Key Takeaways
- UAE is NOT a Hague Convention member — All foreign documents require UAE Embassy attestation + MOFA attestation for use in UAE
- Hague countries (apostille available): USA, UK, India, Ecuador, Philippines, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, China
- Non-Hague countries (full chain required): Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon
- FBI background checks remain the biggest bottleneck (start 8-10 weeks early!)
- Always translate AFTER attestation — never before
- Apostille helps but doesn't eliminate embassy steps: Documents from Hague countries can be apostilled first, but still need UAE Embassy + MOFA attestation
Moving to Dubai is an exciting leap, but the bureaucratic landing can be rough if your paperwork isn't perfect. Whether you're an American from Texas, an Ecuadorian living in Miami, or an Indian professional from Mumbai, your documents must be "attested" to be legally valid in the UAE.
Without proper attestation, you cannot get a work visa, sponsor your family, or enroll children in school.
This guide covers the complete process for all nationalities, with specific sections for Americans, Ecuadorians, Indians, Filipinos, and others. It reflects the current rules as of late 2024, with accurate information about which countries are Hague Convention members.
What We'll Cover
- Understanding apostille and attestation for UAE
- Quick decision flowchart: Which path do you need?
- US citizens: Apostilles, FBI checks, state-by-state guide
- Ecuadorians: From Ecuador or from USA
- Indians: Apostille from MEA + UAE attestation chain
- Filipinos, Pakistanis, and other nationalities
- Document freshness requirements
- Costs and timelines
- When things go wrong
Understanding Apostille and Attestation for UAE
The UAE is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. This is a crucial fact that affects how all foreign documents are processed for use in the Emirates.
From Hague Countries
Documents from USA, UK, India, Australia, etc.:
From Non-Hague Countries
Documents from Pakistan, Egypt, etc.:
Important Clarification
An apostille from a Hague-member country simplifies the first step of authentication — it replaces notarisation and home country foreign ministry attestation in one step. However, it does NOT eliminate the need for UAE Embassy attestation and MOFA attestation.
Always confirm requirements with your specific employer's PRO (Public Relations Officer) or the government entity you're dealing with BEFORE starting the attestation process.
Quick Decision Flowchart
What Documents Do You Actually Need?
Employment Visa
- University Degree / Diploma
- Police Clearance Certificate
- Professional License (if applicable)
- Experience Letter (sometimes)
Family Visa
- Marriage Certificate
- Birth Certificates (children)
- Sponsor's salary certificate
- Tenancy contract
Golden Visa
- Degree + MOE Equivalency
- OR Investment proof
- OR Professional achievements
- Police clearance
Marriage in UAE
- Birth Certificates (both)
- Single Status Certificate
- Passport copies
- Divorce decree (if applicable)
🇺🇸 US Citizens: Complete Guide
As an American, you benefit from the Hague Convention. Your documents follow the simplified path—but there are important details to get right.
The Process for US Documents
Where to Get Your Apostille
State-Level Apostilles
From your State Secretary of State:
- Birth certificates (state where born)
- Marriage certificates (state where married)
- Divorce decrees (state where finalized)
- University degrees (state where school is located)
- State-issued professional licenses
- Notarized documents
Federal Apostilles
From the US Department of State in Washington, D.C.:
- FBI background checks
- Federal court documents
- Documents notarized by federal officials
- US military records
- Patent and trademark documents
State Apostille Processing Times & Costs
| State | Processing Time | Cost | Walk-in Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 2-3 weeks | $20 | Yes (Sacramento) |
| Texas | 5-7 business days | $15 | Yes (Austin) |
| New York | 1-2 weeks | $10 | Yes (Albany) |
| Florida | 3-5 business days | $10 | Yes (Tallahassee) |
| Illinois | 1-2 weeks | $2 | No |
| New Jersey | 2-3 weeks | $25 | Yes (Trenton) |
The FBI Background Check Process (The Bottleneck)
This is where most people's timelines fall apart. The FBI check is required for employment visas and takes significantly longer than other documents.
Get Fingerprinted
Visit an FBI-approved channeler (Identogo, Fieldprint) or your local police station. You need fingerprints on the FD-258 card format.
Submit to FBI
By mail: 12-14 weeks. Through approved channeler: 3-5 days. The channeler route costs more ($50-100) but saves months.
