Getting Your Degree Certificate Attested by the Indian Consulate in Dubai

So, you're in Dubai, you've landed a job or are planning further studies, and suddenly you're told you need your Indian degree certificate "attested by the Indian Consulate." If that sounds like a mouthful, don't worry. This guide will walk you through exactly what that means and how to get it done without pulling your hair out.

The short answer is: you need this attestation for most official purposes in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), such as applying for a work visa, residency permit, or even for higher education. It's basically the Indian government confirming that your degree is legitimate, and then the UAE government confirming that they recognize the Indian government's stamp.

What Does "Attestation by the Indian Consulate" Actually Mean?

Think of attestation as a multi-layered verification process. Before the Indian Consulate in Dubai will put its stamp on your degree, it needs to be verified by authorities back in India. Only then will the consulate in Dubai confirm that all those prior stamps are genuine and that the document is ready for use in the UAE.

The Crucial Pre-Dubai Attestation Steps in India

This is where many people get stuck, so listen up. You cannot directly attest your degree at the Indian Consulate in Dubai if it hasn't gone through the proper channels back home first. This is the most common reason for rejection.

Here's the mandatory sequence of attestations before you even think about the Dubai consulate:

1. University Verification: Your degree certificate must first be verified by the issuing university or institution. This often involves their seal and signature on the back of the certificate or an accompanying verification letter. This step is sometimes skipped if the HRD/State department directly verifies with the university, but it's good practice to check if your university offers this.
2. State Level Attestation (HRD/GAD):
   • Human Resource Department (HRD) Attestation: For educational documents, this is usually the first official government attestation. Your degree needs to be attested by the HRD of the state from which it was issued. For example, if your university is in Maharashtra, you'd need HRD attestation from the Maharashtra government.
   • General Administration Department (GAD): In some states, the GAD handles this.
   • Important: This step can be time-consuming, and some states have specific procedures. You might need to visit the state capital or use an authorized agent in India.
3. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Attestation:
   • Once your degree has the HRD/GAD stamp, it then goes to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India. The MEA is the final authority for authenticating documents issued in India for use abroad.
   • The MEA does not accept direct applications from individuals. You must apply through one of their authorized outsourcing agencies. You can find a list of these agencies on the MEA's website.

In short: University → State HRD/GAD → MEA. Only after these three steps are complete is your document ready for the Indian Consulate in Dubai.

Documents You'll Need (Originals and Copies!)

Gathering these beforehand will save you a lot of hassle. Make sure you have original certificates and multiple clear photocopies of everything.

• Original Degree Certificate: This is the main document. It must have all the prior attestations (HRD/GAD, MEA) on its reverse side.
• Original Mark Sheets/Transcripts: While the degree certificate is primary, sometimes mark sheets are also requested, especially for detailed verification. Get them attested if unsure.
• Original Passport: Your Indian passport.
• Photocopy of Passport: Front and back pages, and the visa page if you have a UAE visa.
• Photocopy of Visa/Emirates ID (if applicable): If you already have a UAE visa or Emirates ID, provide a copy.
• Application Form: The specific attestation application form from BLS International, the authorized service provider for the Indian Consulate.
• Passport-sized Photographs: Usually 2-4 photos.
• Authorization Letter (if using an agent): If someone else is submitting on your behalf in Dubai (e.g., a family member or a PRO service), they'll need an authorization letter from you.

The Attestation Process at the Indian Consulate in Dubai (via BLS International)

The Indian Consulate in Dubai does not directly accept attestation applications from individuals. They have outsourced this service to BLS International. You will submit your documents and collect them from a BLS center.

1. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure all the prerequisites (HRD, MEA attestation) are complete on your original degree. Make sure you have all the required photocopies and photographs.
2. Fill Out the BLS Application Form: Download the specific attestation application form from the BLS International website (for Dubai). Fill it out accurately.
3. Book an Appointment (Optional but Recommended): While sometimes walk-ins are accepted, it's highly recommended to book an appointment online via the BLS website to avoid long queues and potential delays.
4. Visit the BLS Center: Go to your chosen BLS International center in Dubai on your appointment date.
   • Submission: Present your application form, original degree certificate (with all prior attestations), passport, and all photocopies to the counter staff.
   • Verification: The staff will check your documents. If anything is missing or incorrect, they will inform you. This is why thorough preparation is key.
   • Fee Payment: Pay the required fees. This includes the Indian Consulate attestation fee and the BLS service charge.
   • Receipt: You will receive a receipt with a tracking number. Do not lose this receipt! You'll need it for collection.
5. Track Your Application: You can usually track the status of your application online using the tracking number provided on your receipt on the BLS website.
6. Collection: Once the status shows "Ready for Collection," return to the same BLS center with your original receipt to collect your attested degree certificate. Make sure to check the attestation stamp and signature on your certificate before leaving.

Fees and Processing Time

• Indian Consulate Attestation Fee: This is subject to change but is typically around AED 40-50 per document.
• BLS Service Charge: Expect an additional service charge, usually around AED 9-10 per application.
• Processing Time:
  • Typically, it takes 3-5 working days for the attestation to be completed once submitted at BLS.
  • However, delays can occur, especially if there are issues with prior attestations or during peak times. Always account for a buffer.

Important Tips and Potential Pitfalls

• Start Early: The entire attestation process, especially the India-based steps, can take weeks or even months. Do not wait until the last minute.
• Check All Prior Attestations: Double-check that your degree has the university verification (if applicable), HRD/GAD, and MEA stamps before coming to Dubai. A missing stamp will lead to rejection.
• Photocopies: Always carry more photocopies than you think you'll need. Better safe than sorry.
• Originals are Key: You must present the original degree certificate for attestation. No exceptions.
• Read BLS Website Carefully: The BLS International website for Dubai is your best friend. It has the latest forms, fees, and requirements. Requirements can change, so always check their site.
• Authorized Agents in India: If you're struggling with the HRD/MEA steps in India, consider using one of the MEA-authorized outsourcing agencies. They can streamline the process, but choose a reputable one.
• Verify the Stamp: When you collect your document, ensure the Indian Consulate's stamp and signature are clearly visible and correctly placed.
• Keep a Copy of the Attested Document: Once you receive your attested degree, make a few photocopies for your records before submitting it to any employer or institution.

What Happens After Indian Consulate Attestation? (The Next Step)

You're not quite done. After your degree certificate is attested by the Indian Consulate in Dubai, the next and final step for its validity in the UAE is attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) of the UAE.

• You can get this done at any MOFAIC customer happiness center in the UAE (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi).
• This step typically involves a fee per document and can often be done on the same day or within 1-2 working days.
• You will need your original attested degree and your Emirates ID/Passport.

Common Questions

• Can my family member submit my documents at BLS? Yes, usually with an authorization letter signed by you, along with copies of your passport and visa.
• Do I need to attest my mark sheets too? It's always a good idea to get your consolidated mark sheet attested by the MEA and then the Consulate if you're unsure, especially if your employer or university specifically requests it.
• What if I lost my original degree? You will need to get a duplicate degree from your university first and then restart the entire attestation process from scratch.
• Can I get my degree attested from the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi if I live in Dubai? Generally, it's advised to use the jurisdiction where you reside. For Dubai and the Northern Emirates, it's the Indian Consulate in Dubai (via BLS).

Final Thoughts

Getting your degree certificate attested can feel like navigating a bureaucratic maze, but by understanding the sequence of steps and preparing thoroughly, you can make it a smooth process. Remember: preparation in India is key to a successful attestation at the Indian Consulate in Dubai. Good luck!