Introduction
The Degree Attestation UAE process is a crucial step for anyone planning to live, work, or pursue higher education in the United Arab Emirates. Whether you’re an expatriate seeking employment or a student enrolling in a UAE-based institution, attestation of your academic documents validates their authenticity in the eyes of UAE authorities.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the Degree Attestation UAE process — covering the procedures, purpose, required documents, and the roles of various authorities involved.
What is Degree Attestation?
Degree attestation refers to the official process of verifying academic credentials issued by an educational institution. When attesting your degree for the UAE, your documents are authenticated by multiple government authorities in your home country and then finally attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Why is Degree Attestation Required in the UAE?
In the UAE, attested degrees are mandatory for:
- Securing employment in government or private sectors
- Applying for a work visa or residence permit
- Admission to higher education institutions
- Obtaining professional licenses (e.g., for engineers, doctors, teachers)
The goal is to confirm that the submitted degree is genuine and has been issued by a recognized educational body.
Who Needs Degree Attestation in UAE?
The Degree Attestation UAE process applies to:
- Foreign nationals seeking employment in UAE
- Expats aiming to bring their families under sponsorship
- Students applying for admission to UAE universities
- Professionals applying for equivalency certificates or skill recognition
Whether you are from India, the Philippines, Pakistan, the UK, the USA, or any other country, your academic documents must go through this mandatory attestation process.
Step-by-Step Process of Degree Attestation for UAE
1. Notarization (If Required)
In some countries, the degree must first be notarized by a local notary public. This step is often required before government-level attestation.
2. Attestation from the Home Country’s Authorities
The process continues with these steps in your home country:
- Education Department Attestation: The degree is verified by the state or regional education board.
- Ministry of External/Foreign Affairs: The next step is authentication by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) or its equivalent.
- UAE Embassy Attestation: Finally, the UAE Embassy or Consulate in the home country attests the document.
3. Attestation from UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
After arriving in the UAE, the final step is to submit the attested degree to the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for authentication.
Documents Required for Degree Attestation UAE
Here’s a general list of documents needed for the process:
- Original degree certificate
- Passport copy of the applicant
- Visa copy (if applicable)
- Authorization letter (if using an agency)
- Mark sheets or transcripts (some cases)
Note: Requirements may vary depending on the issuing country and the UAE’s current regulations.
Time Required for Degree Attestation
Typically, the Degree Attestation UAE process can take anywhere from 7 to 15 working days. However, this may vary based on:
- Country of origin
- Verification response time from educational institutions
- Public holidays or delays at any government office
Cost of Degree Attestation UAE
The cost can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Country of document issuance
- Number of documents to be attested
- Use of attestation services or agents
On average, the cost may range between AED 300 to AED 1000 per document, including service fees.
Role of Attestation Agencies
Many individuals choose to work with professional attestation agencies to simplify the process. These agencies:
- Collect and submit documents on your behalf
- Ensure compliance with legal requirements
- Minimize the risk of delays or rejection
- Provide tracking and updates
While not mandatory, using a verified agency can save time and effort.
Common Challenges in Degree Attestation UAE
- Mismatch of details: Differences in name spellings, passport number, or birthdate
- Invalid or unrecognized institutions: Degrees from unaccredited universities may be rejected
- Missing stamps or seals: Every attesting authority must provide official validation
- Delayed responses: Especially in cases involving older degrees
To avoid issues, always ensure your documents are clear, accurate, and issued by recognized institutions.
Special Cases in Degree Attestation
1. Online Degrees
Degrees earned via online or distance learning may be subject to additional scrutiny and may not always be accepted for attestation.
2. Attesting Non-English Degrees
Degrees issued in languages other than English or Arabic need to be officially translated before submission for attestation.
3. Lost Degree Certificate
If your original degree certificate is lost, you must apply for a duplicate from your university and then proceed with attestation.
Tips for Successful Degree Attestation in UAE
- Double-check personal details on all documents
- Keep photocopies of all certificates and attestations
- Use authorized agencies with a good reputation
- Plan early, especially if the document is needed for visa processing
- Track your attestation process to avoid unexpected delays
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is degree attestation mandatory for all jobs in the UAE?
Yes, especially for skilled or professional roles. Unskilled jobs may not always require it.
Q2: Can I attest my degree after arriving in UAE?
Partially, yes. But most initial attestations must be completed in the home country before MOFA in UAE can complete the process.
Q3: Can I do the attestation process myself?
Yes, but it can be time-consuming. Many prefer using attestation services to streamline the steps.
Q4: What if my degree is not attested?
You may not be eligible for employment, visa processing, or education admissions in the UAE without attestation.
Q5: Is there a validity period for attested documents?
No fixed validity, but some employers or institutions may require recently attested documents.
Conclusion
The Degree Attestation UAE process is a vital legal requirement for many residents and professionals planning to establish their future in the Emirates. Properly attested academic credentials ensure your qualifications are recognized by UAE authorities and institutions. Though it involves multiple steps and government departments, preparing the correct documents and understanding the process can make the journey smooth and hassle-free.
Whether you handle it yourself or use a service provider, timely attestation is key to achieving your professional or educational goals in the UAE.