Federal Apostille (THE Bottleneck)
FBI reports need apostille from the US Department of State Office of Authentications. This takes 4-6 weeks and CANNOT be expedited.
Important: Channelers can only get the FBI check itself—not the apostille. The apostille must still go through the Department of State.
UAE MOFA + Translation
Once in Dubai: MOFA attestation (1-3 days) and MOJ Arabic translation (same day).
FBI Check Validity Warning
UAE immigration typically accepts FBI checks only for 3-6 months after issuance. Don't start too early or too late:
- Too early: Document expires before visa processes
- Too late: You miss your start date
Plan to have your apostilled FBI check ready 2-3 months before your intended UAE arrival.
🇪🇨 Ecuadorians: Complete Guide
Ecuador has been a Hague Convention member since 2005, making the process relatively straightforward. However, there are important differences depending on whether you're coming from Ecuador or from the USA.
Scenario 1: Ecuadorians Moving from Ecuador
Applies to: Citizens currently in Ecuador with Ecuadorian documents
Obtain Original Documents
- Birth/Marriage Certificates: From Registro Civil (Civil Registry)
- University Degrees: May need SENESCYT verification for professional degrees
- Police Clearance: From Ministerio del Interior
Get Apostille from MFA Ecuador
Submit to Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y Movilidad Humana (MFA) in Quito or regional offices.
- Request: Apostilla de la Haya
- Cost: $10-20 USD per document
- Time: 1-3 days in person
UAE MOFA Attestation
Once in Dubai, submit apostilled documents to MOFA. Even with Hague apostille, UAE often requires local MOFA stamp for digital system entry.
Arabic Translation (MOJ Certified)
Your Spanish documents must be translated by a UAE Ministry of Justice certified translator in Dubai.
Tip: Do NOT translate in Ecuador. UAE authorities prefer translations done locally after attestation is complete.
Scenario 2: Ecuadorians Living in the USA
Complexity Warning: You likely have documents from BOTH countries
If you're an Ecuadorian citizen living in the US (Miami, NYC, etc.) planning to move to Dubai, you need to process documents in their countries of origin.
Path A: Your US Documents
(e.g., Bachelor's Degree from Florida)
You cannot attest a US degree in Ecuador. Follow US regulations:
- Request certified copy from university
- Get notarized if required by your state
- Submit to Secretary of State in the state where degree was issued
- Bring apostilled degree to Dubai → MOFA
Path B: Your Ecuadorian Documents
(e.g., Birth Certificate from Guayaquil)
You generally cannot apostille an Ecuadorian birth certificate inside the USA.
The Problem: Ecuadorian Consulates in the US can issue document copies, but they cannot issue the Hague Apostille (that authority resides with MFA in Ecuador).
Solutions:
- Order new document from Registro Civil Ecuador online
- Have family/agency in Ecuador get the apostille
- Courier apostilled document to you (or directly to Dubai)
Ecuador Document Resources
Ecuador Summary Checklist
| Document | Issued In | Verification Needed | Where to Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Degree | USA | US Apostille | Secretary of State (USA) |
| University Degree | Ecuador | SENESCYT + Ecuador Apostille | MFA (Ecuador) |
| Birth Certificate | Ecuador | Ecuador Apostille | MFA (Ecuador) |
| Marriage Certificate | Ecuador | Ecuador Apostille | MFA (Ecuador) |
| FBI Check | USA | Federal Apostille | Dept of State (DC) |
| Ecuador Police Clearance | Ecuador | Ecuador Apostille | MFA (Ecuador) |
🇮🇳 Indians: Apostille + UAE Attestation Chain
India IS a Hague Convention Member (Since July 2005)
India joined the Hague Apostille Convention in July 2005. This means Indian documents can receive an apostille from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), simplifying the first step. However, since UAE is not a Hague member, additional attestation is still required.
The Process for Indian Documents (for UAE Use)
Apostille from MEA
Get your document apostilled by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This can be done through MEA regional offices or authorized agents. The apostille replaces the old notarisation → state attestation chain.
UAE Embassy Attestation
Submit apostilled document to UAE Embassy in India (Delhi, Mumbai, or through VFS Global India). This step is required because UAE is not a Hague member.
UAE MOFA + Translation
Once in Dubai: MOFA attestation validates the UAE Embassy sticker, then MOJ Arabic translation.
