Fama Accounting Services, Office 2294, Building 574 Road 31 Block 611 Al Hamriya, Bahrain
Filing your VAT returns correctly and on time is not just a formality—it’s a legal requirement in Bahrain. With evolving VAT laws, quarterly submissions, and complex transaction categories, even small mistakes can lead to NBR penalties, audits, or delayed refunds.
At Famabh, our VAT return filing services in Bahrain help businesses stay fully compliant with the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR). Whether you’re filing monthly or quarterly, we prepare your VAT return based on verified data, match inputs and outputs, validate supporting documents, and submit everything on your behalf—accurately and on time.
Whether you’re a startup submitting your first VAT return or an established business needing a second pair of eyes, our team ensures that your returns are error-free, audit-proof, and aligned with Bahrain’s VAT law—so you never miss a deadline or overpay on tax.
VAT return filing is a critical compliance task that must be completed every quarter or month, depending on your NBR schedule. Delays or errors can lead to:
Fines up to BHD 10,000
Input VAT disallowance
Refund rejections
Risk of NBR investigation or audit
Reputational damage
Our goal is to make VAT returns worry-free—so you can focus on growing your business while we manage your tax obligations.
✔ Complete VAT return preparation and submission
✔ Input/output VAT reconciliation
✔ Review of tax invoices and expenses
✔ Matching of NBR categories with transactions
✔ Filing via NBR’s online portal
✔ Guidance on VAT payment to government
✔ Submission acknowledgment and proof
✔ NBR correspondence handling (if needed)
✔ Refund tracking or query resolution
We ensure your records and VAT trail are clear, consistent, and ready for review at any time.
We file VAT returns for:
Startups & new VAT registrants
SMEs and family businesses
Multi-branch and group companies
Clinics, salons, cafes, logistics firms
Retailers, restaurants, and eCommerce brands
Professionals & consultants (SPCs / W.L.L.)
Whether your business is small or scaling, our VAT return filing service adapts to your workflow.
Before we submit your return, we double-check:
Correct VAT classification (standard, zero-rated, exempt)
Reverse charge and imports
Expense eligibility for input VAT
Missing or invalid tax invoice issues
Currency exchange differences
Partial exemptions or adjustments (if applicable)
We don’t just file—we validate, ensuring your filing is accurate and defensible.
Initial Consultation
We understand your business activity and VAT return schedule.
Data Collection
You share your sales, purchases, expenses, and invoices (we guide the format).
VAT Review & Reconciliation
We review every line, flag errors, and reconcile with previous filings.
Return Preparation & Filing
We complete the NBR VAT return form and submit it through the portal.
Acknowledgment & Payment
You receive a submission confirmation and VAT payable details.
Ongoing Support (Optional)
We keep you updated on return status, payment deadlines, and refund progress.
Plan | Price (BHD/Month) | Features |
---|---|---|
Basic Package | BHD 20 | VAT registration & filing support, basic compliance checks, ideal for startups |
Standard Package | BHD 50 | All Basic features + detailed VAT reporting + expert advisory support |
Premium Package | BHD 100 | All Standard features + VAT audit support + strategic tax optimization |
✔ Monthly billing for ongoing support
✔ One-time VAT registration assistance available separately
✔ Flexible upgrades or downgrades anytime
✔ Discounts available for group or multi-branch registrations
✅ 100% NBR-compliant returns
✅ Save time, reduce stress, and eliminate VAT errors
✅ Bilingual experts in Bahraini VAT law
✅ Over 300+ successful filings across industries
✅ Audit-prepared supporting documents with every return
✅ Responsive team with ongoing advisory available
DIY Filing | With Our Experts |
---|---|
Manual effort, risk of missed entries | Fully automated review & guided reconciliation |
Limited knowledge of VAT laws | Hands-on compliance expertise |
VAT rejections & penalty risk | Clean, on-time, accurate filing |
Unclear how to classify expenses | Every expense vetted and matched to category |
No audit trail | Exportable audit-ready records included |
Minimize risks and maximize growth with our comprehensive accounting solutions in Bahrain.
