If you are thinking of moving to the UAE for work, returning after studying within the UK, or for legal reasons providing documentation, then it is highly likely that you will need to follow a multi-step process. As discussed in our article on embassy legalisation, some countries require more than just an apostille. Due to the UAE not being part of the 1961 Hague Convention, you will also need to send your documents to the UAE embassy in London for embassy legalisation. Read on for an overview on legalisation for the UAE.
Legalisation for the UAE – Document Preparation
It is important to note that documents from outside of the UK and British Overseas Territories are not eligible for legalisation at the UAE embassy in London. The UAE embassy also does not accept bundles. This means the notary public or solicitor who prepares your documents must certify each document individually.
In most cases, documents must first be verified to be authentic by either a solicitor or a public notary. If you are unsure of requirements, we would suggest that you check with the company/persons that are requesting the documentation. We are able to assist with a solicitor and notary service. We would ask that you send us any instructions you have from your receiving party. The next step, following authentication, is to get the documents in question apostilled. An Apostille essentially functions as an international legal certificate that verifies the authenticity of a document for use abroad. Once you have successfully received an apostille certificate from the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in the UK, you will be able to take the document to the UAE embassy for legalisation.
Document Submission
The UAE embassy will require supporting documentation:
- Proof of address (gas/electricity bill in your name, council tax bill, etc)
- Proof of identity (normally passport or UK drivers licence)
At Pardus Bloom, we are able to take care of this whole process for you. We offer an express service for urgent documentation. This can be completed same day, provided we have the documentation by 11am. We also offer a standard service which takes around 7-10 days. For both services we can arrange couriers to collect and return the documents at your convenience.