For residents of the United Arab Emirates, getting papers authenticated may be a necessary procedure. The process of attestation verifies the legitimacy of the signature and seal on papers that are issued domestically or internationally. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers this service through its internet channels as well as through its embassies and consulates overseas.
The cost of MoFAIC attestation for commercial documents, whether issued in or outside the UAE, is AED 2,000 each. These documents may include but aren’t limited to commercial licenses, certificates of good standing, and decisions from the board of directors. For documents issued outside the UAE. One of UAE’s embassies or consulates in the issuing country can attest to the document by applying through MoFAIC online channels. Finally, documents must be attested in the UAE by applying for attestation.
MoFAIC provides Smart Attestation for academic certificates and documents to facilitate document attestation, which is available on the Ministry’s website and in its intelligent application. The service is part of MoFAIC’s e-transformation project, which aims to provide services to the public around the clock. Graduates can apply for intelligent attestation by uploading a scanned copy of their certificate, filling in the required information, and paying the fees online.
Understanding Attestation in the UAE
Definition and Importance of Attestation
Attestation is basically verifying the authenticity of official documents and certificates. It is an essential step often required before submitting documents for various purposes, such as employment, education, and immigration. In the UAE, attestation is mandatory for all foreign documents to be used legally.
Attestation is essential as it ensures that the documents are genuine and the information provided is accurate. It also helps prevent fraud and forgery, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the legal system.
Role of MoFAIC
The main body in charge of document attestation in the United Arab Emirates is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. In the UAE, MoFAIC authentication is necessary for all foreign papers. The procedure include confirming the documents’ legitimacy and making sure they adhere to the government of the United Arab Emirates’ criteria.
MoFAIC has made the attestation process simple and convenient for applicants. The process can be completed online through the MoFAIC website or in person at one of the MoFAIC attestation centers. Applicants can also submit their documents through courier services.
MoFAIC attestation involves several steps, including document verification, stamping, and signature authentication. Depending on the type of document and the volume of applications, the process can take a few days to several weeks.
In conclusion, attestation is an essential process that ensures the authenticity and accuracy of official documents and certificates. MoFAIC plays a crucial role in the attestation process in the UAE, ensuring that all foreign documents meet the government’s requirements.
Preparing Your Documents for Attestation
Before submitting your documents for attestation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there are a few key steps to make sure the process goes smoothly. This section will cover the necessary steps for preparing your documents for attestation, including identifying document types, required documents for attestation, translation, and legalization.
Identifying Document Types
The first step in preparing your documents for attestation is to identify the type of document that needs to be attested. MoFAIC attests to various documents, including educational and commercial documents and personal documents such as birth and marriage certificates. Ensuring you have the correct document type before submitting it for attestation is essential.
Required Documents for Attestation
In addition to the original document that needs to be attested, a few other documents are required for the attestation process. These include a copy of the applicant’s passport, a copy of the UAE residence visa, and a completed application form. It is essential to ensure that all of these documents are in order before submitting your documents for attestation.
Translation and Legalization
If the original document is not in Arabic or English, it must be translated into one of these languages before it can be attested. A certified translator must do the translation, and the original document and the translation must be submitted for attestation. Additionally, suppose the document was issued outside of the UAE. In that case, it will need to be legalized by the relevant authorities in the issuing country before MoFAIC can attest to it.
The Attestation Process
Getting your documents attested from MoFAIC in the UAE is straightforward. The attestation process involves three main steps: submitting your documents, paying the fees, and receiving the attested documents. Here is a step-by-step guide to the attestation process.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Prepare your documents: Ensure they are complete and meet the attestation requirements. If you need clarification on the requirements, you can check them on the MoFAIC website.
- Apply for attestation: You can apply online through the MoFAIC website or the innovative services available on the UAE Pass app. Alternatively, you can submit your documents in person at one of the MoFAIC service centers.
- Pay the fees: The fees for attestation vary depending on the document type. You can pay the fees online or at the MoFAIC service center.
- Receive the attested documents: Once your documents are attested, you can collect them in person or have them delivered to you through courier services.
Online and Offline Submission
MoFAIC offers both online and offline options for submitting your documents for attestation. Online submission is convenient and can be done from anywhere, while offline submission allows you to submit your documents in person and get any queries resolved immediately.
Courier and Delivery Services
If you are still waiting to collect your attested documents in person, you can opt for courier or delivery services. MoFAIC offers courier services for an additional fee, which allows you to receive your attested documents at your doorstep. Alternatively, you can authorize someone else to collect the documents.
The attestation process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of document and the mode of submission. Therefore, planning and allowing sufficient time for the process to be completed is essential.
