Short answer
A licence lets the company exist; it does not yet let it hire, pay people or bank. The next stages are typically the , residency, Emirates ID, labour registrations where applicable, a bank account, tax registrations, accounting, payroll and a renewal calendar.
Post-licence checklist
- 01
Establishment card / immigration file
Registers the company with immigration so it can sponsor residents.
- 02
Investor or partner residency
Shareholders apply for residency sponsored by the company, where eligible.
- 03
Medical fitness and Emirates ID
Part of completing each residence visa.
- 04
Labour / MOHRE registration
Mainland employers register with MOHRE; free zones run their own employment systems.
- 05
Employee visas
Work permits or free zone employment approvals, then residency for each employee.
- 06
Corporate bank account
Apply with a complete, consistent file.
- 07
Corporate Tax registration
Most companies must register with the FTA within the applicable deadline.
- 08
VAT where applicable
Register when you meet the threshold, or voluntarily if eligible.
- 09
Accounting and records
Keep proper books and supporting documents from day one.
- 10
WPS payroll where applicable
Pay salaries through an approved channel.
- 11
UBO and company records
Maintain the register of beneficial owners and keep it updated.
- 12
Renewal calendar
Track licence, tenancy, , visas and Emirates IDs.
Then: marketing and operations
With the foundations in place, focus shifts to brand, website, sales processes and operational systems. This is where IBS project management and marketing support usually begins.
Key takeaways
- The licence starts the operational setup rather than finishing it.
- Keep one renewal calendar for every document.
- Register for tax early to avoid penalties.
Related guides
Related glossary terms
Frequently asked questions
What is the first thing to do after the licence?
Usually the establishment card, because residency and hiring depend on it.
Last reviewed: 25 September 2026
General educational content — not legal or tax advice. IBS is not affiliated with any government entity. Always confirm current requirements with the official authority.