True Copy Attestation for Immigration, Visa & PR Applications in the UAE: A Complete Guide
When applying for immigration, visas, or permanent residency (PR) from the UAE, one crucial step that many applicants overlook is the submission of attested true copies of essential documents. Instead of handing over original documents, immigration authorities worldwide typically require certified true copy attestation in Dubai or other Emirates to verify that the submitted copies are authentic and identical to the originals. This process, known as true copy attestation, plays a crucial role in ensuring your application is accepted and processed smoothly.
What Is True Copy Attestation?
In the UAE, true copy attestation is a legal certification process whereby a licensed professional, such as a notary public, a lawyer, or a commissioner for oaths, certifies that a photocopy of your document is a true, exact, and complete reproduction of the original. It is important to note that this process does not authenticate the original document itself. Instead, it confirms that the copy is identical in every detail to the original, word-for-word and seal-for-seal.
For immigration, visa, or PR applications, many countries will reject uncertified photocopies to prevent fraud and maintain document integrity. Therefore, having your copies attested as “certified true copies” is a mandatory step.
Why Is True Copy Attestation Required for Immigration, Visa & PR?
Immigration and visa authorities outside the UAE insist on a true copy attestation to:
- Prevent fraud by verifying that the copies are exact matches to the originals.
- Protect your original documents from being lost, damaged, or misplaced during the application process.
- Comply with official regulations, as many countries explicitly require certified true copies for key documents.
For example, applicants applying for Canadian PR need certified true copies of passports, birth certificates, and educational documents. Similarly, Australian skilled migration visas often require attested copies of marriage certificates, police clearance certificates, and employment letters.
Common Documents Requiring True Copy Attestation in the UAE
If you reside in the UAE and are applying abroad for immigration, visa, or PR, the following documents typically require true copy attestation in Dubai:
- Passport pages (especially identity and visa pages)
- Emirates ID
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Educational degrees and transcripts
- Police clearance certificates issued in the UAE
- Employment contracts or experience letters
- Financial statements or proof of funds
Who Can Certify a True Copy in the UAE?
In the UAE, true copy certification can only be performed by authorised personnel, including:
- Notary Public: Available at official notary offices in Dubai and other Emirates.
- Licensed UAE Lawyers: Lawyers authorised to provide attestation services.
- Commissioners for Oaths: Officials appointed by government authorities.
- Consulates and Embassies: Often certify documents for use in the applicant’s home country.
In some cases, once the copy is certified by one of these authorities, further legalisation may be required. For instance, the attested document might need additional stamping by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) or the consulate of the destination country to be accepted abroad.
The True Copy Attestation Process in the UAE
The process to get your documents attested as true copies is straightforward but must be followed carefully:
- Prepare Original Documents: Ensure your originals are valid, complete, and in good condition.
- Make Clear Photocopies: The copies must be clear, with all text, stamps, and seals fully legible.
- Visit an Authorised Certifier: Bring both the original and a photocopy to a notary public, lawyer, or commissioner for oaths.
- Verification and Certification: The certifier compares the original and copy side-by-side, then stamps and signs the photocopy with a statement such as “Certified True Copy of the Original.”
- Additional Legalisation (If Needed): If the destination country requires it, get the attested copies further legalized by the MOFA or the relevant consulates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Getting attestation from unauthorised persons who are not recognised by the UAE authorities.
- Using unclear photocopies that make important details unreadable.
- Forgetting additional MOFA or consulate legalization when the destination country mandates it.
- Submitting uncertified copies, assuming they will be accepted.
- Not certifying all pages of multi-page documents.
Final Thoughts
For UAE residents applying for immigration, visas, or PR abroad, true copy attestation is an essential compliance step. It protects your valuable original documents while meeting the stringent verification standards of foreign authorities. By understanding the UAE-specific attestation process and working with authorised certifiers, you can avoid delays and ensure your application is processed smoothly. Always plan to complete true copy attestation early in your application journey, keeping your timeline on track and your documents secure.