Fees and Payment Methods
Attestation Fees
Getting your documents attested by MoFAIC in the UAE requires payment of a fee. The costs vary according to the document type and whether it was issued within or outside the UAE. The cost for attesting individual certificates issued within the UAE differs from those issued outside the UAE.
The fees for attesting documents issued within the UAE are as follows:
- AED 150 for educational certificates
- AED 200 for commercial documents
- AED 100 for personal documents
The fees for attesting documents issued outside the UAE are as follows:
- AED 200 for educational certificates
- AED 300 for commercial documents
- AED 150 for personal documents
Accepted Payment Options
MoFAIC in the UAE accepts various payment options for attesting documents. Payments can be made using credit cards, direct debit, Samsung Pay, or Apple Pay. It is important to note that fees are charged for every document that requires attestation.
Confirming the accepted payment options before visiting the MoFAIC Attestation Center is advisable. This will ensure you have the correct payment method and avoid delays in the attestation process.
Specific Document Attestation
Different types of documents require attestation when getting your documents attested in the UAE. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers attestation services for educational certificates, personal records, and commercial documents.
Educational Certificates
MoFAIC provides attestation services for educational certificates, including degrees, diplomas, and transcripts. To get your educational certificates attested, you need to follow the steps outlined by MoFAIC, which include:
- Getting your certificates attested by the educational institution that issued them
- Getting your certificates attested by the Ministry of Education in the UAE or the relevant authority in your home country
- Getting your certificates attested by the UAE embassy or consulate in your home country
- Getting your certificates attested by MoFAIC in the UAE
Personal Documents
MoFAIC provides attestation services for personal documents, including birth and marriage certificates. To get your documents attested, you need to follow the steps outlined by MoFAIC, which include:
- Getting your documents attested by the relevant authority in your home country
- Getting attested by the UAE embassy or consulate in your home country
- Getting your documents attested by MoFAIC in the UAE
Commercial Documents
MoFAIC provides attestation services for commercial documents, including employment contracts and invoices. To get your commercial documents attested, you need to follow the steps outlined by MoFAIC, which include:
- Having the appropriate authorities in your own nation certify your papers
- Getting the UAE embassy or consulate in your native country to certify your papers
- Having the appropriate UAE authority, such as the Ministry of Human Resources or Emiratization for employment contracts, certify your documentation
- Having MoFAIC in the UAE confirm your paperwork
It is important to note that the specific requirements for document attestation may vary depending on the document type and country of origin. Checking with MoFAIC or the relevant authority for the most up-to-date information and requirements is recommended.
Overall, getting your documents attested in the UAE can be a complex process. Still, by following the steps outlined by MoFAIC and ensuring that you have all the necessary documents and information, you can provide a smooth and successful attestation process.
Attestation for Different Customer Types
Getting documents attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) is necessary for many UAE individuals, companies, and organizations. Here is a breakdown of the attestation process for different customer types:
Individuals and Residents
Individuals and residents in the UAE need to get their documents attested for various reasons, such as visa applications or employment purposes. The attestation process for individuals and residents is straightforward. They need to follow these steps:
- Visit the MoFAIC website and create an account.
- Select “Services for Individuals” and choose “Attestation of Official Documents, Certificates.”
- Select the type of document(s) for attestation and upload them.
- Pay the fees online and apply.
Companies and Organizations
Companies and organizations in the UAE must get their documents attested for various purposes, such as using a bank account or registering a new business. The attestation process for companies and organizations is slightly different. They need to follow these steps:
- Visit the MoFAIC website and create an account.
- Select “Services for Companies and Organizations” and choose “Attestation of Official Documents, Certificates.”
- Select the type of document(s) for attestation and upload them.
- Pay the fees online and apply.
Students and Employees
Students and employees in the UAE need to get their educational and employment documents attested for various purposes, such as continuing education or job applications. The attestation process for students and employees is similar to that for individuals and residents. They need to follow these steps:
- Visit the MoFAIC website and create an account.
- Select “Services for Individuals” and choose “Attestation of Official Documents, Certificates.”
- Select the type of document(s) for attestation and upload them.
- Pay the fees online and apply.
In conclusion, the attestation process for different customer types is similar. The MoFAIC has made it easy for individuals, companies, and organizations to attest their documents by providing online services. The process is straightforward and can be completed quickly, making it convenient for those needing to attest their documents for various purposes.
After Attestation
Receiving Attested Documents
The applicant will receive their papers back when they have been authenticated by the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC). Depending on the kind of document and the delivery method chosen by the applicant, the time it takes to receive the certified papers may change.
For applicants who have selected courier delivery, the attested documents will be sent to the address provided by the applicant. Applicants who collect the attested documents in person may do so at the MoFAIC attestation center. It is important to note that the attested documents should be collected within the specified time frame, as failure may result in additional fees.
