Turnkey Legalization (Attestation) of Documents for the United Arab Emirates
For personal and business documents: for marriage in the UAE, for powers of attorney for the UAE, for business affairs, opening up a branch, and export to the UAE, and other legal purposes
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- Statutory Declarations of Single Status
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Document Legalization for the UAE in Canada: What It Is and When You Need It
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For a document issued in Canada to be used in the UAE, it needs to go through a process called legalization. There are two types of legalization: full legalization/attestation (a two-step procedure) and simplified legalization (a one-step process, often referred to as an apostille). The UAE is not a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention, so you'll have to go through the full legalization/attestation process.
Documents prepared by or with the involvement of Canadian authorities and intended for use in the UAE require the three-step procedure. These steps are:
1) Authentication in Canada
2) Attestation (Legalization) by Embassy in Canada
3) MOFAIC Attestation in the UAE
Sometimes, all these steps are collectively referred to as "legalization" or “attestation”, though this is technically incorrect. If you encounter the term "legalization in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs", it specifically refers to authentication in Canada by a Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It's important not to confuse these terms.
Some consulates of other countries call the second step of the process, which is done by the consulate or embassy, "authentication", which is again, technically incorrect. This second step is called legalization for most of countries, and for the UAE specifically, it is called “attestation”.
Authentication is done by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Canada (Global Affairs) or by a provincial authority (more on this below).
Attestation (Legalization) is done by the Embassy of the UAE in Canada.
After the document is attested (legalized) in Canada, the client will have to go through one final step once the document arrives in the UAE — attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC).
While these are three separate processes, all of them are necessary parts of the overall legalization procedure.
📌 Let’s Lock It In!
You have a Canadian birth certificate and need to use it in the UAE.
Since the UAE is not a member of the Apostille Convention,
you’ll need:
1️⃣ Authentication by Global Affairs Canada (or a provincial authority),
2️⃣ Attestation by the Embassy of the UAE in Canada,
3️⃣ Attestation by the UAE Ministry (MOFAIC) in the UAE.
That’s full legalization ✅
2) Attestation (Legalization) by Embassy in Canada
3) MOFAIC Attestation in the UAE
Sometimes, all these steps are collectively referred to as "legalization" or “attestation”, though this is technically incorrect. If you encounter the term "legalization in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs", it specifically refers to authentication in Canada by a Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It's important not to confuse these terms.
Some consulates of other countries call the second step of the process, which is done by the consulate or embassy, "authentication", which is again, technically incorrect. This second step is called legalization for most of countries, and for the UAE specifically, it is called “attestation”.
Authentication is done by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Canada (Global Affairs) or by a provincial authority (more on this below).
Attestation (Legalization) is done by the Embassy of the UAE in Canada.
After the document is attested (legalized) in Canada, the client will have to go through one final step once the document arrives in the UAE — attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC).
While these are three separate processes, all of them are necessary parts of the overall legalization procedure.
📌 Let’s Lock It In!
You have a Canadian birth certificate and need to use it in the UAE.
Since the UAE is not a member of the Apostille Convention,
you’ll need:
1️⃣ Authentication by Global Affairs Canada (or a provincial authority),
2️⃣ Attestation by the Embassy of the UAE in Canada,
3️⃣ Attestation by the UAE Ministry (MOFAIC) in the UAE.
That’s full legalization ✅
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What Documents Need to Be Legalized?
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All documents issued by a canadian authority or by a provincial or territorial authority or executed by a Canadian notary that you need to use in another country.
1) Certificates issued by civil registry offices, for example, certificates of birth, death, marriage, change of name, last name, etc.
2) Powers of attorney and notarial statements, including statements of being alive, renunciation of inheritance, absence of past and current marriages (certificates of single status, single status declarations), which are drawn up or signed by a notary
3) Diplomas, supplements to diplomas, certificates and other documents related to education
4) Bank statements, court documents, divorce decrees
5) Cremation or burial certificates
6) Corporation registration certificates, bank statements, letters of guarantee from directors of the company, extracts from registers of corporations, certificates for products for export from Canada to the UAE
2) Powers of attorney and notarial statements, including statements of being alive, renunciation of inheritance, absence of past and current marriages (certificates of single status, single status declarations), which are drawn up or signed by a notary
3) Diplomas, supplements to diplomas, certificates and other documents related to education
4) Bank statements, court documents, divorce decrees
5) Cremation or burial certificates
6) Corporation registration certificates, bank statements, letters of guarantee from directors of the company, extracts from registers of corporations, certificates for products for export from Canada to the UAE
All of these types of documents go through different authentication procedures.
