Introduction
For individuals looking to work or pursue further studies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), getting their foreign qualifications verified is an essential step. If you’ve earned a degree from a UK university, the process of UK degree attestation for UAE can seem complicated at first glance. However, with the right guidance and understanding of the process, you can easily navigate through it.
This guide will provide you with all the information you need about UK degree attestation for the UAE in 2025, including the steps involved, the documents required, and the best practices to ensure a hassle-free experience.
What is Degree Attestation and Why is It Important?
Degree attestation is the process of verifying the authenticity of your academic qualifications by official authorities in the country where your degree was awarded. In this case, if you completed your degree in the UK and plan to use it in the UAE whether for employment or further education it must be officially recognized by the UAE government.
The attestation process validates that your degree is legitimate and meets the standards set by the UAE Ministry of Education. It also assures employers and educational institutions in the UAE that the credentials are genuine, making it a vital part of the application process for work permits, visas, and university admissions.
The Process of UK Degree Attestation for UAE
Getting your UK degree attested for use in the UAE involves a series of steps that must be followed in the correct order. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
1. Notary Attestation
The first step is to get your degree notarized. A notary public is an authorized official who verifies the authenticity of your degree and ensures it is legally valid for attestation. You will need to take your original degree certificate along with a copy to a registered notary in the UK.
Documents Required:
- Original degree certificate
- Copy of the degree certificate
- Passport or ID as proof of identity
Once the notary has verified the documents, they will stamp and sign them, confirming their authenticity.
2. UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Attestation
After notary attestation, your degree must be attested by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). The FCO is responsible for authenticating documents that are intended for use in foreign countries, including the UAE. The attestation from the FCO is crucial because it verifies that the notary signature is valid.
Documents Required:
- Notarized degree certificate
- FCO application form
You can apply for FCO attestation online or through an authorized service provider, and the process usually takes around 3-5 working days.
3. UAE Embassy Attestation in the UK
Once the FCO has attested your degree, the next step is to get it attested by the UAE Embassy in the UK. The embassy confirms that the degree is authentic and that all prior attestations have been carried out properly. This step is essential before you can submit the document to the UAE government.
Documents Required:
- FCO-attested degree certificate
- Valid passport copy
- Visa or application for residence in the UAE (if applicable)
The UAE Embassy will affix their stamp and seal on your degree, validating it for use in the UAE. This process may take around 2-3 weeks.
4. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Attestation in the UAE
After your degree has been attested by the UAE Embassy in the UK, the next step is to get your documents authenticated by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). MOFA attestation serves as the final step in the process, ensuring that your degree is legally recognized in the UAE for work or study purposes.
Documents Required:
- UAE Embassy-attested degree certificate
- Original passport
- Any relevant visa or employment application
This process can take a few days, depending on the number of documents being processed. After the attestation, your degree is officially recognized by the UAE government.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While the degree attestation process can be straightforward, there are some common mistakes applicants often make. Avoiding these can save you time and frustration:
- Missing Documents: Ensure you have all the required documents before starting the process. Missing paperwork can delay the entire process and cause unnecessary complications.
- Incorrect Notary: Make sure the notary public is authorized to attest documents for international use. Using an unofficial notary will invalidate your documents and may require you to restart the process.
- Not Following the Correct Order: The attestation process must follow a specific order, starting with the notary, followed by the FCO, the UAE Embassy, and finally, MOFA. Skipping any steps can result in delays and complications.
- Delays in Processing: Each of the attestation steps can take time. Be sure to plan ahead and account for any delays, especially during peak times, such as the start of academic terms or public holidays.
Time and Cost of Degree Attestation
The time and cost for UK degree attestation for UAE can vary depending on the specific service providers, the complexity of your case, and the processing times at different stages. On average, the entire process can take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks.
1. Time Required:
- Notary attestation: 1-2 days
- FCO attestation: 3-5 working days
- UAE Embassy attestation: 2-3 weeks
- MOFA attestation: A few days
2. Costs:
- The cost of degree attestation generally includes charges for each step (notary, FCO, embassy, and MOFA). On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between £200 to £600, depending on the level of service and urgency required.
If you opt for an attestation agency, they may charge additional service fees for handling the documentation on your behalf.
Conclusion
Attesting your UK degree for use in the UAE is a vital process for anyone looking to work or study in the country. While the process may seem complicated, breaking it down into clear steps—from notary attestation to MOFA verification—ensures that your degree is recognized and accepted in the UAE.
By following the steps outlined in this guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can streamline the process and ensure that your UK degree is authenticated efficiently.
Whether you’re aiming to secure a job in the UAE or pursue further education, having your degree attested is the first and most important step. Make sure to plan ahead, gather all necessary documents, and choose the right service providers to get your degree attested with minimal hassle.
