s audited financial statements are a mandatory requirement for corporate TRC applications.
Yes, Free Zone companies can apply for a tax residency certificate, provided they have a valid trade / company / business license, physical office, and audited company financials. Note: flexi-desk / co-working / hot desk arrangements may not be accepted in all treaty jurisdictions.
No, branches of foreign companies are not eligible for a UAE Tax Residency Certificate. A branch of a foreign company is considered as an extension of the parent company and does not constitute separate legal entities in the UAE.
Yes. A TRC can be submitted to your home country’s tax authority to claim treaty benefits or tax relief, but acceptance depends on the double tax treaty terms between the UAE and your country, as well as your home country’s requirements.