The legalization procedure also includes all cases when a child born in Canada needs to obtain citizenship of the UAE, because in order to obtain citizenship of another country, you'll need to provide a Canadian birth certificate, and it, in turn, will have to be legalized.
The legalization procedure also includes all cases when a child born in Canada needs to obtain citizenship of the UAE, because in order to obtain citizenship of another country, you'll need to provide a Canadian birth certificate, and it, in turn, will have to be legalized.
The most common documents subject to this procedure are:
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How to Make Legalization?
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In a nutshell, it goes like this:
1) Get the original document authenticated by the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a provincial Canadian authority (Which one exactly? There are nuances, read below)
2) Submit the document package for attestation to the Embassy of the UAE in Canada
3) When the document is already in the UAE, submit it for the MOFAIC attestation in the UAE.
Now in more detail.
Why is legalization considered a TWO-step procedure?
In order to certify the authenticity of a Canadian document,
1) First, you need to certify the signature and seal of the official Canadian authority who signed the document. Such an assurance is made by the Canadian minister, who puts his seal and signature on the document. This is the authentication.
2) Second, the Embassy of the UAE must certify the signature and seal of that Canadian minister who authenticated the document. This is the consular attestation.
In other words, the Canadian minister verifies and confirms the signature and seal of the official Canadian authority who signed and issued the document, confirming that such an employee existed, that they were acting at the time of signing the document, and that the signature and stamp on the document are really theirs. And the Consul at the Embassy performs the “consular legalization (attestation)” of the signature and seal of this Canadian minister, thereby confirming that such a minister really exists, that this is their true signature and seal, and that they were acting at the time of signing the document.
After the consular legalization, it makes sense to get certified translations of the documents into Arabic for the use in the UAE.
Do not forget about the last attestation step that has to be done in the UAE already.
1) Get the original document authenticated by the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a provincial Canadian authority (Which one exactly? There are nuances, read below)
2) Submit the document package for attestation to the Embassy of the UAE in Canada
3) When the document is already in the UAE, submit it for the MOFAIC attestation in the UAE.
Now in more detail.
Why is legalization considered a TWO-step procedure?
In order to certify the authenticity of a Canadian document,
1) First, you need to certify the signature and seal of the official Canadian authority who signed the document. Such an assurance is made by the Canadian minister, who puts his seal and signature on the document. This is the authentication.
2) Second, the Embassy of the UAE must certify the signature and seal of that Canadian minister who authenticated the document. This is the consular attestation.
In other words, the Canadian minister verifies and confirms the signature and seal of the official Canadian authority who signed and issued the document, confirming that such an employee existed, that they were acting at the time of signing the document, and that the signature and stamp on the document are really theirs. And the Consul at the Embassy performs the “consular legalization (attestation)” of the signature and seal of this Canadian minister, thereby confirming that such a minister really exists, that this is their true signature and seal, and that they were acting at the time of signing the document.
After the consular legalization, it makes sense to get certified translations of the documents into Arabic for the use in the UAE.
Do not forget about the last attestation step that has to be done in the UAE already.
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Preparing for Authentication
All documents can be divided into three types. Those that need to be notarized before authentication, and those that do not. There are also documents that are prepared with the help of a notary — this is a different procedure that requires either an in-person visit to a notary, or a video call with the notary, depending on the province.
Here are the main documents divided into these three types:
1) No need to notarize: certificates issued by the registry office, for example, certificates of birth, marriage, divorce, death, name change, diplomas issued by a public institution, etc.
2) Necessary to notarize: certificates of cremation and burial, certificates of good conduct, diplomas, bank and court documents, diplomas issued by a private institution, etc.
3) Necessary to sign at a notary: powers of attorney, statements of renunciation of inheritance, applications for the appointment of pension payments, any other notarial documents and statements
Who are these Canadian state employees who sign these documents, whose signatures and seals actually get authenticated?
