MOFA Attestation in the UAE: Procedure, Fee, Location & More
Attestation is a crucial procedure for validating the authenticity of documents, especially in the UAE. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFA) offers this service, confirming the validity of seals and signatures on documents issued both locally and internationally. Recently, attestation has gained importance for those navigating various administrative and legal processes.
In Dubai, this procedure has become essential for expatriates and locals alike, helping them validate everything from educational certificates to personal documents. Understanding the MoFA attestation process, the required documents and associated fees can make your experience much smoother.
This guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to navigate MoFA attestation with ease.
What is MoFA Attestation?
MoFA attestation is a process that confirms the authenticity of documents issued in the UAE or abroad. This procedure ensures that the seals and signatures on your documents are valid, providing legal recognition for various purposes, such as employment, education, and personal matters. The attestation service is offered through MoFA's digital channels and by its embassies and consulates worldwide.
The documents that require attestation vary widely, including educational certificates, birth and marriage certificates, and commercial documents. It is essential to ensure that any document you submit has been attested by the relevant governing bodies before approaching MoFA. Additionally, documents should not be laminated, as this can interfere with the attestation process.
Overall, MoFA attestation plays a critical role in facilitating legal and administrative procedures for individuals and businesses in the UAE, providing peace of mind and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Required Documents for MoFA Attestation
To ensure a smooth attestation process, you need to prepare specific documents. Here's what you will need:
General Requirements
- Original Document: Ensure that the document is in English or Arabic. If it is in another language, provide an official translation.
- Attestation from Relevant Authorities: Before submitting your document to MoFA, it must be attested by the appropriate governing bodies, such as the Ministry of Education for educational certificates or the Ministry of Health for medical reports.
- No Laminated Documents: Make sure that the documents are not laminated as this may hinder the attestation process.
Types of Documents That Can Be Attested
MoFA can attest a wide range of documents, including but not limited to:
- Individual Affairs Documents:
- Educational certificates (transcripts and degrees)
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Death certificates
- Good conduct certificates
- Medical reports
- Employment contracts
- Commercial Documents:
- Commercial licenses
- Contracts and agreements
- Company registration documents
- Financial statements
- Tax certificates
- Power of attorney for commercial matters
- Invoices and Certificates of Origin
Each of these documents must be prepared correctly before submission. Ensure that they have been attested by the relevant authorities in the issuing country if they are issued abroad.
MoFA Attestation Procedure
Attesting your documents through MoFA involves several straightforward steps. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process smoothly:
Step-by-Step Process
- Register Online:
- Visit the MoFA website or use the MoFAIC mobile app.
- If you don't have a UAE PASS account, you will need to create one to log in.
- Submit Your Application:
- After logging in, select the service for attesting official documents.
- Fill out the required information and upload the documents you want to have attested.
- Make sure that all documents have been properly attested by the relevant authorities before submission.
- Payment:
- Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will be prompted to make the payment.
- The standard fee for individual documents is AED 150.
- Courier Service:
- Choose a courier service to send your documents to MoFA. You can select the pickup time that works best for you.
- After attestation, the documents will be returned to you via the chosen courier service.
- Receive Your Documents:
- Once the attestation is complete, your documents will be delivered to your specified location.
Important Tips
- Ensure all provided information is accurate to avoid delays in processing.
- Keep a copy of all documents for your records before sending them for attestation.
- If you have questions, you can reach out to MoFA’s Call Centre for assistance.
Attestation Service Charges
When it comes to the costs associated with MoFA attestation, the fees vary based on the type of documents being attested. Here’s a breakdown:
- Individual Affairs Documents: The fee for attesting personal documents, such as birth certificates and marriage certificates, is AED 150 per document.
- Commercial Documents: For commercial documents, the attestation fee is AED 2,000 per document. This category includes contracts, corporate registrations, and financial statements.
- Commercial Invoices: The charges for attesting commercial invoices depend on the invoice amount and the scale associated with it. For specific details, it’s advisable to consult the attestation fees guide on the MoFA website.
Payment Methods
MoFA offers a variety of convenient payment methods for attestation services. Here are the available options:
- Direct Debit: Users can set up direct debit for seamless payments.
- Credit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are accepted for online payments.
- Mobile Payment Options: Customers can utilize Samsung Pay and Apple Pay for quick and easy transactions.
Benefits of MoFA Attestation
MoFA attestation offers several advantages that make the process worthwhile:
- MoFA attestation validates your documents, confirming their authenticity for use in the UAE and internationally.
- The simplified process saves you time and effort, allowing you to manage all necessary attestations through MoFA's digital platforms.
- Attesting your documents enhances your credibility, making you appear more reliable to employers, institutions, and legal entities.
- MoFA covers a wide range of document types, including personal, commercial, and educational certificates, making it a comprehensive solution.
- The services cater to UAE citizens, residents, and visitors, ensuring everyone can access the attestations they need.
- Multiple convenient payment options are available, including online and mobile app payments, making the attestation process user-friendly.
- MoFA offers dedicated support for individuals with special needs or seniors, making the service inclusive for all.
Attesting your documents with MoFA is an essential step for ensuring their validity in the UAE and abroad. The process is straightforward, offering various methods for submission and payment to accommodate your needs.
With clear guidelines and a range of services, MoFA makes it easier to navigate the requirements for document attestation. By understanding the steps involved and the necessary documents, you can efficiently complete the process.
If you have any questions or need assistance with the attestation process, don't hesitate to reach out to MoFA’s customer service for support.
FAQs
What types of documents can be attested?
MoFA can attest various documents, including educational certificates, marriage certificates, birth and death certificates, commercial contracts, and more.
How long does the attestation process take?
The attestation process typically takes one to three working days, depending on the service chosen.
What if my documents are issued outside the UAE?
Documents issued outside the UAE must be attested by the relevant authorities in that country before you can submit them to MoFA.
Can I track my application status?
Yes, you can track your application status through the MoFA website or app after submission.
What payment methods are accepted for attestation?
MoFA accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and direct debit.
Where can I find MoFA attestation centers?
MoFA has attestation centres in major cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Check the MoFA website for specific locations and contact information.