If you’re a Pakistani or Indian living in the UAE and planning to apply for a job or change employers, MOFA attestation is something you’ll definitely need. It's a process that confirms your documents, like degrees or certificates, are real and officially accepted in the UAE. Many of us bring important documents from back home, like educational certificates, marriage papers, or experience letters. But in order to use them here for job applications or visa processes, they must be properly attested. First, they get stamped by the UAE Embassy in your home country, and then finally by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Dubai. MOFA attestation basically gives your documents the green light to be used legally in the UAE. It’s one of the most important steps if you're planning to settle or work here.
What Is MOFA Attestation and Why Is It Needed in Dubai?
MOFA attestation is simply a final stamp or signature from the UAE government that confirms your documents are real. Before MOFA stamps them, they should already be attested by your home country's authorities, like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pakistan or India, and then by the UAE Embassy there.
If you are living in the UAE, this stamp is important to show that your documents are correct and trustworthy. Whether it’s for a job, a visa, or starting a business, MOFA attestation gives your documents governmental recognition in the UAE.
Who Needs MOFA attestation for a Job in the UAE?
If you're applying for a job, planning to change companies, or even bringing your family to the UAE, MOFA attestation is a must. It is necessary for:
- New employment visas
- Changing jobs
- Higher studies or training programs
- Sponsoring your spouse or children
- Legal procedures or setting up a business
Basically, if you want your documents to be accepted by UAE authorities, they’ll need this stamp.
Step-by-Step Process of MOFA Attestation in Dubai
- Step-by-Step Process of MOFA Attestation in Dubai
- Embassy Attestation
- MOFA Attestation in Dubai
- Getting Your Documents Back
- Fees
- Timeframe
If your documents are not already certified in Pakistan or India, the first step is to get them certified by the local government or a notary public there. This usually happens before you move to the UAE.
Next, your documents are sent to the UAE Embassy in your country of origin. This verifies your home country recognizes the document as effective.
Now comes the final step, MOFA in Dubai checks everything and stamps your documents. This indicates the UAE's official acceptance of them legally.
Once verified, your documents will be returned to you. If you use an agency, they will handle everything and deliver them safely.
Fees for MOFA verification differ depending on document type and service provider. Fees generally start from AED 150 per document. Some extra charges may apply depending on the courier.
The attestation service can take a few days to many weeks. It normally takes 2–3 working days. Some urgent services can do it in 1 day.
Documents Required for MOFA Attestation for Job Visa
- Diplomas
- Degrees
- Transcripts
Personal Documents
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce certificate
- Death certificate
- Police clearance
- CNIC/NICOP copy
- Passport copy
Other Documents
- Power of attorney
- Commercial papers
- Bank letters
- Business documents
Time, Cost & Common Mistakes to Avoid
How long does it take?
It takes 2 to 3 working days, but urgent services can get it done faster.
What does it cost?
The MOFA fee is AED 150 per document. Extra costs may apply for courier or agent services.
What mistakes should be avoided?
- Sending the incorrect or incomplete documents
- Missing previous certificates from your homeland
- Signature mismatches or spelling errors
- Failing to translate non-English documents if necessary
- Avoiding these simple mistakes can save you a lot of time and stress.
Conclusion
If you are living in the UAE and intend to work or support a family, MOFA attestation is not just a formality; it is a necessity. Without it, your documents will not be accepted by employers, immigration, or even universities.
At Stanford Global Attestation Services, we make the entire process smooth and stress-free. Whether it is your degree, marriage certificate, or anything else, we will take care of it from start to finish. You can rest easy knowing your paperwork is in good hands.
F.A.Q
Hidden Subtitle for Accessibility
Q:How long does MOFA attestation take in the UAE?
Answer
It takes around 2 to 3 working days. For urgent cases, it can be done in 1 day.
Q: How much does it cost?
Answer
It’s AED 150 per document, plus courier or service fees.
Q:What’s the process?
Answer
MOFA checks your original and photocopied documents and then stamps them to confirm they’re legit.
Q:How do I get documents attested by the UAE Embassy in Pakistan or India?
Answer
First, get them stamped by your local Foreign Affairs office, then submit them to the UAE Embassy in your country. After that, bring them to MOFA in the UAE.