1) Registrar General or Deputy Registrar General: Certificates issued by the Civil Registry Offices, such as birth, marriage, divorce, death, name change, etc.
2) Public Notary: True copies of any documents, such as cremation and burial certificates, police clearance certificates, diplomas, banking and court documents, etc.
3) Public Notary: Powers of attorney, declarations of renunciation of inheritance, declarations of assignment of pension payments, any other notarial documents and statements
4) Judge or Clerk of the Court: Court decisions
5) Officer of the Department of Corporation Registration (Registraire des entreprises in Quebec): Corporation registration certificates
6) Deans of the public universities and schools: Diplomas
7) Lawyers: Any other legal documents
Business documents:
Business documents related to invoices (Invoices, Certificates of Origin, Packing Lists, other documents related to the invoices) must first be certified by the Chamber of Commerce or the Board of Trade in Canada, as mentioned on the consulate’s website.
However, please note that the Board of Trade in Canada no longer issues such certifications, so this requirement is no longer applicable.
All other commercial, business, and corporate documents, such as Commercial By-Laws, General Powers of Attorney, Certificates of Good Standing, Resolutions, Free Sale Certificates, Distribution/Agency Agreements, Price Lists, Certificates of Amendment, Articles of Amendment, Registrations, Appointments, GMP Certificates, Authorizations of Agents, Sanitary Certificates, Assignments, ISO Certificates, Board Resolutions, Certificates of Existence, Certificates of Incorporation, Articles of Incorporation, Trademark or Patent Applications, do not need to be additionally certified by the Chamber of Commerce.
Diplomas / Degrees and Transcript:
To get a degree or a diploma from any Canadian university attested, you need to order the official and sealed transcript to be mailed directly from the university to the UAE embassy. E-transcript is not acceptable.
Here are the main documents divided into these three types:
1) No need to notarize: certificates issued by the registry office, for example, certificates of birth, marriage, divorce, death, name change, diplomas issued by a public institution, etc.
2) Necessary to notarize: certificates of cremation and burial, certificates of good conduct, diplomas, bank and court documents, diplomas issued by a private institution, etc.
3) Necessary to sign at a notary: powers of attorney, statements of renunciation of inheritance, applications for the appointment of pension payments, any other notarial documents and statements
Who are these Canadian state employees who sign these documents, whose signatures and seals actually get authenticated?
1) Registrar General or Deputy Registrar General: Certificates issued by the Civil Registry Offices, such as birth, marriage, divorce, death, name change, etc.
2) Public Notary: True copies of any documents, such as cremation and burial certificates, police clearance certificates, diplomas, banking and court documents, etc.
3) Public Notary: Powers of attorney, declarations of renunciation of inheritance, declarations of assignment of pension payments, any other notarial documents and statements
4) Judge or Clerk of the Court: Court decisions
5) Officer of the Department of Corporation Registration (Registraire des entreprises in Quebec): Corporation registration certificates
6) Deans of the public universities and schools: Diplomas
7) Lawyers: Any other legal documents
Business documents:
Business documents related to invoices (Invoices, Certificates of Origin, Packing Lists, other documents related to the invoices) must first be certified by the Chamber of Commerce or the Board of Trade in Canada, as mentioned on the consulate’s website.
However, please note that the Board of Trade in Canada no longer issues such certifications, so this requirement is no longer applicable.
All other commercial, business, and corporate documents, such as Commercial By-Laws, General Powers of Attorney, Certificates of Good Standing, Resolutions, Free Sale Certificates, Distribution/Agency Agreements, Price Lists, Certificates of Amendment, Articles of Amendment, Registrations, Appointments, GMP Certificates, Authorizations of Agents, Sanitary Certificates, Assignments, ISO Certificates, Board Resolutions, Certificates of Existence, Certificates of Incorporation, Articles of Incorporation, Trademark or Patent Applications, do not need to be additionally certified by the Chamber of Commerce.
Diplomas / Degrees and Transcript:
To get a degree or a diploma from any Canadian university attested, you need to order the official and sealed transcript to be mailed directly from the university to the UAE embassy. E-transcript is not acceptable.
