What Does Apostille Mean?

Apostille is a distinctive certification used to verify the authenticity of public documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or academic transcripts, for international use. The Apostille process was established by the Hague Convention of 1961, an international treaty simplifying the legalization of documents for cross-border use. This specific type of authentication is recognized by all countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention.

What is Apostille Attestation?

Apostille Attestation is the process of validating public documents for international use. In contrast to the use of Apostille for documents intended for use in the UAE, certificates must undergo authentication and legalization. This process involves validating the document by the designated authority in the country of issuance, legalizing the document through the embassy or consulate of the country where it will be used, and finally, attesting the document through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of that country. This process is necessary for countries not signatory to the Hague Convention and not recognizing Apostille certifications.

Why is Apostille Attestation Required in the UAE?

The UAE’s diverse and multicultural community attracts expatriates, students, and business professionals, making certificate attestation mandatory for those relocating or visiting for employment or education. As the UAE is not a Hague Convention member, it does not acknowledge Apostille certifications. Instead, official documents must undergo Apostille Attestation or Embassy Legalization, involving certification by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the designated authority in the document’s country of issuance.

For instance, if a UK national wishes to use UK-issued documents in the UAE, they must obtain an Apostille from the FCDO in the UK and Attestation from the UAE Embassy in London.

The terms “legalization” and “document attestation” refer to the same process of certifying the authenticity of official documents. Apostille Attestation ensures recognition and acceptance of official records by UAE authorities for legal and administrative purposes.

Which Documents Require Apostille Attestation?

Apostille legalization is compulsory for various educational certificates, personal documents, and commercial certificates, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, degree certificates, divorce certificates, special powers of attorney, transcripts, commercial certificates, and employment certificates.

Alternatively, numerous private companies in Dubai offer apostille services for a fee. Companies like Benchmark Attestation Services can efficiently assist in obtaining an apostille for your documents. Opting for a reputable and reliable company ensures the proper handling of your documents, returning them safely upon completing the Apostille Attestation process.

Why Choose Us for Apostille Services in Dubai?

We specialize in Apostille Services in Dubai, possessing expertise in attesting various documents and expediting the process. With years of experience assisting individuals relocating to or visiting the UAE, we’ve built a strong reputation in the industry. Our team ensures the careful handling of your confidential documents, returning them securely after completing the Apostille Attestation process