Verification of Attestation
After receiving the attested documents, the applicant should verify the authenticity of the attestation. This can be done either electronically or by visiting the MoFAIC attestation center.
The applicant can scan the QR code provided on the attested document using a smartphone or electronic device for electronic verification. This will take the applicant to a website where they can verify the authenticity of the attestation.
Alternatively, the applicant can visit the MoFAIC attestation center and request that the authenticity of the attestation be verified in person. The applicant should bring the original document and a copy of the attested document for verification.
It is important to note that the attestation only confirms the authenticity of the signature and seal on the document and not the content of the document itself.
Contacting MoFAIC for Support
Several customer service channels are available if you encounter any issues while getting your documents attested from MoFAIC in the UAE. The following subsections provide information on how to contact MoFAIC for support and how to troubleshoot common issues.
Customer Service Channels
MoFAIC provides several customer service channels to assist customers with their attestation needs. Customers can reach out to MoFAIC through the following channels:
- MoFAIC Inquiry Portal: Customers can submit their inquiries and complaints through the MoFAIC inquiry portal. The portal is available around the clock, and customers will get a response within 48 hours.
- Phone: Customers can call MoFAIC’s customer service hotline at 800-44444 for assistance with their attestation needs. The hotline is available Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Email: Customers can send their inquiries and complaints to ask@mofaic.gov.ae.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
MoFAIC understands that customers may encounter issues while getting their documents attested. The following are some common issues that customers may encounter and how to troubleshoot them:
- Document not attested by UAE Embassy or Consulate: If a UAE Embassy or Consulate did not attest your document, you can apply for attestation through MoFAIC’s online channels. Ensure that your original document is attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country before applying for attestation through MoFAIC’s online channels.
- Document rejected by MoFAIC: If MoFAIC rejects your document, ensure that it meets the requirements for attestation. Check if your document is attested by a UAE Embassy or Consulate and meets the requirements for attestation. You can also contact MoFAIC’s customer service channels for further assistance.
In conclusion, contacting MoFAIC for support is easy. Customers can reach out to MoFAIC through various channels, and common issues can be resolved through troubleshooting and contacting customer service.
Additional Information
Working Days and Timings
MoFAIC’s attestation services are available from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the weekend in the UAE. The working hours for attestation services are from 8:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. However, it is recommended that the timings of the specific MoFAIC office be checked before visiting.
Express Attestation Services
MoFAIC offers an express attestation service for urgent cases. This service is available for an additional fee and can be completed within a few hours. The express service is available in MoFAIC offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Locations and Jurisdictions
MoFAIC has several offices in the UAE, including in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The locations are as follows:
- Dubai: Bur Dubai, Al Twar, and Al Barsha
- Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen and Al Mushrif
It is important to note that each MoFAIC office has a different jurisdiction. For example, the Bur Dubai office attests to documents issued in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. On the other hand, the Al Bateen office attests to documents issued in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.
MoFAIC’s attestation services are essential for individuals and businesses using their documents in the UAE or abroad. By following the guidelines provided by MoFAIC and submitting the required documents, individuals can ensure that their documents are attested and recognized by the relevant authorities.
Arab MLS
Arab MLS, founded by the bright mind of Ahmed Elbatrawy, is a groundbreaking platform set to revolutionize the real estate realm by providing a Multiple Listing Service. With its innovative approach, Arab MLS promises to streamline property transactions and unlock unprecedented opportunities in the dynamic Arab market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for attesting documents at MoFAIC in the UAE?
The process of attesting documents at MoFAIC in the UAE involves submitting the original document along with a copy of it to the attestation center. The document is then verified for authenticity and attested by the relevant authorities.
Where can I find a MoFAIC attestation center in Dubai?
MoFAIC attestation centers are located in various parts of Dubai. You can find the nearest center by visiting MoFAIC’s official website or contacting their customer service center.
What are the fees associated with MoFAIC attestation in the UAE?
The fees associated with MoFAIC attestation in the UAE depend on the type of document being attested and the level of service required. The costs may also vary depending on the document’s country of origin.
How can I submit my degree certificate for attestation by MoFAIC for UAE employment?
To submit a degree certificate for attestation by MoFAIC for UAE employment, one must visit the nearest attestation center with the original certificate and a copy. The certificate will then be verified and attested by the relevant authorities.
Is there an online platform for MoFAIC attestation services in Dubai?
Yes, MoFAIC provides an online platform for attestation services in Dubai. One can visit MoFAIC’s official website and apply for attestation services online. The online platform offers a convenient and hassle-free way of attesting documents.
What documents are required for the attestation process at MoFAIC Abu Dhabi?
The documents required for the attestation process at MoFAIC Abu Dhabi may vary depending on the type of document being attested and its country of origin. To obtain the list of required documents, it is recommended that you visit MoFAIC’s official website or contact their customer service center.