The Commercial Activities Certificate, issued by the FTA, is an important document for international VAT administration. It allows holders to recoup advance VAT paid on eligible overseas purchases, which benefits individuals and companies.

This document, also known as the Certificate of Status of Business or Business Person, is useful for UAE-based companies involved in international business. It streamlines the VAT refund procedure, regardless of current Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements, allowing firms to optimise cash flow and maintain financial efficiency in cross-border operations.

The Commercial Activities Certificate streamlines the VAT recovery process. Previously supplied by the Ministry of Finance, this move takes advantage of the FTA’s extensive database of VAT-registered firms. This offers a more seamless and efficient experience for businesses. 

The eligibility for receiving the certificate is straightforward. As a VAT-registered firm in the UAE, you are automatically eligible, independent of any existing Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) with other countries.