UAE Marriage Certificate Attestation Guide

If you are married outside the UAE and wish to use your marriage certificate in Dubai, it requires a process known as attestation. In other words, the most important step will be having your marriage certificate attested. It may sound somewhat complicated, so we break it down into easier steps for your understanding.

What is Attestation, and Why is it so Important?

Attestation of a marriage certificate involves the process of authentication and verification of the genuineness and validity of the marriage certificate issued in another country for use in the UAE. Attestation means the marriage will be considered valid and upheld by the UAE authorities, while the couple enjoys the rights and responsibilities under UAE law. It also prevents fraud or misuse of the marriage certificate by verifying the identity and marital status of the couple.

•         Legal Recognition of Marriage: This is a document showing that your marriage is legally accepted by UAE law. This is very important for applying for family visas, opening joint bank accounts, or purchasing property.

•         Smooth Processing for Family Visa Applications: A marriage certificate is a mandatory requirement to apply for a family visa for sponsoring your spouse's residency in the UAE. The attestation saves you from delays or rejections due to doubt over authenticity.

•         Credibility and Security: An attested marriage certificate sets your credibility as a couple in the UAE. It can be required for most administrative procedures and reflects the genuineness of your marital status.

•         Future Plans: If you plan to have children in the UAE, an attested marriage certificate makes the processes of birth registration and all other matters concerning children easier.

The Attestation Process: Step by Step

Here is a step-by-step explanation of how to get your marriage certificate attested and apostilled for use in Dubai.

1. Attestation by a Notary in the Country of Issue: This is the first step in proving that your certificate is genuine under competent authority. Approach any notary public available within the country where your marriage certificate was issued. On producing the certificate, they will stamp and sign it for a fee dependent on the country, type of document, and other factors.

2. Attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in the Home Country: Get it attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country of issuance. This is to show that your certificate is actually recognized by the government of the issuing country. Approach the MoFA office and get it attested. Fees will apply based on the country and document type.

3. UAE Embassy Attestation: Then get your certificate attested by the UAE embassy or consulate in the country where your certificate was issued. This means the UAE government now recognizes your certificate. Whatever the requisite fee is—charges differ from country to country, from document to document—pay, visit the UAE embassy or consulate office, and get it done.

4. Final Approval in the UAE: Finally, authenticate the certificate with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. This is the final attestation to confirm the validity of your certificate within the UAE. Visit the UAE MOFAIC office or the accredited service center and have the ministry attest it.

Required Documents for Marriage Certificate Attestation in Dubai

While applying for attestation of certificates in Dubai, it is important that you have all the required documents so that there is no delay. Required documents for marriage certificate attestation in Dubai are as follows:

•         Required Original Marriage Certificate.

•         Passport Copy.

•         Copy of valid UAE Residence Visa.

•         Application Form for Marriage Attestation in Dubai.

•         Required fee for certificate attestation in Dubai.

The above list of documents is not exhaustive, and some more may be required as per the case.

Important Reminders Along the Way:

•         Checking your Documents: Make sure you have your documents, especially the marriage certificate, correct and free from errors.

•         Translation: The marriage certificate, if neither in Arabic nor English, shall be translated. Translators need to be accredited and accepted by the UAE embassy or MoFAIC.

•         Fees: Be prepared to pay all the processing fees that take place at each step of the attestation process. The fee will depend on the home country and procedures in force in the UAE.

Tips for a Smooth Attestation Process:

•         Plan Ahead: Attestation can take weeks, so plan your move to the UAE accordingly. Apply well in advance to avoid delays at the last minute.

•         Professional Help: The attestation process across borders can be confusing. Marriage lawyers that focus on UAE legalities can help give guidelines to ensure a smooth experience.

How Dubai Court Marriage Lawyers Can Assist You

We at Dubai Court Marriage Lawyers understand the UAE marriage legalities and the attestation process. Marriage certificate attestation for use in Dubai is a required process that requires proper planning and preparation, including identifying the steps, gathering the documents, making the required payments, and waiting for the required time at each stage. A Marriage Lawyer at Dubai Court Marriage can help guide you through the UAE marriage attestation process. We will save you time, money, and hassle in ensuring your marriage certificate is valid and recognized in the UAE.

Call Dubai Court Marriage Lawyers today for an appointment and let us make the attestation process easy for you.