Below is an overview of our general pricing packages for our VAT services in Barain. Costs vary depending on factors such as the services we offer.
Essential VAT compliance services for startups and small businesses, including filing and registration.
Enhanced VAT support with filing, reporting, and expert advisory services.
Comprehensive VAT services for larger enterprises, including audit support and strategic tax optimization.
Read some reviews and success stories from our loyal customers who achieved their goals and how our expert solutions have made a lasting impact on their growth, compliance, and financial clarity. Your success is our greatest achievement!
Client
I am so happy to have chosen this company! Right from the start it was a very easy decision, I knew I am in the right hands. They contacted me with every update they had and always kept me up to date with all the information and steps that we will proceed next.
Client
Highly recommend for anyone looking to establish a company in Bahrain! Waqas Akram and his team made the entire process smooth and stress-free. They were incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and handled every detail with professionalism.
Client
The team was highly professional, efficient, and knowledgeable. They ensured that all paperwork and procedures were handled smoothly, saving us both time and effort. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking out there.
Client
Abdullah and the team have been great in assisting me with related tasks. In challenging timeframes they've supported me to ensure our company operations can start in Bahrain without any issues. Thank you. I will recommed their services.
Client
I was extremely impressed with their services. Their expertise made everything smooth and hassle-free. I highly recommend Setup in Bahrain for anyone looking for their business here. Their professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction are top-notch.
With years of experience and a highly qualified team, we bring unmatched expertise and in-depth knowledge of Bahrain’s financial landscape to every service we provide.
Every VAT-registered business in Bahrain must submit periodic VAT returns based on a filing cycle assigned by the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR)—either quarterly or monthly. Most SMEs are required to file VAT returns every quarter, while larger businesses with higher turnover may be placed on a monthly schedule.
Missing deadlines, even unintentionally, can result in penalties starting from BHD 500, increasing with each infraction. Our team monitors your filing calendar, sends proactive reminders, and manages the filing process to ensure 100% compliance with the NBR schedule.
The NBR can conduct random or risk-based VAT audits. If your past filings have inconsistencies, missing documents, or mismatched declarations, you may face a formal tax audit. We ensure your VAT returns are filed with supporting documentation, reconciled against your ledger, and aligned with Bahrain’s VAT Law—so your business is always audit-ready.
Every return we file includes:
Transaction summary
Input/output VAT mapping
Validated tax invoices
Import/export documentation (if applicable)
Manual and system-generated reconciliation
Our goal is not just to submit returns, but to safeguard your business from tax liabilities.
Most errors in VAT returns are avoidable. These include:
Claiming VAT on non-recoverable expenses
Forgetting to reverse charge imported services
Submitting returns without proper invoice support
Misclassifying exempt, zero-rated, and standard-rated supplies
We review every item before submission, minimizing errors and improving your compliance score with the NBR.
If your input VAT (on purchases and expenses) exceeds your output VAT (on sales), you may be eligible for a VAT refund. Many businesses struggle to claim refunds due to poor documentation or incorrectly filed returns.
We handle your refund claim by:
Matching and validating all input VAT
Filing refund requests through the NBR portal
Responding to follow-up queries
Tracking refund status
Clients using our refund service typically see successful refund approvals within 30–60 days, depending on NBR response time and documentation.
If your business imports goods or services into Bahrain, reverse charge mechanisms may apply. This means you must self-account for VAT on certain transactions, especially from international suppliers.
We ensure accurate reporting of:
Imported goods via Customs
Reverse-charged international services
Inter-company transactions with foreign branches
Services supplied from non-resident vendors
These often-overlooked entries can trigger NBR penalties if omitted or misclassified. Our team ensures you’re reporting these correctly and on time.
The NBR requires you to maintain your VAT records for at least 5 years. That includes:
Tax invoices (sales & purchases)
Credit notes
Customs declarations
Proof of export
Contracts and quotations
Bank statements (to trace payments)
We help organize your documents in digital folders, cloud drives, or accounting software—so you’re always ready for inspection, refund claims, or audits.
