Essential Guide: Death Certificate Attestation for Indian Nationals at Indian Embassy Abu Dhabi

Losing a loved one is incredibly difficult, and dealing with administrative tasks like death certificate attestation can feel overwhelming during such a sensitive time. If you're an Indian national in Abu Dhabi facing this situation, this guide is here to simplify the process for you. We'll walk you through each step, helping you understand what's needed to get a death certificate attested by the Indian Embassy, often facilitated through BLS International.

Why Attestation is Crucial

Attestation essentially verifies the authenticity of a document, making it legally valid for use in another country. For a death certificate issued in the UAE, attestation by the Indian Embassy Abu Dhabi is usually required for several critical reasons back in India, such as:

• Property Inheritance: To transfer assets or property in India.
• Insurance Claims: To process life insurance claims.
• Bank Account Closure: To close bank accounts or access funds.
• Pension and Provident Fund: For claiming benefits.
• Family Status Updates: For official records and other administrative purposes.

Without proper attestation, the death certificate issued in the UAE might not be accepted by authorities in India.

Required Documents for Attestation

Preparing your documents correctly is the first and most critical step. Ensure you have both originals and photocopies of everything. Here's a comprehensive list:

• Original Death Certificate: Issued by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) or other competent UAE authority. This must already be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFAIC).
• Original Deceased's Passport: If available.
• Copy of Deceased's Passport: Front and back pages, including visa page.
• Original Deceased's Emirates ID: If available.
• Copy of Deceased's Emirates ID: Front and back.
• Original Applicant's Passport: The person applying for attestation (usually a family member).
• Copy of Applicant's Passport: Front and back pages, including visa page.
• Original Applicant's Emirates ID:
• Copy of Applicant's Emirates ID: Front and back.
• Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate (if spouse), birth certificate (if child), or other official documents establishing the relationship between the applicant and the deceased.
• Letter of Authorization/Power of Attorney (if applicable): If someone other than an immediate family member is applying, they will need a notarized authorization letter from the next of kin.
• Application Form: The specific attestation form provided by BLS International (the outsourced agency for the Indian Embassy). You can usually download this from their website or fill it out at the center.

Crucial Note: All photocopies must be clear and legible. It's always a good idea to carry extra copies.

The Step-by-Step Attestation Process

The process involves two main stages: first within the UAE government, and then with the Indian diplomatic mission.

Step 1: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFAIC) Attestation

Before you can approach the Indian Embassy or BLS, the death certificate must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC). This confirms the authenticity of the local UAE authority's stamp and signature.

1. Obtain Death Certificate: Ensure you have the original death certificate issued by the relevant UAE health authority (e.g., MOHAP, usually after police reporting and medical examination).
2. MOFAIC Attestation: Take the original death certificate to a MOFAIC Customer Happiness Centre in Abu Dhabi. They will attest the document, usually for a fee. This can sometimes be done online or through designated typing centers, but for critical documents like death certificates, personal submission is often preferred.
   • Timeframe: Usually same-day service if submitted in person.
   • Cost: Varies, check the MOFAIC website or inquire at the center.

Step 2: BLS International Submission (on behalf of Indian Embassy)

Once your death certificate has the MOFAIC attestation, you can proceed to the Indian Embassy's outsourced service provider, BLS International. The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has designated BLS International for handling attestation services.

1. Visit BLS International Centre: Go to the BLS International Center in Abu Dhabi.
   • Location: Check the BLS International website for the exact address and operating hours.
   • Appointment: While not always mandatory for attestation, it's highly recommended to check the BLS website for any appointment requirements, especially during peak times.
2. Fill Application Form: Complete the attestation application form provided by BLS International. Ensure all details are accurate.
3. Submit Documents: Present all the required documents (originals and copies) as listed above to the BLS counter. The staff will verify your documents.
4. Pay Fees: Pay the applicable attestation fees to BLS International. These fees include the BLS service charge and the Indian Embassy's attestation fee.
   • Payment Method: Usually cash or card, confirm with BLS.
5. Collect Receipt: You will receive a receipt with a tracking number. Do not lose this receipt. It's essential for tracking your application and collecting the attested document.

What Happens Next

BLS International will forward your documents to the Indian Embassy for their official attestation. Once the Embassy completes the attestation, BLS will receive the documents back and notify you for collection.

Fees and Processing Time

• Attestation Fees:
  • MOFAIC Fee: Varies, typically around AED 150-200 per document.
  • Indian Embassy Fee: Currently, the fee for attestation of death certificates for Indian nationals is nominal, often around AED 40-50.
  • BLS Service Charge: An additional service charge, typically around AED 9-15, is levied by BLS International.
  • Total Cost: Expect a total cost of approximately AED 200-300 per document, but always verify current fees on the respective official websites.
• Processing Time:
  • MOFAIC: Usually same-day (in-person).
  • BLS/Indian Embassy: Typically 3-5 working days. This can vary depending on the volume of applications and any public holidays. BLS usually provides an estimated collection date on your receipt.

Practical Tips and Potential Pitfalls

• Originals vs. Copies: Always carry the original documents along with multiple sets of photocopies. While BLS usually returns originals after verification, some documents might be retained.
• Translations: If any document is in a language other than English or Arabic, it might need to be officially translated and attested before submission. Always check with BLS or the Embassy if unsure.
• Dealing with Delays: Sometimes, processing can take longer than expected. Remain patient and use your tracking number to check the status online via the BLS website. Avoid making multiple visits unless specifically requested.
• Checking Status: Use the tracking number provided on your BLS receipt to check the real-time status of your application on the BLS International website.
• Power of Attorney (POA): If the immediate family is not in the UAE, a representative can apply on their behalf with a valid, attested Power of Attorney from the next of kin. This POA itself might require attestation.
• Double-Check Everything: Before leaving the BLS counter, ensure all your documents are returned, and the attestation stamp and signature are clearly visible on the death certificate.
• Keep Records: Make copies of the attested death certificate for your personal records before sending the original to India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I send someone else to submit the documents for attestation? A1: Yes, a family member or an authorized representative can submit the documents, provided they have a valid authorization letter or Power of Attorney from the next of kin, along with their own original ID and a copy.

Q2: What if the deceased's passport or Emirates ID is not available? A2: Inform the BLS staff about this. They may guide you on alternative proofs or procedures. Sometimes, a police report stating the loss of documents might be required.

Q3: Do I need to attest the death certificate from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India as well? A3: No, once the death certificate is attested by the UAE MOFAIC and then by the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, it should be considered valid for use in India. The MEA in India handles documents issued in India for use abroad.

Q4: Can I apply directly at the Indian Embassy without going to BLS? A4: Generally, no. The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has outsourced these services to BLS International. All attestation applications must go through BLS.

Q5: What if the death occurred outside Abu Dhabi but still in the UAE? A5: The process remains similar. The death certificate must first be attested by the UAE MOFAIC, regardless of which Emirate it was issued in. Then you can submit it to BLS International in Abu Dhabi for Indian Embassy attestation.

Final Thoughts

Navigating bureaucracy during a time of grief is incredibly challenging. By understanding the process and preparing thoroughly, you can make the death certificate attestation smoother. Remember to be patient, meticulous with your documents, and don't hesitate to ask questions at the BLS International center if you're unsure about any step. Your focus should be on your family, and this guide aims to take some of the administrative burden off your shoulders.