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Authentication
A document can be authenticated in its original form, in which case the authentication certificate will be attached to the original. It is also possible to authenticate a notarized copy of the document (True Copy), in which case the authentication certificate will be attached to the notarized copy. According to the requirements of the Department of Foreign Affairs, certain types of documents can only be authenticated as a True Copy, while others may be authenticated either in their original form or as a copy.
You can get a document authenticated:
1) By the Canadian Foreign Affairs Office (Global Affairs), which is located in Ottawa. Global Affairs of Canada authenticates documents issued by the Government of Canada, or issued or notarized in Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Prince Edward Island, and Yukon.
2) In provincial or territorial ministries. Such ministries exist in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. For example, in Ontario, such a ministry is called ODS (Ontario Document Services) and is located in Toronto and in a few other cities in Ontario. A provincial ministry can only authenticate documents issued in that province and not in any other. That is, if your document was issued in Quebec, you will not be able to authenticate its original with the ODS (Ministry of Ontario). But you can authenticate its True Copy with the ODS.
You can get a document authenticated:
1) By the Canadian Foreign Affairs Office (Global Affairs), which is located in Ottawa. Global Affairs of Canada authenticates documents issued by the Government of Canada, or issued or notarized in Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Prince Edward Island, and Yukon.
2) In provincial or territorial ministries. Such ministries exist in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. For example, in Ontario, such a ministry is called ODS (Ontario Document Services) and is located in Toronto and in a few other cities in Ontario. A provincial ministry can only authenticate documents issued in that province and not in any other. That is, if your document was issued in Quebec, you will not be able to authenticate its original with the ODS (Ministry of Ontario). But you can authenticate its True Copy with the ODS.
IMPORTANT NOTE! Only the ODS accepts documents for authentication in person and issues the authentication certificate on the same day. All other ministries, including Global Affairs, accept documents only by mail, and the processing times vary from 5 to 20 business days, plus additional time and costs for mailing. Therefore, it is faster and cheaper to authenticate documents through the ODS. Fortunately, the UAE Consulate allows the legalization not of the original document but of its notarized copy (True Copy). Thus, the simplest way is to make notarized copies of the documents in Ontario, authenticate them at the ODS, and then legalize them through the UAE Consulate.
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Power of attorney to represent your interests with the embassy
The Embassy requires me to have a properly notarized power of attorney in which you would provide me with authority to act on your behalf.
I can prepare a draft of such power of attorney, and you can sign it with my notary, online or offline.
I can prepare a draft of such power of attorney, and you can sign it with my notary, online or offline.
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Certified Translation
If your documents or their authentications are in any language other than English or Arabic, translation and notarization are required by the Embassy.
So, if you have any documents in French (for example, from Quebec), or if your authentications were made in Quebec in French only, I will prepare certified translations of them into English.
So, if you have any documents in French (for example, from Quebec), or if your authentications were made in Quebec in French only, I will prepare certified translations of them into English.
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Notarization of translations
If the documents were not in English or Arabic, and I made translations into English, the Embassy also requires to notarize translations.
So, I will visit a public notary and sign an affidavit attesting to the correctness and completeness of the translations.
So, I will visit a public notary and sign an affidavit attesting to the correctness and completeness of the translations.
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Attestation
Embassy of the UAE in Canada have specific requirements for the document package for legalization.
The document package will include:
After the consular attestation, the document will be shipped back to me by the Embassy.
The document package will include:
- The original document, authenticated
- The power of attorney to represent your interests
- Certified and notarized translations if applicable
- Application form
- Copy of applicant’s passport
- Cover letter (optional)
After the consular attestation, the document will be shipped back to me by the Embassy.
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Certified translation into Arabic (if required)
I can prepare certified translations into Arabic if you need.
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MOFIAC Attestation in the UAE
After your document has been legalized by the UAE Embassy in Canada, there is one final step once the document arrives in the UAE. To be fully recognized by government authorities, the document must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) inside the UAE. This is essentially a verification of the Embassy’s stamp and is required for the document to be used in official matters (such as product registration, legal submissions, etc. in the UAE).
