English translation published by the NBR in its bilingual Regulations file (marked unofficial). The Arabic text published in the Official Gazette remains the legal reference in the event of any discrepancy.
The Article applies three stages: fully deduct Inputs directly attributable to eligible Supplies, block Inputs directly attributable to ineligible Supplies, then apply a proportional ratio only to common Inputs. The numerator is eligible Supplies and the denominator is relevant total Supplies, with stated exclusions. The ratio is calculated for each period and adjusted annually. Another method needs NBR approval, and the NBR may require a fairer method.
Mixed-activity businesses and accounting and cost teams.
A common mistake is applying one percentage to every expense. Direct attribution comes first; only genuinely common Inputs enter the proportional pool.
Current text
Calculate proportional deduction
- 1
Classify Inputs as direct eligible, direct ineligible or common.
- 2
Build the numerator from Supplies granting deduction.
- 3
Build the denominator from relevant total Supplies.
- 4
Remove Capital Asset, incidental and other expressly excluded transactions.
- 5
Apply the ratio only to common Input VAT.
- 6
Round the percentage to the nearest decimal number as stated in the Article.
- 7
Calculate actual period ratios and complete the annual true-up.
- 8
Do not use an alternative method without NBR approval.
Connected provisions
Law — Article (45)
Proportional Input VATThe Law limits deduction to eligible use; this Article sets attribution, ratio and true-up.
Open connected ArticleRegulations — Article (60)
Capital Asset adjustmentDeduction ratios also track changing Capital Asset use.
Open connected ArticleOfficial guides and tools
Connected Madar tools
Taxable and exempt activity
Eligible Supplies are BHD 80,000, ineligible Supplies BHD 20,000, and common Input VAT BHD 1,000 with no exclusions. The ratio is 80%, so BHD 800 of common VAT is deductible. VAT directly tied to eligible Supplies remains directly deductible rather than reduced to 80%.
Questions to help you apply it
- Were direct Inputs attributed first?
- What entered numerator and denominator?
- Were exclusions removed?
- When is the annual true-up?
- Is any alternative method approved?