Different business models require different VAT treatment. Our team customizes your VAT return review based on:
Business Type | VAT Focus Areas |
---|---|
Retail & F&B | POS mapping, dine-in vs delivery, discounts |
Clinics & Healthcare | Mixed supplies, insurance claims, exemptions |
Contractors | Advance payments, milestone billing, imports |
eCommerce | B2C vs B2B invoices, global services, refunds |
Consultants | Reverse charge compliance, freelancer VAT |
Whether you sell goods, services, or digital products—we tailor your return to reflect the specifics of your operations.
We work with clients using:
Zoho Books (Bahrain Edition)
Tally ERP 9 / Prime
QuickBooks Online
Xero
Excel / Google Sheets
If you’re not using a system yet, we help you migrate to a VAT-ready software, and generate compliant reports that feed directly into your VAT return—saving you hours every filing cycle.
We’re more than just VAT return preparers. We act as your on-call VAT advisors—available to answer questions like:
“Can I claim VAT on this expense?”
“What do I do with a supplier who isn’t VAT-registered?”
“Do I need to register a branch separately?”
“What if I charged VAT incorrectly?”
With every return cycle, we provide insights, red flags, and recommendations to help you get better with VAT—not just stay compliant.
Q1: What is a VAT return?
A VAT return is a summary report submitted to the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR) showing your business’s taxable sales, purchases, input VAT, and output VAT during a given period.
Q2: Who needs to file VAT returns in Bahrain?
Any business registered for VAT with the NBR must file returns—either monthly or quarterly, depending on their assigned schedule.
Q3: How often do I have to file VAT returns?
Most businesses in Bahrain file quarterly VAT returns, though some larger companies file monthly.
Q4: What happens if I miss the VAT filing deadline?
You may face penalties starting from BHD 500, plus interest on late VAT payments and potential audits.
Q5: Can I file VAT returns myself?
Yes, but many businesses choose expert help to avoid mistakes, maximize input VAT, and ensure compliance with Bahrain VAT Law.
Q6: How do you help with VAT return filing?
We review your records, prepare your return, ensure proper classification of VAT, and submit it through the NBR portal on your behalf.
Q7: What’s the NBR portal?
The NBR (National Bureau for Revenue) portal is Bahrain’s official online system where VAT returns are filed and tax payments are made.
Q8: What information do I need to provide for VAT filing?
You’ll need to share sales invoices, expense records, VAT account balances, and any import/export documentation.
Q9: What is input VAT vs. output VAT?
Input VAT is tax you pay on purchases. Output VAT is tax you collect from customers. Your return reconciles these to calculate your payable or refundable VAT.
Q10: Can you help with VAT refunds if I overpay?
Yes. If your input VAT exceeds your output VAT, we help you submit refund requests and follow up with the NBR.
Q11: What are common VAT filing mistakes?
Missing reverse charge entries, incorrect expense classification, and invalid invoices are common—our team helps you avoid these.
Q12: What if I didn’t collect VAT on some sales?
You may still owe VAT. We help assess under-reported amounts and recommend corrective steps.
Q13: Can VAT returns be amended after submission?
Yes. We assist with corrections, re-submissions, and disclosures if errors are discovered post-submission.
Q14: What’s the penalty for incorrect VAT declarations?
The NBR may fine you up to BHD 5,000 for inaccurate or false returns.
Q15: How do I know if my VAT filing is accurate?
We conduct a line-by-line review, cross-check input/output VAT, and validate supporting documents before filing.
Q16: Can you help with reverse charge VAT on foreign services?
Yes. We ensure proper accounting of reverse charge VAT on imported services like software subscriptions or consultants.
Q17: What if I have multiple branches—do I file separately?
If your branches share a CR, one return covers all operations. We help consolidate your reporting.
Q18: How long does the filing process take?
With organized data, most returns are prepared and filed within 2–5 business days.
Q19: Do you support urgent or last-minute filings?
Yes. We offer priority VAT filing services for urgent cases (subject to availability).
Q20: Will I receive proof after the VAT return is filed?
Yes. We share a confirmation email and PDF submission copy from the NBR portal.