You’ll need to present the Document to MOFAIC:
a. In-Person at MOFAIC Customer Happiness Centers: You (or a representative) can take the document to an official MOFAIC attestation center (in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or other emirates – often these are offices or departments of MOFAIC). You will need to pay the required fee (typically via e-dirham or credit card kiosk at the center) and submit the document over the counter. They will check the UAE Embassy stamp and then apply the UAE MOFAIC stamp on the document. This process is usually done on the spot or the same day.
b. Online via MOFAIC E-Services: MOFAIC offers an online attestation service for those in the UAE. Since you will have a UAE-attested document from abroad, you can use the MOFAIC online portal or mobile app to request a domestic attestation. You’ll log in (note: “UAE Pass” app is typically used for individuals or you register a new account), select “Document Attestation – Inside UAE,” and input the details. You then pay the fee online. After payment, a courier is dispatched to collect the document from you, and once MOFAIC stamps it, the document is couriered back to your address. This means you might not need to visit an office at all – the courier will handle pickup and delivery. MOFAIC’s site indicates that once you complete the online steps, “the selected delivery company will proceed with the delivery of the attested document.” This convenient method might require a local UAE address and phone number for coordination.
You’ll need to present the Document to MOFAIC:
a. In-Person at MOFAIC Customer Happiness Centers: You (or a representative) can take the document to an official MOFAIC attestation center (in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or other emirates – often these are offices or departments of MOFAIC). You will need to pay the required fee (typically via e-dirham or credit card kiosk at the center) and submit the document over the counter. They will check the UAE Embassy stamp and then apply the UAE MOFAIC stamp on the document. This process is usually done on the spot or the same day.
b. Online via MOFAIC E-Services: MOFAIC offers an online attestation service for those in the UAE. Since you will have a UAE-attested document from abroad, you can use the MOFAIC online portal or mobile app to request a domestic attestation. You’ll log in (note: “UAE Pass” app is typically used for individuals or you register a new account), select “Document Attestation – Inside UAE,” and input the details. You then pay the fee online. After payment, a courier is dispatched to collect the document from you, and once MOFAIC stamps it, the document is couriered back to your address. This means you might not need to visit an office at all – the courier will handle pickup and delivery. MOFAIC’s site indicates that once you complete the online steps, “the selected delivery company will proceed with the delivery of the attested document.” This convenient method might require a local UAE address and phone number for coordination.
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How Much Does Legalization/Attestation Cost and How Long Does It Take?
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The cost and terms depend on the types of documents, so it is impossible to give any exact “total price”.
The attestation fees are AED 150 for certificates and AED 2000 for commercial documents.
This service will be carried out through VFS. The VFS delivery service will collect your documents, submit them to the mission for attestation, and return them to me once the process is completed.
An additional delivery fee of 95 AED will apply at the payment stage. Please note that each request may include a maximum of three (3) documents.
Transaction fees also apply:
For translations, I usually charge $89 per page.
Notarial certification of the accuracy of translations usually costs $75 for each notary's signature.
For turnkey legalization, which includes both steps: authentication and legalization, I usually charge $250 plus all related costs (mail/courier fees, ministry fees, consular fees, bank commissions: as much as they charge me, you will have to reimburse me for the same).
For turnkey authentication, which includes only the first step: authentication, I usually charge $150 plus all related costs (mail/courier fees, ministry fees: as much as they charge me, you will have to reimburse me for the same).
13% tax is added on top. All prices are negotiable.
The attestation fees are AED 150 for certificates and AED 2000 for commercial documents.
This service will be carried out through VFS. The VFS delivery service will collect your documents, submit them to the mission for attestation, and return them to me once the process is completed.
An additional delivery fee of 95 AED will apply at the payment stage. Please note that each request may include a maximum of three (3) documents.
Transaction fees also apply:
- Domestic bank transactions: 1.4% (exclusive of VAT)
- International bank transactions: 2% (exclusive of VAT)
For translations, I usually charge $89 per page.
Notarial certification of the accuracy of translations usually costs $75 for each notary's signature.
For turnkey legalization, which includes both steps: authentication and legalization, I usually charge $250 plus all related costs (mail/courier fees, ministry fees, consular fees, bank commissions: as much as they charge me, you will have to reimburse me for the same).
