Guideline / Greenland

Greenland Tax ID Number (TIN) Guide

In Greenland, a Tax Identification Number (TIN) is essential for both individuals and businesses to ensure proper tax reporting and compliance with local tax regulations. A TIN serves as a unique identifier used by the Greenlandic tax authorities to track taxpayers’ obligations, manage tax filings, and carry out various financial activities. It is vital for anyone involved in taxable activities to have the correct TIN to avoid legal issues, penalties, and complications in business operations. 

All the information presented in this guide is sourced directly from official Greenlandic government websites, ensuring its accuracy and reliability. 

1. Tax Identification Number Types 

Greenland uses a single type of Tax Identification Number (TIN) for both individuals and businesses. This number is commonly referred to as the “CPR Number” for individuals and the “CVR Number” for companies. 

1.1 CPR Number (Central Person Register Number) 

  • CPR Number is assigned to all residents of Greenland. It is used to track personal tax information, social security, and other governmental services. 
  • This number is crucial for individuals filing taxes, applying for services, and engaging in economic activities that require tax identification. 

1.2 CVR Number (Central Business Register Number) 

  • CVR Number is used for businesses and legal entities operating in Greenland. This number is used for tax filings, VAT registration, and other official business-related processes. 
  • All businesses must apply for a CVR number when they start operating in Greenland. 

2. TIN Format and Structure 

The CPR and CVR numbers have specific formats and structures. Below is an outline of the exact format for both types of TINs used in Greenland: 

2.1 CPR Number (For Individuals) 

  • Format: The CPR number is a 10-digit number in the format DDMMYY-XXXX. 
  • First 6 digits: Represent the individual’s date of birth in DDMMYY format (Day, Month, Year). 
  • Last 4 digits: A unique identifier specific to the individual. The last digit is typically odd for males and even for females. 

Example: 120388-1234 

2.2 CVR Number (For Businesses) 

  • Format: The CVR number is an 8-digit number. 
  • The number is assigned when a company or business registers with the Greenlandic tax authorities. 
  • It does not include any letters, only digits, and serves as a business identification number for tax purposes. 

Example: 12345678 

3. Issuing Authority and Registration Process 

The official authority responsible for issuing TINs in Greenland is Skattestyrelsen (The Danish Tax Agency), which also manages the tax registrations for Greenland through the Central Business Register. 

Official Name of the Issuing Body: 
Skattestyrelsen (The Danish Tax Agency) 

Official Website: Skattestyrelsen 

3.1 Registration Process for Individuals (CPR Number) 

  1. Eligibility: All residents of Greenland are eligible for a CPR number, which is automatically assigned at birth or upon receiving a residence permit. 
  1. Required Documents: 
  • For Greenlandic citizens: A birth certificate or an identification document such as a passport. 
  • For foreign residents: Proof of residency in Greenland, such as a residence card or work permit, along with a passport. 
  1. Application Process: 
  • Automatic registration: The CPR number is automatically assigned to individuals once they are registered in the Central Person Register. 
  • Manual application: For non-residents or foreigners, registration is done through the Skattestyrelsen or local municipal offices. 
  1. Fees: The registration for a CPR number is free of charge. 

3.2 Registration Process for Businesses (CVR Number) 

  1. Eligibility: All businesses, including sole proprietors, corporations, and non-profits operating in Greenland, must register for a CVR number. 
  1. Required Documents: 
  • For local businesses: Articles of incorporation, business registration documents, and the business owner’s CPR number. 
  • For foreign businesses: Proof of establishment, ownership details, and the personal information of the legal representative (CPR number). 
  1. Application Process: 
  • Online Registration: Businesses can register for a CVR number through the official Skattestyrelsen website. The online portal provides a step-by-step guide for submitting required documents and forms. 
  • In-person Registration: Alternatively, businesses can visit the Skattestyrelsen or a local tax office in Greenland. 
  1. Fees: There are generally no fees for registering a CVR number. However, services such as expedited processing may incur additional charges. 

4. TIN Verification and Lookup 

To verify the validity of a CPR or CVR number, individuals and businesses can use the official verification tools provided by Skattestyrelsen. 

4.1 CPR Number Verification 

Individuals can verify their own CPR number by contacting the Skattestyrelsen directly. For businesses and legal entities, CPR numbers can also be cross-checked through the Skattestyrelsen database. 

4.2 CVR Number Verification 

Businesses and individuals can verify a CVR number through the Skattestyrelsen‘s online system. The website allows the verification of business details, including registration status, tax classification, and legal status. 

Official Verification Tool: Skattestyrelsen Verification 

It is highly recommended to verify the CPR or CVR numbers through official channels to ensure compliance with local tax laws. 

5. TIN and VAT Number Connection 

In Greenland, the CVR number also serves as the VAT number for businesses. This means that the CVR number is used for both general tax registration and VAT purposes, which simplifies the process for business owners. 

Businesses that are VAT-registered will use their CVR number when filing VAT returns. 

6. Importance of Accurate TIN Validation 

Validating your TIN (either CPR or CVR) is crucial for avoiding issues with the Greenlandic tax authorities. Incorrect or invalid TINs can result in: 

  • Penalties and Fines: Businesses and individuals may face fines for using incorrect or outdated TINs. 
  • Delays in Business Transactions: Incorrect TINs can delay registration, tax filings, and financial operations. 
  • International Business Complications: If your business operates internationally, incorrect TINs may cause difficulties in cross-border transactions and reporting. 

Thus, ensuring the correct TIN is used for all official tax and business transactions is vital for compliance and smooth operations. 

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