How to Get Your Degree Certificate Attested for UAE in India: A Complete Guide

If you’re planning to work or pursue higher studies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), one of the most important steps you’ll need to complete is getting your degree certificate attested. Without proper attestation, your educational qualification may not be recognised by UAE authorities, whether you’re applying for an employment visa, seeking admission to a university, or applying for professional licensing.

This guide will explain what degree certificate attestation for UAE is, why it’s needed, and how you can get it done in India with minimal stress.

What is Degree Certificate Attestation?

Degree certificate attestation is a process that verifies the authenticity of your educational qualification issued in India, making it legally valid for use in the UAE. The process involves several levels of verification by authorities in India and the UAE.

Attestation is required when you’re applying for:

• Work visas in the UAE (especially for skilled jobs)
• Higher education admissions in UAE universities
• Changing your visa status (e.g., student to employment)
• Professional licence issuance (e.g., doctors, engineers, teachers)

Why is Degree Attestation Required for UAE?

UAE authorities require attested documents to ensure that foreign nationals are presenting genuine qualifications. With attestation:

• Employers can trust the educational background you present
• Universities can verify your eligibility
• Government departments can issue work or residence permits

Without attestation, even a valid degree from a top Indian university will not be accepted by the UAE Ministry of Education, Ministry of Labour, or other relevant departments.

Which Indian Degrees Need Attestation for UAE?

The attestation requirement applies to:

• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Master’s Degrees
• Diploma Courses (technical or professional)
• Ph.D.

Make sure the degree is from a recognised Indian university and is issued by a government-approved body.

Key Authorities Involved in Degree Certificate Attestation

Several Indian and UAE authorities are involved in the attestation process:

1. University/Board Verification – Initial verification from the institution that issued the certificate.
2. State HRD or SDM – State-level Human Resource Department or Sub-Divisional Magistrate attestation.
3. MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), Government of India – National-level attestation.
4. UAE Embassy/Consulate in India – Legalisation by UAE officials.
5. MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), UAE – Final acceptance in UAE (usually done after you arrive).

Step-by-Step Procedure to Get Degree Certificate Attested for UAE

Here’s how the process works in detail:

Step 1: University Verification

Before you begin the attestation process, many Indian universities require verification of the degree from the issuing institution. Some states won’t proceed without this step.

• Submit a copy of your degree and request form to the university.
• The university sends a sealed verification letter to HRD/SDM.

Step 2: HRD or SDM Attestation (State Level)

Depending on the state, either the HRD (Human Resource Department) or SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) will attest the degree.

• HRD attestation requires university verification
• Some states also require marksheets and ID proof
• Takes 5–10 working days

In some cases, SDM attestation is faster and accepted by UAE authorities as an alternative.

Step 3: MEA Attestation (Central Level)

Once the state-level attestation is done, the certificate is submitted to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India.

• MEA confirms the authenticity of the state seal
• Usually completed in 1–3 working days

You can’t approach MEA directly; it must be done via an authorised agent like Manav Consultants.

Step 4: UAE Embassy Attestation

After MEA attestation, the document goes to the UAE Embassy or Consulate in India.

• Embassy verifies the MEA stamp and legalises the document
• Some embassies may request a passport copy or visa details
• Takes 2–5 working days

Step 5: MOFA Attestation (Final Step in UAE)

Once you’re in the UAE, the final attestation is done by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), UAE.

• MOFA verifies the UAE Embassy stamp from India
• This makes the document officially valid in the UAE

Documents Required for Degree Attestation

• Original degree certificate
• Passport copy (self-attested)
• Visa copy (if available)
• Passport-size photographs
• Authorization letter (if done through an agent)
• Final year marksheet (some states may require)

How Long Does the Process Take?

The timeline depends on the state and embassy:

• University verification: 3–10 days
• HRD/SDM: 5–10 days
• MEA: 1–3 days
• UAE Embassy: 2–5 days
• MOFA (in UAE): 1–2 days

Total Time: Around 10 to 20 working days, but can be faster through experienced service providers.

Cost of Degree Certificate Attestation for UAE

The cost varies based on:

• The state from which the degree was issued
• Whether HRD or SDM is used
• Service charges by the agency
• Urgency (normal or express)

On average, the total cost can range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000, including all government and service fees.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting laminated certificates – Always remove the lamination before submission.
• Mismatch in name or spelling – Ensure consistency across passport, certificate, and forms.
• Using unverified agents – Only approach MEA-authorised agencies.
• Delaying the process – Start early, especially if applying for a visa or job.

Pro Tips for a Smoother Process:

Initiate University Verification IMMEDIATELY: This is often the slowest link, especially for older alumni.

Confirm University Type: Is it State or Central? This determines HRD vs. MoE route.

Check State HRD Procedures: Visit your state’s HRD website for specific forms, fees, and submission methods.

Use BLS/VFS Websites: They have detailed, updated checklists and jurisdiction information for MEA and UAE attestation.

Get Multiple Copies Attested: If you anticipate needing attested degrees for multiple purposes (e.g., visa and licensing), get 2-3 copies attested simultaneously. It’s more cost-effective than doing it later.

Translate Early if Needed: If translation is required, research certified translators approved by the UAE Embassy before you reach that stage.

Scan Everything: Keep high-quality scanned copies of every attested document and application form receipt for your records before submitting originals anywhere.

Why Choose an Attestation Service Like Manav Consultants?

The degree attestation process can be time-consuming and often confusing. A professional service like Manav Consultants can:

• Handle document pickup and delivery
• Coordinate with universities and government departments
• Ensure no step is missed
• Speed up processing time
• Provide real-time status updates

With presence in Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Chennai, and other cities, Manav Consultants makes degree attestation stress-free.

FAQs on Degree Attestation for UAE

Q. Is degree attestation mandatory for UAE?
Yes, without attestation, your educational certificate won’t be accepted for work or study in the UAE.

Q. Can I do degree attestation without being in India?
Yes, you can authorise someone or hire an agency to do it on your behalf.

Q. What if my certificate is damaged or laminated?
Lamination must be removed. Any damage should be resolved by getting a duplicate issued before attestation.

Q. Can I get attestation done on photocopies?
No, only original certificates are accepted for attestation.

Final Checklist Before You Start

• Is your certificate from a recognised Indian university?
• Have you checked the destination country’s specific rules?
• Do all your documents match your passport name?
• Have you planned enough time for processing?
• Are you using a verified agency?

Degree Certificate Attestation for UAE is a critical step in your migration or employment process. It validates your education and makes it legally acceptable in the UAE. While the process may seem complex, it’s completely manageable when broken down into steps or outsourced to professionals.

By starting early and working with an experienced attestation agency, you save time, reduce errors, and ensure peace of mind.

Whether you’re moving for your dream job, further studies, or family, don’t let documentation hold you back. Let Manav Consultants guide you through every step of your degree certificate attestation efficiently and securely.