From the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR). We confirm the current requirement before configuring your system.
Compliance
The records and controls to consider when configuring VAT recordkeeping in an ERP system in Bahrain.




Compliance![]()
Talk to Us About Compliance
The records and controls to consider when configuring VAT recordkeeping in an ERP system in Bahrain.
On the call we can cover
Prefer to chat? Message us on WhatsApp or email contact@erpbahrain.com.
Book a Free Consultation
Leave your details and we will arrange a call.
This page is part of our Bahrain compliance series. Related topics: VAT Registration, VAT Invoice Fields. Apply them in Zoho Books, Odoo Accounting or ERPNext Accounting, and see all compliance topics.

Overview![]()
VAT Recordkeeping affects how records are captured, approved and reported in your ERP. This guide lists the records involved and the controls worth putting in place.
The official rules come from the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR). We configure the system to what your adviser confirms.
More![]()
Controls![]()
| Control | Evidence to keep |
|---|---|
| Documents are retained for the period your adviser confirms | Approval record, report or screenshot with date |
| Records are searchable by period and party | Approval record, report or screenshot with date |
| Access to records is controlled | Approval record, report or screenshot with date |
| Backups include attachments | Approval record, report or screenshot with date |
Configuration![]()
Settings to review during implementation. Exact names differ by platform.
Setup![]()
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. Confirm | Confirm the current requirement for VAT recordkeeping with the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR) |
| 2. Map records | Map tax invoices, supplier documents, customs documents to ERP fields |
| 3. Configure | Set up document attachments, retention settings, search filters |
| 4. Add controls | Enable the controls above, with approvals and logging |
| 5. Test | Run the scenarios below with sample data and compare with expected results |
| 6. Document | Record settings, owners and the review rhythm, then train users |
Testing![]()
| Scenario to test | Expected result |
|---|---|
| Try to break this control: documents are retained for the period your adviser confirms | The system blocks or flags it, and the attempt is logged |
| Try to break this control: records are searchable by period and party | The system blocks or flags it, and the attempt is logged |
| Try to break this control: access to records is controlled | The system blocks or flags it, and the attempt is logged |
| Try to break this control: backups include attachments | The system blocks or flags it, and the attempt is logged |
| Run the process end to end with sample data | Reports reconcile with the transactions entered |
Avoid![]()
These are the mistakes we see most often when VAT recordkeeping is configured in an ERP system.
People![]()
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Finance or HR lead | Owns the process and reviews exceptions |
| Accountant or adviser | Confirms the rule and signs off configuration |
| System administrator | Maintains settings, roles and logs |
| Internal or external auditor | Tests controls and evidence |
Ongoing![]()
| When | Review |
|---|---|
| Before go-live | Confirm requirements with the authority or your adviser; test with sample documents |
| Monthly | Reconcile reports to filings or statements; review exceptions |
| Quarterly | Review user access, approvals and changes made to settings |
| After a rule change | Update configuration, retest and record the change |
Keep Exploring
FAQ![]()
From the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR). We confirm the current requirement before configuring your system.
The rules come from the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR). Always check current official sources.
Tax invoices, Supplier documents, Customs documents, Adjustment records.
Yes. We configure and test the system against the requirements your adviser confirms.
Tax invoices; Supplier documents; Customs documents; Adjustment records.
Documents are retained for the period your adviser confirms; Records are searchable by period and party; Access to records is controlled; Backups include attachments.
Document attachments; Retention settings; Search filters; Backup policy.
Project Proposal![]()
Ready to Start With your project?
Share a few details about your business and we will come back with a practical proposal.
Request a Project Proposal
Tell us about your business and we will come back with a practical proposal.
Let’s Build a Smarter Business Together
Tell us about your processes and goals, and we will recommend the right ERP, CRM and automation approach.

