MOFA Attestation

MOFA stands for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is a government body responsible for handling a country's foreign relations and international diplomacy, including but not limited to managing diplomatic missions, formulating foreign policies, and representing the country in international forums. In the context of document attestation, MOFA attestation often refers to the final step where documents are authenticated for international use by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the respective country, ensuring their legitimacy and acceptance abroad. This is particularly relevant for individuals planning to work, live, or study in foreign countries, as MOFA attestation confirms the authenticity of their documents as per international legal standards.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) is a governmental entity in the United Arab Emirates with a diverse range of responsibilities, including document attestation. MoFAIC is tasked with reviewing and endorsing documents issued by various local governmental entities in Dubai and by its international missions. Its attestation services cover a wide variety of documents, spanning from personal to commercial, originating from either within the UAE or abroad.

What is MOFA attestation?

MOFA attestation involves verifying the authenticity of signatures and seals on documents originating from within the UAE or overseas. In Dubai, obtaining attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is essential for securing a UAE residence visa.

MOFA Attestation is required for three main types of certificates, classified based on their characteristics, intended use, and the relevant government department involved in the attestation procedure. These categories are delineated by their unique characteristics and common features.
Academic Certificates, Personal Records, and Business Documentation

Why is MOFA attestation mandatory?

• Legal Requirement: Often mandatory for various purposes such as visa applications, employment contracts, business setup, etc.
• Verification of Authenticity: Ensures that foreign documents are genuine and properly authenticated.
• Compliance: Demonstrates adherence to the UAE's legal and administrative requirements.
• Facilitates Recognition: Enhances acceptance of foreign documents by UAE authorities and institutions.
• Streamlines processes: expedites administrative procedures like visa applications and legal transactions.
• Builds Trust: Adds credibility and reliability to documents, fostering trust among parties involved.
• Avoids Delays and Rejection: Prevents complications, delays, or rejections in official matters in the UAE.

MOFA attestation is crucial for smooth operations and interactions within the UAE, serving to validate the authenticity of foreign documents and ensure compliance with local regulations.

What is the fee for attesting documents through MOFA?

The fee for MOFA attestation of both personal and educational documents, whether issued inside or outside the UAE, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) is AED 150 per document, plus courier fees. MoFAIC in Dubai enforces this standard rate across all types of documents, regardless of their origin.

The MOFA attestation fees for business-related documents, regardless of whether they are issued within or outside the UAE, amount to AED 2,000 per document.

What types of documents can't MOFA attest to?

• National identity cards, such as Emirates ID
• Original passports
• Domicile-related documents
• Documents pertaining to immovable property

How do I get my MOFA certificate attested?

To get your MOFA certificate attested in the UAE, you'll typically need to follow these steps:

1. Document Preparation: Ensure your certificate is genuine and issued by the relevant authorities. Check for any requirements specific to your certificate type.
2. Notarization: If required, have your certificate notarized by a recognized authority in your country. This step verifies the authenticity of the document.
3. Attestation by the home country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Take your certificate to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (or equivalent) in your home country for attestation. They will authenticate the document's validity for use abroad.
4. Attestation by the UAE Embassy: Once your certificate is attested by your home country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it needs to be attested by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in your home country. This step further verifies the document's authenticity for use in the UAE.
5. Attestation by MOFA in the UAE: Upon arrival in the UAE, submit your attested certificate to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) for final attestation. This step confirms the document's validity for use within the UAE.
6. Payment of Fees: Be prepared to pay any applicable fees for the attestation process. Fees can vary depending on the type of certificate and the specific requirements.
7. Collection of Attested Certificate: Once the attestation process is complete, collect your attested certificate from the relevant authorities.

It's important to note that the exact process and requirements may vary depending on the type of certificate and the specific procedures of each country and embassy or consulate. It's recommended to check with the UAE Embassy or Consulate in your home country and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE for the most up-to-date information and guidance regarding the attestation process.

The processing time for MOFA attestation by MoFAIC in Dubai may take up to two business days, regardless of whether you submit a personal, educational, or commercial certificate. After attestation, standard courier services typically require an additional 4 to 5 business days for delivery, while express service ensures next-day delivery.

Choosing us for your MOFA attestation needs offers several key advantages:

1. Expertise and Experience: Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in navigating the MOFA attestation process efficiently, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for our clients.
2. Fast and Reliable Service: We prioritize quick turnaround times without compromising on the accuracy and reliability of the attestation process, understanding the importance of timely document processing for our clients.
3. Comprehensive Support: From document collection to final delivery, we offer end-to-end support, including detailed guidance on the required documentation and the attestation procedure, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
4. Transparent Pricing: With us, there are no hidden fees. We provide clear, upfront pricing for our attestation services, offering value for money and peace of mind.
5. Personalized Solutions: Recognizing that each client's needs are unique, we tailor our services to meet your specific requirements, whether for individual or corporate document attestation.
6. Secure and Confidential: We adhere to strict confidentiality and security measures to protect your personal information and documents throughout the attestation process.
7. Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to customer service excellence means we go the extra mile to ensure your complete satisfaction with our MOFA attestation services.

For further information and inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact our team through our UAE hotline at +971 58 648 2332. Alternatively, you can reach out to us via WhatsApp for assistance.