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VAT Voluntary Disclosure Service?

In simple terms : It’s a formal notification to the FTA (Form 211) that corrects an error or omission in a VAT return, refund claim, or assessment so you can fix liability and limit penalties.

Claim compliance certainty. Limit penalties. File Form 211 correctly.

KWS provides an end-to-end VAT voluntary disclosure service for businesses across Dubai and the UAE — from eligibility checks and Form 211 preparation to portal submission and post-submission follow-up.

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WHAT IS VAT VOLUNTARY DISCLOSURE?

The FTA VAT Voluntary Disclosure UAE is a formal mechanism that allows a taxable business to proactively correct errors or omissions in previously submitted tax records. This form, commonly known as VAT211, is provided by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).

The Taxpayer uses this formal process to officially notify the FTA of an error or mistake found in a previously filed:

  • Tax Return
  • Tax Assessment
  • Tax Refund application

Why file a voluntary disclosure?

Filing voluntarily demonstrates good faith, corrects under‑reported tax or incorrect refunds, and typically reduces enforcement exposure compared with errors discovered by the FTA later. Because when the FTA finds the error first the penalties are often significantly higher, early disclosure reduces financial and compliance risk.

Key thresholds and timing (quick facts)?

  • AED 10,000 threshold : If the differential amount exceeds AED 10,000, a voluntary disclosure is required.
  • 20 business days : If the differential exceeds the threshold, submit the disclosure within 20 business days of discovering the error.
  • Processing window : FTA resolution timelines vary by complexity; KWS tracks and follows up until closure.

Who should consider a voluntary disclosure?

  • Taxable persons who discover errors in past VAT returns or refund claims
  • Foreign companies with UAE-sourced VAT errors
  • Businesses that receive an incorrect assessment and want to proactively correct it Not sure if you’re eligible? Free eligibility scan.

What’s included in our Voluntary Disclosure service?

What We Do Why It Matters
Eligibility review and scoped liability calculation Ensures you disclose only what’s necessary
Drafting of Form 211 and supporting narrative (English) Structured to meet FTA expectation
Document checklist and file preparation Reduces chances of follow-up requests
Submission via the FTA e-Services portal Official filing channel for disclosures
Post-submission tracking and FTA follow-up Speeds resolution and clarifies penalties

Quick note on timing and Form 211?

Form 211 is the official route for voluntary corrections. If your corrected liability exceeds AED 10,000,you must filewithin 20 business days of discovering the error. Even for smaller differentials, act promptly to limit exposure. KWS will prioritise and prepare your case pack as soon as you instruct us.

Our 5-step voluntary disclosure process?

Step 1 :

Discovery assessment

We quantify the error, identify affected tax periods, and confirm whether Form 211 is required.

Step 2 :

Corrected computation

We calculate corrected VAT liability, interest, and an initial penalty estimate.

Step 3 :

Draft Form 211 and supporting narrative

We prepare the disclosure, a concise factual narrative, and the supporting evidence required by the FTA.

Step 4 :

Client review and sign-off

You review the case pack; we finalise the filing for submission.

Step 5 :

Portal submission and tracking

We submit via the FTA e-Services portal and track the case until closure, handling FTA queries on your behalf.

Documents typically required?

Item When required
Original VAT returns and revised computations Always
Sales and purchase invoices To support corrections
Bank statements and payment evidence For reconciliations
Contracts or agreements (if relevant) For specific transactions
Covering letter / factual narrative Explains cause and corrective steps

KWS validates computations and document completeness before filing to minimise rework.

Penalties, interest and likely outcomes?

A voluntary disclosure does not automatically remove penalties, but timely and complete disclosures are favourably considered and generally reduce enforcement action compared with issues identified by the FTA. Exact penalty treatment depends on facts, materiality, and FTA discretion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid?

  • Delaying disclosure after discovery
  • Submitting incomplete supporting evidence
  • Miscomputing corrected liability or interest
  • Failing to keep clear audit trails for corrected periods

KWS verifies calculations and document completeness to reduce the risk of follow-up queries.

Short case example (realistic, anonymised)?

A retail client discovered a reporting gap across three quarterly returns that increased VAT due by AED 28,000. KWS performed an eligibility check, prepared Form 211 and supporting reconciliations, submitted the disclosure, and negotiated a materially reduced penalty outcome compared with enforcement discovery.

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FAQs

What services does KWS offer?

KWS offers a comprehensive suite of services, including accounting, payroll processing, tax preparation, financial advisory, and global payroll solutions.

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What is a VAT voluntary disclosure in the UAE?

A formal correction filed to the FTA using Form 211 to notify and rectify an error in previous VAT filings.

When must I submit a voluntary disclosure?

If the differential amount exceeds AED 10,000, file within 20 business days of discovery. For lower differentials, disclose promptly and seek guidance.

What happens if I miss the 20-business-day window ?

Missing the window increases the risk that the FTA will treat the matter as non-voluntary, which can lead to higher penalties and enforcement action. KWS can advise on remedial steps and represent you in communications with the FTA.

Can foreign companies submit voluntary disclosures ?

Yes — foreign entities with UAE VAT obligations should file disclosures when they identify errors.

How long does the FTA take to process a disclosure ?

Processing time varies with complexity and evidence provided. KWS tracks the case and follows up until resolution.

Pricing

Effortlessly handle VAT Voluntary Disclosure with KWS’s expert services.

VAT Voluntary Disclosure in UAE

Free eligibility scan before submission
No hidden fees

Starts From

1999 AED 699 AED

Ready to correct an error and limit exposure?

Get a fast eligibility check and a clear, costed path to file Form 211.