Affidavit Legalization for Use in the UAE

An Affidavit is a sworn written statement used to formally declare facts, confirm authority, or verify business-related matters. When an Affidavit issued in the United States is intended for submission to authorities, banks, courts, or private entities in the United Arab Emirates, it must undergo a legalization process to confirm its authenticity. This ensures that the document is legally recognized and enforceable in the UAE.

When This Document is Required

Affidavits used in corporate or commercial contexts may be requested for:

• Confirming company ownership or shareholder details
  
  

• Declaring authorized representatives for business operations
  
  

• Supporting corporate bank account applications in the UAE
  
  

• Verifying statements for commercial contracts or tenders
  
  

• Confirming legal responsibilities or statements for regulatory compliance
  
  

• Establishing authority for signing agreements on behalf of the company
  
  

Legalization Process

The legalization process verifies the authenticity of the Affidavit and the authority of the person who signed it. The steps typically include:

1. Notarization
   The Affidavit must be signed in the presence of a commissioned notary public using a wet-ink signature. Online notarizations are generally not accepted.
   
   

2. State Certification
   The notarized document is certified by the Secretary of State in the state where the notarization occurred. This confirms the notary’s commission and authority.
   
   

3. U.S. Department of State Authentication (If Required)
   Corporate documents are usually accepted without federal authentication; however, applicants may request this step for additional verification.
   
   

4. UAE Embassy Legalization
   The document is reviewed and legalized by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Washington, D.C., confirming its validity for use in the UAE.
   
   

5. Final Attestation in the UAE (If Requested)
   Certain institutions in the UAE may require a final attestation from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
   
   

Why Legalization Is Necessary

Legalization ensures:

• Verification of the signer’s identity and authority
  
  

• Confirmation that the document is genuine and legally binding
  
  

• Recognition of the document by UAE government offices, banks, and private entities
  
  

• Prevention of fraud or unauthorized declarations in business matters
  
  

Without legalization, the Affidavit may be rejected by UAE authorities and institutions.

Processing Time

Processing times vary depending on the level of certification required and the workload of government agencies involved. Standard and expedited handling options may be available. Applicants should allow sufficient time for each step of review and authentication.

How We Assist

The UAE Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C. coordinates the complete legalization pathway for corporate Affidavits. Services include:

• Reviewing document format and notarization compliance
  
  

• Managing required state and federal certifications
  
  

• Submitting documents to the UAE Embassy for legalization
  
  

• Providing secure handling and courier support throughout the process
  
  

Our role is to ensure the document meets all regulatory requirements for successful acceptance in the United Arab Emirates.

FAQs

When is a corporate Affidavit typically required in the UAE?
Affidavits are commonly required when verifying company ownership, confirming authorized signatories, supporting banking applications, or submitting declarations for regulatory purposes.

Does the Affidavit require notarization before legalization?
Yes. The Affidavit must be signed in front of a commissioned notary public with a wet-ink signature. Online notarization is generally not accepted.

Is U.S. Department of State authentication always required?
No. Most corporate documents are accepted after state certification and UAE Embassy legalization. However, federal authentication can be added if requested.

Which UAE authority performs the final legalization?
The UAE Embassy in Washington, D.C. handles legalization in the United States. Some institutions may require final attestation in the UAE by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

How long does the legalization process take?
Processing time varies depending on state and embassy workloads, as well as whether federal authentication is requested.