The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has issued a strong reminder to individuals and businesses regarding the mandatory requirement of having a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for mobile wallet accounts. Failure to comply with this regulation could lead to severe consequences, including fines of up to $25,000, imprisonment for as long as 10 years, or potentially both.
FRCS has extended the deadline for compliance to January 31, 2026, providing customers with extra time to update their details in accordance with the new provisions under the Tax Administration Act and the upcoming 2025–2026 National Budget Promulgation.
According to the recently enacted rules, a valid TIN is now required to open and maintain all mobile wallet or e-wallet accounts. The revenue authority is urging anyone who does not possess a TIN to secure one immediately and to ensure their account information is thoroughly updated with their e-wallet service providers well before the deadline.
FRCS has cautioned that non-compliance could also lead to the suspension of services by e-wallet providers. Additionally, the authority has highlighted that businesses must hold a separate e-wallet account specifically for business transactions. These accounts need to be registered under a valid business TIN and utilized exclusively for business-related payments.
The enforcement measures introduced are primarily aimed at enhancing tax compliance, increasing financial transparency, and preventing the misuse of digital payment platforms. FRCS is encouraging both individuals and businesses to expediently act to avoid service interruptions and significant penalties. This initiative serves as a positive step towards fostering a more accountable financial ecosystem in Fiji.
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