Q21: Can I change my filing frequency (quarterly/monthly)?
Filing periods are assigned by the NBR, but we can assist in applying for adjustments where appropriate.
Q22: Do you offer monthly VAT filing for high-volume businesses?
Yes. We provide monthly services for clients like logistics firms, agencies, and high-turnover retailers.
Q23: Will you help categorize our expenses?
Yes. We ensure all expenses are VAT-compliant, eligible for input recovery, and correctly classified.
Q24: Can I file VAT returns using Excel records?
Yes. If you’re not using accounting software, we’ll help structure your Excel data for accurate reporting.
Q25: Do you support VAT filing in Arabic?
Yes. We assist with bilingual filing and translation where needed.
Q26: Will this service include reconciliation with my accounting books?
Yes. We reconcile your ledgers and VAT accounts before filing for accuracy.
Q27: Can you work with my existing accountant or bookkeeper?
Absolutely. We collaborate with your internal or external team to manage VAT filings seamlessly.
Q28: Is your filing process secure?
Yes. We follow strict data protection protocols, encrypted file sharing, and limited access control.
Q29: Do I need to be present for the VAT filing?
No. The process is fully remote. We collect data, prepare, and file everything for you.
Q30: What happens after VAT return filing?
You receive confirmation. If VAT is payable, we provide the payment instructions and deadlines.
Q31: What if I can’t pay my VAT right away?
We guide you on penalty mitigation, payment plans, or NBR notifications to manage delays responsibly.
Q32: Can I claim VAT on vehicle fuel or rent?
Yes—if these are used strictly for business, and proper VAT invoices are available.
Q33: Do you help with sector-specific VAT issues (e.g., restaurants)?
Yes. We provide industry-specific VAT solutions based on your operations.
Q34: Will my VAT filing trigger an audit?
Correctly filed VAT returns reduce audit risk. We also flag transactions that might raise red flags proactively.
Q35: Can you help with returns involving foreign currency invoices?
Yes. We use NBR’s exchange rates and guide you on proper conversion and reporting.
Q36: What tools do you use for VAT filing?
We work with Zoho Books, Tally, QuickBooks, Xero, and custom spreadsheets, adapting to your setup.
Q37: Can you track my VAT refund status?
Yes. We offer refund tracking and follow-up services with the NBR.
Q38: Do you file on the same day each quarter?
We track your filing deadlines and aim to file at least 3–5 days in advance to avoid risk.
Q39: What if I made mistakes in previous returns?
We offer return reviews and voluntary disclosures to help clean up past VAT issues.
Q40: Can I get a package with accounting + VAT filing together?
Yes. Ask about our monthly bookkeeping + VAT compliance packages for full-service financial support.
Q41: What is a tax invoice and why does it matter?
A tax invoice is an NBR-compliant sales document required to claim or charge VAT legally. We help review or create yours.
Q42: How long should I keep my VAT documents?
At least 5 years, as per Bahrain’s VAT law. We also help with document archiving.
Q43: Can I file zero returns if I had no sales?
Yes. Filing a zero VAT return is still mandatory if you had no taxable activity during the period.
Q44: Do you help with de-registration from VAT?
Yes. If you’re winding down or fall below the threshold, we assist with VAT cancellation and final filing.
Q45: Can you represent us in case of an NBR audit?
Yes. We offer VAT audit support services, including document prep and communication with the NBR.
Q46: Can you handle multiple entities or group filings?
Yes. We offer multi-entity support and group VAT strategy for related companies.
Q47: Will this service improve my business’s compliance standing?
Yes. Regular, accurate filings improve your compliance reputation with the NBR and potential partners.
Q48: What if I paid VAT late—can I reduce the penalty?
We help with penalty waiver requests and proper explanations to minimize costs.
Q49: Is this service one-time or ongoing?
Both. You can hire us for one-time VAT return filing or subscribe to ongoing quarterly or monthly services.
Q50: How do I get started with your VAT filing services?
Just call us at 📞+973-33277381
or email 📧 info@famabh.com to book your free consultation today.