If You're an Indian Living in the USA
The Practical Challenge
If you're in the US and your Indian documents are in India, you'll likely need:
- Family members in India to get MEA apostille + UAE Embassy attestation
- OR use a professional attestation service in India
For US-Based Requirements:
- FBI background check: Required if you've lived in the US for 6+ months
- Indian PCC: Apply through CGHS portal at Indian Embassy/Consulate in the US
Pro Tip
Both Indian and US degrees follow similar paths for UAE use (apostille + UAE Embassy + MOFA). Choose whichever is easier to access based on where you are.
🇵🇭 Filipinos: Hague Member Since 2019
Good news for Filipino nationals: The Philippines joined the Hague Convention in 2019, simplifying the process significantly.
The Process for Philippine Documents
Obtain PSA Documents
Get documents from Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.
DFA Apostille
Department of Foreign Affairs issues apostilles. Philippine consulates abroad can also apostille some documents.
UAE MOFA + Translation
Standard process once in Dubai.
Special Considerations for Filipinos
- DMW Requirements: If going to Dubai for work, you may need OFW processing through the Department of Migrant Workers (formerly POEA)
- NBI Clearance: Required from the Philippines. Can be applied for at Philippine consulates abroad.
- FBI Clearance: Also required if you've lived in the US for 6+ months
- TESDA/CHED: Professional and educational credentials may need verification
🇵🇰 Pakistanis: Full Chain Required
Pakistan is NOT a Hague Member
Full attestation chain required for all Pakistani documents.
The Process for Pakistani Documents
- Notarization in Pakistan
- HEC attestation (for educational documents)
- MOFA Pakistan attestation
- UAE Embassy in Pakistan attestation
- Bring to UAE → MOFA UAE → Arabic translation
Key Documents
- Birth Certificate: NADRA B-Form or Birth Certificate
- Marriage: Nikah Nama (must be attested through full chain)
- Education: HEC-attested degrees
- Police Clearance: Character Certificate from police
Other Nationalities: Quick Reference
| Country | Hague Member? | Year Joined | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇮🇳 India | ✅ Yes | 2005 | MEA apostille. For UAE: apostille + UAE Embassy + MOFA still required. |
| 🇲🇽 Mexico | ✅ Yes | 1995 | SRE apostille. Consulates in US can help. |
| 🇧🇷 Brazil | ✅ Yes | 2016 | Cartório apostille. Federal PCC from Polícia Federal. |
| 🇨🇴 Colombia | ✅ Yes | 2001 | Cancillería apostille. Consulates can assist. |
| 🇻🇪 Venezuela | ✅ Yes | 1999 | Apostille from Cancillería. Current situation may complicate access. |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ✅ Yes | 2024 | New member (Jan 2024). Global Affairs Canada issues apostilles. |
| 🇨🇳 China | ✅ Yes | 2023 | Recent member. Provincial notary offices issue apostilles. |
| 🇧🇩 Bangladesh | ✅ Yes | 2025 | New member (March 2025). For UAE: apostille + UAE Embassy + MOFA still required. |
| 🇳🇬 Nigeria | ❌ No | — | Full attestation chain required. NYSC for graduates. |
| 🇪🇬 Egypt | ❌ No | — | Full attestation: Notary → MOFA Egypt → UAE Embassy Cairo |
| 🇯🇴 Jordan | ❌ No | — | Full attestation. Arabic docs still need MOJ translation. |
| 🇱🇧 Lebanon | ❌ No | — | Full attestation: Notary → MOFA Lebanon → UAE Embassy Beirut |
Document Freshness Requirements
Some UAE entities require documents issued within a certain timeframe. This is critical for planning.
| Document Type | Freshness Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Police Clearance (FBI, etc.) | 3-6 months | Most critical. Don't get too early! |
| Medical Certificates | 30-90 days | Usually done in UAE anyway |
| Bank Statements | 3 months | For financial proof |
| Salary Certificates | 30-60 days | For family sponsorship |
| Birth Certificate | No expiry | Original valid forever |
| Marriage Certificate | No expiry | Original valid forever |
| University Degree | No expiry | Original valid forever |
UAE MOFA: Digital Services (2024)
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has modernized significantly. Key updates:
MOFA Attestation Details
Digital Verification
MOFA now issues QR-coded attestations for instant digital verification. Government and private entities can scan the code to verify authenticity—a major improvement from the old system.
