WhatsApp quoteGoldenKey handles VAT Registration for the companies we form and for businesses that come to us later, so the process is routine for our tax team. VAT Registration is registering with the Federal Tax Authority for 5% VAT, and it applies to businesses with taxable supplies and imports above AED 375,000 in the last 12 months (mandatory) or AED 187,500 (voluntary). Importantly, payments between Portugal and the UAE are routine: the dirham is pegged to the dollar, euro (EUR) transfers settle quickly and UAE banks are familiar with Portuguese business profiles. Portuguese nationals are a smaller community active in engineering, hospitality and technology, so the VAT Registration authority, the banks and the immigration officers see Portuguese applications every day and process them without hesitation.
Why VAT Registration
Keeping records for five years, issuing compliant invoices and filing on time are the ongoing obligations that follow VAT Registration. GoldenKey prepares the EmaraTax submission for VAT Registration, uploads the documents and follows up with the FTA until the certificate is issued. Many Portuguese founders run VAT Registration companies alongside an existing business in Portugal, using the UAE entity for international invoicing and regional sales.
Documents required
Here is what you will need for vat registration for Portuguese-owned companies; GoldenKey checks every item before submission.
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
Pricing
As a rule, pricing for vat registration for Portuguese-owned companies depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated. Use the table below to compare packages for vat registration for Portuguese-owned companies; we will confirm the exact total for your case in a written quotation.
| GoldenKey service fee | AED 2,500 |
|---|
Federal Tax Authority registration for businesses with taxable supplies above AED 375,000 / year
Request this servicePrices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-07.
Why the UAE
As a rule, since 2021, most mainland activities have allowed 100% foreign ownership, and free zones have always offered it, so vat registration for Portuguese-owned companies no longer requires a local partner. The UAE's reputation as a trading hub means international clients and suppliers already trust a UAE licence, which shortens sales cycles for vat registration for Portuguese-owned companies.
Why GoldenKey
GoldenKey's consultants have handled vat registration for Portuguese-owned companies for traders, consultants, tech business owners and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves quickly. We speak the languages our customers speak, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu and Malayalam, and we can arrange Russian, French and Mandarin support for vat registration for Portuguese-owned companies. To be clear, after your VAT Registration licence is granted, the same team handles renewals, visa additions, amendments and tax registrations, so you never have to explain your business twice.
From day one, message GoldenKey now and we will prepare a personalised quotation for vat registration for Portuguese-owned companies, valid for 30 days and confirmed in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Can GoldenKey act as my tax agent?
Yes. GoldenKey can prepare and submit filings on your behalf and handle FTA correspondence, so you have one point of contact for licence, visa and tax matters.
Does VAT Registration apply to a new company with no revenue yet?
A new company with no revenue does not need mandatory VAT registration yet, but can register voluntarily once expected taxable supplies or expenses exceed AED 187,500 — useful for reclaiming input VAT on setup costs.
Is VAT Registration mandatory for a free zone company?
VAT registration is mandatory for any UAE company, free zone or mainland, once taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 in 12 months. Goods traded inside designated zones have special rules, but services supplied by free zone companies are generally taxable.
Can a Portuguese citizen own 100% of a company in VAT Registration?
Yes — Portuguese nationals can own the full share capital of a VAT Registration company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
Can my family from Portugal join me?
As a rule, once your investor visa is granted you can sponsor your spouse and children, and GoldenKey processes their visas alongside yours.
