The New Residence VAT Refund Scheme is a Special Refund Scheme available in UAE VAT Law. This scheme is applicable only to UAE Nationals who construct a Residential Building for his/her or for his/her family. This is applicable when the person owns or acquires land in UAE on which he builds or commissions the construction of his own residence. Under this scheme, such a person will be entitled to claim a refund of the tax paid on the expenses of constructing the residence. Conditions to be eligible:
- Refund request should be submitted by a Natural Person.
- He/she must be UAE National.
- Tax Refund is in respect to the Expenditure incurred for constructing Residential Building
Time Limit: VAT Refund claim under this scheme is required to be lodged within 6 months from the date of completion of the newly built residence. A newly built residence is considered as completed on:
- the date the residence becomes occupied (or)
- the date when it is certified as completed by a competent authority in UAE,
Whichever is earlier. Eligible Expense:
- Services provided by contractors, including services of builders, architects, engineers, and other similar services necessary for the successful construction of the residence.
- Building materials, being goods of a type normally incorporated by builders in a residential building or its site. This does not include furniture or electrical appliances.
Change of Use: When a person who has claimed refund of VAT under this scheme, later uses the property for commercial use, he/she will be required to repay the tax that was refunded earlier. While applying for refund one has to declare type of fund being used for the construction either personal or Housing Program Fund or both. Funder certificate needs to be provided if the construction is backed by Housing Program Fund. Besides this bank account confirmation letter/certificate should be submitted for the confirmation and transfer of fund into the account. The new residence VAT refund scheme is an assistive scheme for UAE nationals who newly construct their residence in UAE. They can reduce the expenditure incurred on account of VAT paid on the expenses of constructing the new residence. It is also a measure by the UAE Government to assist UAE nationals to construct residences. UAE nationals can note the conditions of this scheme and use it for their benefit.
To learn more about New Residence VAT Refund Scheme for UAE Nationals, book a free consultation with one of the Flyingcolour team advisors.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is based on our understanding of current tax laws and regulations. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice, consultation, or representation. The author and publisher are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information contained in this blog.