Bringing your spouse to UAE requires submitting an attested marriage certificate as part of the family/dependent visa application. Without proper attestation, the UAE immigration will reject your application. This guide walks you through the complete process — especially for Kerala couples.
Why UAE Requires Attested Marriage Certificate
UAE authorities need to verify that your marriage is legally recognised in India before granting a family visa to your spouse. The attestation chain — from the issuing state authority to the UAE Embassy — proves that your marriage certificate is genuine, legal, and officially recognised by the Indian government.Types of Marriage Certificates That Can Be Attested
- ✅ Hindu Marriage Certificate — issued by local registrar or SDM office
- ✅ Christian Marriage Certificate — church marriage registered with civil authority
- ✅ Muslim Nikah Certificate — Nikah nama registered with Qazi
- ✅ Court Marriage Certificate — Special Marriage Act registration
- ✅ Kerala Municipality / Panchayat Marriage Certificate
Attestation Process for UAE Marriage Certificate
1
State Home Department Attestation
The marriage certificate is first attested by the State Home Department (for Kerala, this is the Home Department in Thiruvananthapuram) or the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM).
The marriage certificate is first attested by the State Home Department (for Kerala, this is the Home Department in Thiruvananthapuram) or the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM).
2
MEA Attestation
The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi stamps the certificate, making it valid for international use.
The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi stamps the certificate, making it valid for international use.
3
UAE Embassy Attestation
The UAE Embassy in New Delhi or Mumbai attests the MEA-stamped marriage certificate.
The UAE Embassy in New Delhi or Mumbai attests the MEA-stamped marriage certificate.
4
MOFA Attestation in UAE
After arriving in UAE, some visa applications require MOFA attestation in the UAE itself. Your employer or PRO typically guides this step.
After arriving in UAE, some visa applications require MOFA attestation in the UAE itself. Your employer or PRO typically guides this step.
Documents Required
- ✅ Original marriage certificate
- ✅ Husband's passport copy
- ✅ Wife's passport copy
- ✅ 2 photocopies of the marriage certificate
- ✅ 2 passport-size photographs of each spouse
- ✅ UAE visa copy of the sponsor (husband/wife already in UAE)
What if My Marriage Certificate is in Malayalam?
Malayalam-language marriage certificates must be translated to English by a certified translator before attestation. At Attestation Expert, we assist with certified translation as part of our service — you do not need to find a separate translator.Timeline for Marriage Certificate Attestation
| Stage | Standard Time |
|---|---|
| State Home Department | 3–5 working days |
| MEA Attestation | 3–5 working days |
| UAE Embassy | 3–5 working days |
| Total | 7–12 working days |
Tips for Kerala Applicants
- 💡 Apply for attestation at least 30–45 days before your planned visa submission
- 💡 Make sure your marriage is registered with a government authority — unregistered marriages cannot be attested
- 💡 If your certificate is old or faded, get a fresh certified copy from the issuing authority
- 💡 Keep 3–4 attested copies — UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait each need their own attested original
Need Help with Attestation?
Our team is ready to assist — free consultation, transparent pricing, doorstep pickup across Kerala and India.