For turnkey authentication, which includes only the first step: authentication, I usually charge $150 plus all related costs (mail/courier fees, ministry fees: as much as they charge me, you will have to reimburse me for the same).
13% tax is added on top. All prices are negotiable.
Example procedure for obtaining a legalization for the UAE with prices and timelines
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Below, as an example, is a detailed procedure for obtaining a turnkey legalization for the UAE with one of the more frequently encountered documents, with prices and timelines.
The client is in Ontario.
Document: Canadian RCMP criminal record check with fingerprints.
The client is in Ontario.
Document: Canadian RCMP criminal record check with fingerprints.
If you have the original paper document, I will prepare the shipping label for you, and you will send the original criminal record check to me. If you only have the electronic document, you will send it to me by e-mail.
I will get a true copy of your document certified by my public notary in Ontario.
I will also obtain the Certificate of Authentication from the Ontario Document Services (ODS).
You will provide me with a power of attorney that will allow me to submit documents to the Embassy of the UAE in Canada on your behalf (this can be prepared with my notary).
I will prepare the document package and send it to the Embassy of the UAE.
(Optional) Once the legalized document returns to me, I will arrange the certified translations from English into Arabic.
I will then send the completed document package back to you, or you can pick it up from my office.
Costs:
— For turnkey legalization services, which include both authentication at the Canadian ministries and then legalization in the Embassy of the UAE, I charge $250.
— Signing a power of attorney with my notary (online or offline) costs $75 per document.
— For translations into Arabic after the final package is ready, I charge $89 per page.
— Notarization of the true copy costs $75 per page. (Discounts are possible based on volume.)
— The cost of an authentication at ODS for notarial documents is $16, plus a bank fee of $10.
— The cost of an authentication at ODS for documents issued by the government, such as vital statistics documents, is $32 plus a bank fee of $10.
— The cost for legalization in the Embassy of the UAE is AED 150 per personal document.
— The cost of one shipment with an Xpresspost or a ChitChats courier is $25 CAD.
— The Embassy’s delivery fee is 95 AED.
— A bank fee of 1.4% for domestic transactions and 2% for international transactions (exclusive of VAT) is applied when the payment is made by credit card.
A 13% tax is added to the final amount.
Timelines:
— Notarization of the true copy takes 1 business day.
— Apostille at ODS is done in 1 business day. I go there every Wednesday, and I can go more frequently if required.
— Remote/in person notarization with my notary takes 1 business day.
— The Embassy of the UAE takes 1-2 weeks to process the package
— Translation of the document takes 1-3 days, depending on the volume.
— Delivery of documents by a courier usually takes 1-3 days for each shipment.
— For turnkey legalization services, which include both authentication at the Canadian ministries and then legalization in the Embassy of the UAE, I charge $250.
— Signing a power of attorney with my notary (online or offline) costs $75 per document.
— For translations into Arabic after the final package is ready, I charge $89 per page.
— Notarization of the true copy costs $75 per page. (Discounts are possible based on volume.)
— The cost of an authentication at ODS for notarial documents is $16, plus a bank fee of $10.
— The cost of an authentication at ODS for documents issued by the government, such as vital statistics documents, is $32 plus a bank fee of $10.
— The cost for legalization in the Embassy of the UAE is AED 150 per personal document.
— The cost of one shipment with an Xpresspost or a ChitChats courier is $25 CAD.
— The Embassy’s delivery fee is 95 AED.
— A bank fee of 1.4% for domestic transactions and 2% for international transactions (exclusive of VAT) is applied when the payment is made by credit card.
A 13% tax is added to the final amount.
Timelines:
— Notarization of the true copy takes 1 business day.
— Apostille at ODS is done in 1 business day. I go there every Wednesday, and I can go more frequently if required.
— Remote/in person notarization with my notary takes 1 business day.
— The Embassy of the UAE takes 1-2 weeks to process the package
— Translation of the document takes 1-3 days, depending on the volume.
— Delivery of documents by a courier usually takes 1-3 days for each shipment.
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What Does Authentication and Legalization Look Like?
