WhatsApp quoteGetting Import / Export Code right at the start avoids penalties that are easy to trigger and tedious to appeal. Import / Export Code is a customs client code that lets your company clear goods through UAE ports and airports, and it applies to any company that physically imports or exports goods, whether mainland or free zone. Japanese nationals are a community of several thousand, mainly in trading houses, automotive, energy and engineering, so the Import / Export Code authority, the banks and the immigration officers see Japanese applications every day and process them without hesitation. Japan is one of the UAE's largest energy customers and a major source of vehicles and machinery, which gives Japanese entrepreneurs a ready market and supply chain the moment their Import / Export Code licence is issued.
Why Import / Export Code
The code is renewed annually with the licence and is required before your first shipment can be cleared. The steps for Import / Export Code are: apply on the Dubai Trade or relevant customs portal, upload licence and authorised signatory documents, pay the registration fee and then link the code to your freight forwarder. Japanese applicants benefit from the fact that Import / Export Code already has many Japanese shareholders on its register, so its officers recognise Japan documents and name formats instantly.
Documents required
For import / export code for Japanese-owned companies the authority asks for the following documents, and we tell you exactly how each must be formatted.
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
Pricing
On the ground, use the table below to compare packages for import / export code for Japanese-owned companies; we will confirm the exact total for your case in a written quotation. All prices for import / export code for Japanese-owned companies are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing before you pay.
| GoldenKey service fee | AED 2,000 |
|---|
Dubai Customs or respective emirate customs code for trade activity
Request this servicePrices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-06.
Why the UAE
Crucially, the UAE's reputation as a trading hub means international customers and suppliers already trust a UAE licence, which shortens sales cycles for import / export code for Japanese-owned companies. Day to day, residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes import / export code for Japanese-owned companies a route to relocation as well as a business decision.
Why GoldenKey
GoldenKey's consultants have handled import / export code for Japanese-owned companies for traders, consultants, tech company owners and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves quickly. Put simply, our office is a short drive from the Ajman Free Zone, Ajman DED and the immigration centre, so physical submissions for import / export code for Japanese-owned companies happen the same day they are ready. Our quotations for import / export code for Japanese-owned companies list every government fee and our service fee on one page, in writing, before you pay anything.
Tell us about your plans for import / export code for Japanese-owned companies and GoldenKey will come back to you shortly with a clear price, a document checklist and a realistic timeline.
Frequently asked questions
Does Import / Export Code apply to a new company with no revenue yet?
The customs code is needed before the first shipment, so new traders apply as soon as the licence is issued.
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
On the ground, the FTA typically responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
What happens if I miss the Import / Export Code deadline?
On the ground, late registration attracts a fixed penalty, and late filings add further penalties. If you are already late, GoldenKey can register you and advise on penalty reconsideration where grounds exist.
Do Japanese nationals need a UAE visa before applying for Import / Export Code?
No, it does not. You can apply for the licence from Japan with scanned documents, and the investor residence visa is handled afterwards.
Can a Japanese citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Absolutely. Japanese nationals can own the full share capital of a Import / Export Code company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
