VAT De-Registration Checker
Enter your taxable supplies and registration type to see whether deregistration is mandatory, optional, or not yet available.
Based on Article 21 of Federal Decree-Law No. 8 of 2017 and the FTA's VAT Deregistration service rules. Deregistration also requires all outstanding VAT returns filed and tax settled first. This is a screening aid, not tax advice — confirm your specific position with the FTA or a tax advisor.
UAE VAT deregistration rules at a glance
| Situation | Deregistration status |
|---|---|
| Stopped making taxable supplies entirely | Mandatory — apply within 20 business days |
| Supplies below AED 187,500 for 12 months, not expected to rise in 30 days | Mandatory — apply within 20 business days |
| Supplies between AED 187,500 and AED 375,000 | Optional |
| Voluntarily registered less than 12 months ago | Not yet available, regardless of turnover |
| Late deregistration | AED 1,000/month penalty, up to AED 10,000 |
Checking whether you need to register in the first place instead? Use the VAT Registration Checker.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is VAT deregistration mandatory in the UAE?
In two situations: your business has completely stopped making taxable supplies, or your taxable supplies over the trailing 12 months have fallen below AED 187,500 and you don't expect to exceed that in the next 30 days. You must apply within 20 business days of the trigger.
Can I deregister voluntarily if my turnover just dropped a bit?
Yes — if your taxable supplies are below the AED 375,000 mandatory threshold but still above AED 187,500, deregistration is optional rather than required. You can choose to stay registered.
I registered voluntarily a few months ago — can I deregister now?
Generally no. A business that registered voluntarily typically can't apply to deregister within the first 12 months of that registration, even if turnover has since dropped below the threshold.
What happens if I miss the deregistration deadline?
A penalty of AED 1,000 applies, repeated on the same date each month you remain late, up to a maximum of AED 10,000.
What do I need to do before the FTA approves deregistration?
File all outstanding VAT returns, settle any outstanding tax liability, and account for VAT on any business assets you're still holding at the point of deregistration (a "deemed supply").
Is this checker professional tax advice?
No. It applies the published FTA thresholds to the figures you enter as a screening aid. Your specific circumstances — timing, asset holdings, or group structure — can change the outcome, so confirm with the FTA or a tax advisor before acting.
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