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Here is an example of a death certificate issued in Ontario:
Deputy Registrar General, Alexandra Schmidt
Registrar General, the name is not clear, the signature cannot be deciphered
Pay attention to the signatories of the document:
Ontario * Registrar General * Coat of arms of Ontario
Pay attention to the stamp (seal):
This is a red rectangular seal that they usually put on the back of the document, because there is simply no place on the front. If there is some free space at the front, they can put at the front.
It says here:
“The Department of Foreign Affairs of Canada has authenticated (i.e. certified / confirmed) the signature that is on the attached document, which was made by
Alexandra Schmidt
(see my screenshot above, it was Alexandra Schmidt who signed the original document)
Signed on behalf of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Relations, by an employee of this department:
Elaine Shea
It says below: The Department DOES NOT validate, i.e., DOES NOT check the content of the document!
That is, the department does not check what kind of document it is, but ONLY checks whether there is such Alexandra Schmidt and whether the sample of her signature really matches this signature.
It says here:
“The Department of Foreign Affairs of Canada has authenticated (i.e. certified / confirmed) the signature that is on the attached document, which was made by
Alexandra Schmidt
(see my screenshot above, it was Alexandra Schmidt who signed the original document)
Signed on behalf of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Relations, by an employee of this department:
Elaine Shea
It says below: The Department DOES NOT validate, i.e., DOES NOT check the content of the document!
That is, the department does not check what kind of document it is, but ONLY checks whether there is such Alexandra Schmidt and whether the sample of her signature really matches this signature.
This is how the authentication done for this document in the all-Canadian Ministry of Global Affairs looks like:
Here the Ontario Minister Kenneth Woo confirms that there is such Alexandra Schmidt, and it is her signature and seal that is on the document.
Please note that the Ontario authentication is a separate piece of paper with a signature and a red official seal, which is attached to the original document with two round staples, so that it cannot be detached from the original document.
Please note that the Ontario authentication is a separate piece of paper with a signature and a red official seal, which is attached to the original document with two round staples, so that it cannot be detached from the original document.
And this is how authentication at a provincial ministry in Ontario looks like:
Here, Manitoba Minister Jamie Kereluke confirms that there is indeed such a notary, Caroline Barrett-Cramer, who works and is registered in the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and it is true that her signature and seal are on the original document.
Please note that the Manitoba authentication is also a separate sheet with a signature and an official “depressed” seal, which is attached to the original document with two round brackets, so that it cannot be detached from the original document.
Please note that the Manitoba authentication is also a separate sheet with a signature and an official “depressed” seal, which is attached to the original document with two round brackets, so that it cannot be detached from the original document.
And this is what authentication looks like at a provincial ministry in the province of Manitoba:
You need to understand that someone can make a fake photo in Photoshop. Print out two copies. Go to a notary, say that one copy is "my original", and the second copy is "a copy". The notary will certify the second copy as “certified true copy of the original”, i.e. a notarized copy of the original document. The notary will put his seal and signature on the second copy.
This notarized copy can then be authenticated by a Canadian or provincial authority, as ministers will ONLY verify the authenticity of the notary's signature, but NOT the content of the document.
And then only on legalization at the consulate it will be revealed that the original document was not checked by anyone and was not confirmed by anyone, and in this case, the client will get the legalization refused.
This notarized copy can then be authenticated by a Canadian or provincial authority, as ministers will ONLY verify the authenticity of the notary's signature, but NOT the content of the document.
And then only on legalization at the consulate it will be revealed that the original document was not checked by anyone and was not confirmed by anyone, and in this case, the client will get the legalization refused.
Sometimes people mistakenly authenticate NOT the original document, but a notarized copy of it.
The minister who does the authentication does not care at all, because they simply verify the signature/seal of the government officer. The civil registry officer and the notary are both government officers.
This is what authentication in Toronto of the signature and seal of the notary David James Donnelly looks like:
The minister who does the authentication does not care at all, because they simply verify the signature/seal of the government officer. The civil registry officer and the notary are both government officers.