Online Services
Online appointment booking available. Some attestations can be initiated via UAE government apps.
Degree Equivalency: When Attestation Isn't Enough
For certain purposes, having an apostilled/attested degree isn't sufficient. You also need MOE Equivalency.
When You Need MOE Equivalency
- Golden Visa (if based on educational qualifications)
- Regulated professions: Doctors, engineers, teachers, nurses, lawyers
- Some government jobs
- PhD or specialized academic positions
What it is: The UAE Ministry of Education evaluates whether your foreign degree is equivalent to a UAE qualification.
Timeline: 2-4 weeks additional processing
Requirement: Your degree must first be fully attested before applying for equivalency.
VFS Global: When You Need Embassy Attestation
If you're from a non-Hague country, or if your UAE entity still requires Embassy attestation, you likely won't go to the embassy directly. The UAE outsources this to VFS Global.
VFS Global Details
VFS Global accepts documents by mail, provides online tracking, and returns your attested documents via courier. No need to visit Washington, D.C. in person.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Translating Before Attestation
The translator needs to translate the stamps on the back of the document. If you translate first, you'll have to redo it after attestation. Always translate last.
Bundling Documents
Don't staple documents together (Degree + Transcript) to save money. UAE treats them as separate legal entities. Attest each document separately.
Getting Police Check Too Early
FBI checks are valid only 3-6 months. If your visa takes longer to process, you start over. Time it carefully.
Assuming Apostille = Done
Even with Hague apostille, you often still need UAE MOFA attestation. Don't skip this step.
Not Confirming Requirements
Different free zones and companies have different requirements. Always confirm with YOUR employer's PRO before starting.
Wrong Apostille Authority
FBI checks need FEDERAL apostille (US Dept of State), not state-level. States cannot apostille FBI documents.
When Things Go Wrong
Document Rejected?
- Check the reason: Ask specifically what's wrong (missing stamp, expired, wrong attestation chain)
- Verify the chain: Make sure you followed the correct sequence for your document's country of origin
- Check validity: Police checks and some documents expire—you may need to start over
Running Out of Time?
- Express options: Most steps have express/rush options (MOFA same-day, VFS 24-48 hours)
- Third-party services: Attestation agencies can handle multiple steps simultaneously
- Request extension: Talk to your employer's PRO about extending your start date
Can't Access Home Country Documents?
- Consulates: Some documents can be obtained through consulates abroad
- Family/agents: Have someone in your home country process on your behalf
- Online portals: Many countries now offer online document ordering (Ecuador, Philippines, India)
Complete Cost Summary
Complete Timeline Summary
| Step | Standard Time | Express Available? |
|---|---|---|
| US State Apostille | 3 days - 3 weeks | Yes (varies by state) |
| US Federal Apostille (FBI) | 4-6 weeks | ❌ NO |
| Ecuador Apostille | 1-3 days | Yes (in person) |
| VFS Global / Embassy | 3-5 business days | Yes (24-48 hours) |
| UAE MOFA | 1-3 business days | Yes (same day) |
| Arabic Translation | Same day - 24 hours | Yes (1 hour rush) |
Realistic Total Timelines
- Standard documents (Hague country): 2-3 weeks
- Standard documents (Non-Hague): 3-4 weeks
- With FBI background check: 8-10 weeks (plan ahead!)
We Handle the UAE Side
Once your documents arrive in Dubai with proper apostille/attestation, we take care of the rest:
- MOFA Attestation: Submission, tracking, collection
- MOJ Translation: Certified Arabic translation (60-minute first draft)
- Pickup & Delivery: We come to you
- Express Options: Same-day when you need it
No office visits, no waiting in lines, no navigating UAE bureaucracy. Send us your documents via WhatsApp, and we handle everything from there.
Questions About Your Documents?
Every situation is different—especially for third-country nationals or complex cases. Not sure what your specific documents need? Reach out for a free consultation.
WhatsApp Us Get a Quote+971 50 862 0217
info@onlinetranslation.ae
Disclaimer: This guide reflects the standard process as of December 2024. Requirements can vary by specific visa category, free zone, employer, and document type. The UAE's implementation of the Hague Convention is still evolving, and some entities may have different requirements. Always confirm with the relevant authority or your employer's PRO before starting the attestation process.