Document attestation
Foreign documents used in the UAE must be authenticated in a chain that ends with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The attestation chain
- Notarisation in the country of issue, where required.
- Legalisation by the issuing country's foreign ministry or competent authority, which may include an apostille.
- Attestation by the UAE embassy or consulate in that country.
- Attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Legal translation into Arabic, if needed.
Documents commonly attested
- Degree certificates for Golden Visa, Green Visa and some employment permits
- Marriage and birth certificates for family visas
- Company documents for corporate shareholders and branches
- Powers of attorney signed abroad
Timeline
Anything from a few days to several weeks, depending on the country. Start early.
Common questions
Can documents issued in the UAE be used abroad?
Yes. They are attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and then the destination country's embassy, or as that country requires.
Official sources
We check our guidance against these official sources. Always confirm current fees and rules before acting.