With the introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) in Bahrain, businesses must ensure they are fully compliant with local regulations to avoid fines and maintain smooth operations. Our services ensure:
✅ Accurate VAT calculations and filings.
✅ Error-free bookkeeping for tax audits.
✅ Cost savings through VAT optimization strategies.
✅ Peace of mind knowing your financials are in expert hands.
✅ Improved business credibility and investor confidence.
✅ Seamless regulatory compliance for local and international operations.
Our services cater to businesses of all sizes and industries operating in Bahrain, including:
📌 Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) – Streamline accounting processes and tax compliance.
📌 Startups & Entrepreneurs – Affordable and efficient accounting solutions to manage finances.
📌 Retail & E-Commerce Businesses – VAT compliance for online and offline transactions.
📌 Construction & Real Estate Companies – VAT advisory on industry-specific transactions.
📌 Corporate Entities & Large Businesses – Advanced accounting strategies for profitability.
📌 Freelancers & Consultants – Hassle-free tax reporting and financial planning.
📌 Manufacturing & Trading Companies – Optimize VAT compliance on goods and imports.
📌 Service-Based Businesses – Financial management for professional service providers.
📌 Step 1: Consultation & Assessment – Understanding your business needs.
📌 Step 2: Implementation of Accounting & VAT Systems – Setting up cloud-based solutions.
📌 Step 3: Ongoing Compliance & Reporting – Monthly financial management and VAT filings.
📌 Step 4: Audit Support & Advisory – Ensuring full regulatory compliance and business growth.
📌 Step 5: Financial Analysis & Growth Planning – Helping businesses scale with strong financial planning.
🚨 Did you know? Businesses failing to comply with Bahrain’s VAT regulations can face penalties up to BHD 10,000 for late or incorrect filings! Our experts ensure:
✅ Timely VAT returns & error-free financial statements.
✅ Accurate record-keeping for VAT reclaims & audits.
✅ Guidance on VAT-exempt and zero-rated transactions.
✅ VAT risk assessment & compliance checks to avoid fines.
✅ Optimized tax strategies to enhance profitability.
✅ Assistance with government tax incentives and rebates.
🔹 Certified Accountants & VAT Specialists with deep industry expertise.
🔹 Customized Accounting & VAT Solutions for every business.
🔹 Reliable, Transparent, and Affordable Services.
🔹 100% Compliance Guarantee with Bahrain’s financial laws.
🔹 Cloud-Based, Secure, and Efficient Accounting Processes.
🔹 End-to-End Financial Support from Bookkeeping to Tax Advisory.
🔹 Trusted by Hundreds of Businesses Across Bahrain.
Accounting is not just about tracking income and expenses; it plays a key role in a company’s success by:
Ensuring compliance with Bahrain’s financial laws and regulations.
Providing accurate financial insights for informed decision-making.
Helping businesses optimize tax planning and VAT compliance.
Enhancing transparency and credibility with investors and stakeholders.
Supporting business growth through strategic budgeting and forecasting.
Whether you handle accounting in-house or outsource accounting services in Bahrain, having a well-structured accounting system is non-negotiable for success.
✅ Expert Accountants & VAT Specialists – We handle everything from bookkeeping to VAT filing.
✅ 100% Compliance with Bahrain’s Tax Laws – Avoid penalties and late filings.
✅ Accurate & Transparent Financial Reporting – Essential for decision-making and audits.
✅ Cost-Effective & Scalable Solutions – Tailored accounting services for businesses of all sizes.
✅ Cloud-Based Accounting & VAT Automation – Secure and efficient financial management.
✅ Industry-Specific Expertise – Customized solutions for various business sectors.
✅ Dedicated Support – Personalized assistance for financial planning and compliance.
Various regulatory bodies govern Bahrain’s accounting landscape, ensuring businesses adhere to financial reporting and compliance requirements.
