How immigrants can get their documents attested in UAE for work permits

Residents in the UAE who hold foreign-issued certificates, such as degrees, birth or marriage certificates, must have them attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) before they can be used legally in the country.

The attestation process confirms that a document is genuine and issued by a recognised authority. It is required for work permits, residence visa applications, family sponsorship, and other official procedures.

MOFA allows residents to complete the process entirely online via its website or mobile app. Typing centres and professional attestation services can also submit documents on behalf of applicants.

How the process works

1. Access MOFA Services: Residents must log in using UAE Pass, select “Document Attestation” under Individual Services, and choose “Attestation inside the UAE.”
   
   
2. Select Attestation Type: The applicant indicates that the document was issued outside the UAE, selects the country of origin, and confirms the type of document.
   
   
3. Confirm Previous Attestations: MOFA requires prior verification by the issuing country’s foreign ministry and the UAE embassy or consulate in that country.
   
   
4. Provide Personal and Delivery Details: Applicants must submit their name, contact details, and courier delivery preferences. Original documents are collected by a courier and delivered to MOFA.
   
   
5. Pay Fees: Attestation costs Dh150 per document, with courier fees ranging from Dh31 for normal delivery to Dh105 for express service.
   
   

According to MOFA, the attestation process usually takes up to three working days, depending on the delivery option. Applicants can track their application, make changes, or raise enquiries through MOFA customer support.

Attestation ensures that foreign documents are legally recognised in the UAE, protecting against fraud and fake qualifications. This digital and courier-based system simplifies the process for residents across the country.