Attestation and legalization of documents are often required when using documents issued in one country in another country. There are two main methods of attestation – embassy attestation and apostille attestation. Understanding the difference between these two methods is important when getting your documents attested for use internationally.
What is Embassy Attestation?
Embassy attestation, also known as consular attestation, is the process of getting documents attested by the embassy or consulate of the country where you intend to use the documents. It verifies that the document is genuine and confirms its authenticity.
The process involves:
- Getting the document notarized in the country of origin
- Authentication of the document by the Ministry of External Affairs in the issuing country
- Attestation by the embassy/consulate of the destination country
Embassy attestation is required when the destination country is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. The UAE does not accept apostille attestation, so embassy attestation is required for documents to be used in the UAE.
What is Apostille Attestation?
Apostille attestation is the authentication of documents as per the Hague Convention of 1961. Over 100 member countries recognize apostille certificates.
The process involves:
- Notarization of the document in the country of origin
- Verification by the designated Competent Authority in the issuing country
- Issuing of the apostille certificate that is attached/affixed to the original document
The apostille certificate verifies the authenticity of the signature, seal, and stamp on the document.
Key Differences between Embassy & Apostille Attestation
- Apostille attestation is only applicable for countries that are members of the Hague Convention. The UAE is not a member, so embassy attestation is required.
- Embassy attestation involves getting the document attested directly by the embassy/consulate. Apostille does not require embassy involvement.
- Apostille certification is issued as a separate certificate attached to the document. Embassy attestation is a stamp/seal applied directly on the original document.
- Apostille attestation has standardized fields and can be understood globally. Embassy attestation varies in format depending on the embassy requirements.
- The apostille process tends to be faster compared to embassy legalization as it avoids embassy procedures.
Which is Better - Embassy or Apostille?
For documents to be used in the UAE, embassy attestation is better and required as the UAE does not recognize apostille certificates.
If your document is for a country that accepts apostille, that process may be preferable as it can be faster and more straightforward than embassy legalization.
Do I Need Both Embassy & Apostille?
No, you do not need both embassy and apostille attestation done for the same document. It depends on the destination country requirements. For the UAE, only embassy attestation is required and accepted.
Attestation Process for the UAE
The attestation process for documents to be used in the UAE involves:
- Notarization of the document in the country of origin
- MEA/HRD attestation in the issuing country
- Embassy attestation by the UAE embassy/consulate
- MOFA attestation in the UAE
- Attestation by relevant UAE authorities (e.g. MOE for education certificates)
The process can be complex, so it is advisable to work with an experienced attestation agency like Globoprime Attestation Services for a smooth and hassle-free attestation process. Their expertise can save you time and effort while ensuring properly attested documents for use in the UAE.
Documents Required for UAE Embassy Attestation
When getting embassy attestation done by the UAE embassy/consulate, you will need to submit certain documents along with the originals to be attested. The requirements may vary slightly depending on the type of document but generally include:
- Original document to be attested (e.g. degree certificate, birth certificate etc.)
- Photocopy of the document
- Passport copy
- Additional supporting documents (e.g. marksheets for education certificates)
- Embassy attestation application form
- Attestation fees
- Any other documents specified by the UAE embassy for that document type
It is important to check the UAE embassy website or consult an attestation agent to know the exact document requirements when applying for UAE embassy attestation.
Timeframe for UAE Embassy Attestation
The time taken for embassy attestation for the UAE can vary from 7 to 30 days on average depending on:
- Country where the document was issued
- Type of document
- workload at the embassy/consulate
- efficiency of the attestation agents
Attestation for countries like India and Philippines generally is faster compared to some other countries.
Using an efficient attestation service instead of applying directly can help speed up the process significantly. The right agent will be familiar with the process and can assist avoid any delays or rejections.
Why Choose Globoprime for UAE Attestation?
Globoprime Attestation Services is a renowned agency for embassy attestation for the UAE and other countries. Some key benefits of choosing Globoprime:
- High success rate and quality attestation service
- Network of agents in several countries for smooth processing
- Transparent processes and online document tracking
- Save time with pickup and delivery options
- Expert assistance for any type of certificate or document
- Cost-effective packages to suit every budget
To get your documents smoothly and quickly attested for use in the UAE, trust the experts at Globoprime Attestation Services. Call 09962650280 |sales@globoprime.com