Regulatory Authority | Role in Accounting Compliance |
---|---|
Ministry of Industry & Commerce (MOIC) | Oversees business registrations, financial regulations, and commercial compliance. |
Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) | Regulates financial institutions, banks, and investment firms in Bahrain. |
National Bureau for Revenue (NBR) | Governs VAT registration, compliance, and reporting. |
Bahrain Commercial Companies Law (BCCL) | Mandates financial record-keeping, audits, and reporting for companies. |
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) | Global accounting standard applied in Bahrain for financial transparency. |
Key Takeaway: Businesses operating in Bahrain must maintain accurate accounting records, submit periodic financial reports, and comply with VAT regulations to avoid penalties.
Bahrain follows International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), ensuring businesses align with global best practices. The Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) standards also apply to Islamic finance institutions operating in Bahrain.
Accounting Standard | Applicable Businesses |
IFRS | Public companies, multinational corporations, financial institutions |
IFRS for SMEs | Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) |
AAOIFI | Islamic financial institutions |
Companies are required to maintain financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports, adhering to IFRS principles.
Businesses in Bahrain can benefit from a range of accounting services that streamline operations and ensure compliance.
Accurate bookkeeping ensures every financial transaction is recorded properly. This includes:
Recording daily transactions.
Managing accounts payable and receivable.
Reconciling bank statements.
Bahrain implemented VAT (Value Added Tax) at 10%, requiring businesses to:
Register for VAT with the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR).
File VAT returns on time to avoid penalties.
Maintain proper VAT invoicing and compliance documentation.
Efficient payroll management ensures timely salary payments while complying with Bahrain’s labor laws.
Monthly salary processing.
End-of-service benefits calculation.
WPS (Wage Protection System) compliance.
Businesses must maintain annual financial statements for tax reporting and auditing purposes.
Preparation of balance sheets, profit & loss statements, and cash flow reports.
Conducting internal and external audits.
Ensuring compliance with MOIC and CBB regulations.
Many businesses in Bahrain use accounting software like:
Zoho Books (for SMEs & startups)
QuickBooks (for cloud-based accounting)
Tally ERP (for large enterprises)
Odoo ERP (for automated accounting & reporting)
Solution: Work with an experienced accounting firm in Bahrain to stay updated on new tax laws and compliance regulations.
Solution: Use automated accounting software or outsource VAT compliance to professionals.
Solution: Implement cloud-based payroll systems to ensure error-free salary processing.
Solution: Conduct periodic audits and use standardized accounting frameworks like IFRS.
Yes, businesses with an annual turnover above BHD 37,500 must register for VAT in Bahrain.
Zoho Books, QuickBooks, Tally ERP, and Odoo are popular choices for Bahrain companies.
Yes, all businesses in Bahrain must undergo an annual external audit as per the Bahrain Commercial Companies Law.
Yes, many businesses choose to outsource accounting in Bahrain to specialized firms for cost efficiency and compliance.
Bahrain has adopted the Bahraini Accounting Standards (BAS), which are aligned with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). These standards ensure consistency, transparency, and comparability of financial statements across businesses.
Most businesses in Bahrain are required to prepare their financial statements in accordance with IFRS. These globally recognized standards enhance the credibility of financial reports and facilitate international business operations.
Bahrain’s taxation system is relatively simple compared to other countries. Key taxes include:
Value Added Tax (VAT): Introduced in 2019, VAT is levied at a standard rate of 5% on most goods and services.
Corporate Tax: Bahrain does not impose corporate tax on most businesses, except for oil and gas companies, which are subject to a 46% tax rate.
Withholding Tax: A 5% withholding tax is applied to royalties, interest, and other payments made to non-residents.
Whether you’re a small business or a multinational company, having accurate, compliant, and strategic accounting in Bahrain is essential for success. From VAT compliance and bookkeeping to financial reporting and auditing, the right accounting partner can save you time, money, and legal troubles.
Get Started Today! If you need expert accounting in Bahrain, contact us for a free consultation and discover how our tailored services can benefit your business.
Minimize risks and maximize growth with our comprehensive accounting solutions in Bahrain.
With a reputation for precision, and excellence, we are here to support your business growth while ensuring compliance with Bahrain’s financial and regulatory standards.
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Accounting, VAT, & Audit Services by famabh