This is what authentication in Toronto of the signature and seal of the notary David James Donnelly looks like:
This is how the document authentication done in the Toronto (Ontario) office looks like:
This is how the document authentication done in the Edmonton (Alberta) office looks like:
This is how the document authentication done in the Victoria (British Columbia) office looks like:
More questions than answers? Let's take a look at your specific situation
Legalization of a Birth Certificate
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Please note that there are three types of Canadian birth certificates:
- -1-Short form without parents' names
(a blue document of approximately half-Letter size)— this certificate is NOT suitable for any legalization, because there is no information about the parents, but is it required - -2-A short form with the names of the parents
(a blue document of about half-Letter size)— usually suitable for legalization - -3-Long form
(a legal white document in a long Legal paper size, approximately like 1.5 Letter sheets in height)— usually suitable for legalization
Such a document will NOT be accepted at the consulate, as there are no names and last names of the parents
Birth Certificate
Birth Certificate with Parental Information
Please note: there are last names and first names of parents. Such a document is usually suitable at the consulate
Certified Copy of the Birth Registration ("Long Form")
Please note: there are last names and first names of parents. Such a document is usually suitable at the consulate
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How to Make a Power of Attorney for Someone Who Is in the UAE If You Are in Canada?
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In order for a power of attorney to have legal force in the UAE, it must be certified by the state employees of the UAE.
Option # 1. Go to the UAE and make a power of attorney there in-person at a notary public.
Option # 2. Signing at a notary in Canada, authentication, and legalization.
This option is the only one available in 99% of cases.
Simply signing at a notary in Canada is NOT ENOUGH, because a Canadian notary is not a government official in the UAE, and no one there knows them, so no government institution in the UAE will accept such a power of attorney.
Option # 1. Go to the UAE and make a power of attorney there in-person at a notary public.
Option # 2. Signing at a notary in Canada, authentication, and legalization.
This option is the only one available in 99% of cases.
Simply signing at a notary in Canada is NOT ENOUGH, because a Canadian notary is not a government official in the UAE, and no one there knows them, so no government institution in the UAE will accept such a power of attorney.
Details on the Procedure for Getting a Power of Attorney Legalized
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Drafting the Text of the Power of Attorney
First, you need to write the text of the power of attorney. It is better to do this initially in the Arabic language with the help of an experienced notary in the UAE.
It is important not to forget to indicate all the correct names of state bodies.
It will be a pity to go through all the steps below and at the very end to find out that you forgot to write some abbreviation which was required.
It is important not to forget to indicate all the correct names of state bodies.
It will be a pity to go through all the steps below and at the very end to find out that you forgot to write some abbreviation which was required.
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Certified Translation
The Embassy accepts powers of attorney in the Arabic language; however, Canadian authentication authorities and Canadian notaries can only sign documents in English. The only possible resolution is to have the powers of attorney in both English and Arabic, in two columns side-by-side.
The professional translator will complete this certified translation in two columns, and I will send it to you for your approval.
The professional translator will complete this certified translation in two columns, and I will send it to you for your approval.
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Certification of Your Signature by a Notary
Then you will sign this bilingual English+Arabic power of attorney online or in person with my notary, who is based in Ontario.
It doesn’t matter where you are in Canada or even in another country — the entire process can be done remotely via a secure video call, and I’ll schedule it at a time that’s convenient for you.
The Ontario notary will verify your identity (so have your ID ready) and witness your declaration that the contents of the power of attorney are true.
After you sign the power of attorney, if it is done online, I will send you a pre-paid shipping label for you to ship your signed paper version to the notary. As soon as the notary receives your document, they will complete the certification of one of it with their signature, stamps, and other markings. I will collect the documents from the notary.
It doesn’t matter where you are in Canada or even in another country — the entire process can be done remotely via a secure video call, and I’ll schedule it at a time that’s convenient for you.
The Ontario notary will verify your identity (so have your ID ready) and witness your declaration that the contents of the power of attorney are true.
After you sign the power of attorney, if it is done online, I will send you a pre-paid shipping label for you to ship your signed paper version to the notary. As soon as the notary receives your document, they will complete the certification of one of it with their signature, stamps, and other markings. I will collect the documents from the notary.
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Authentication
The UAE accepts provincial authentication by the Ontario Document Services (ODS), so I will get the notarized power of attorney authenticated there for you.
Authentication is a procedure when the Canadian minister checks whether there is such a notary in Canada, whether they were acting at the time of signing, and whether it's their signature and seal that are on the document.
Next, this bilingual power of attorney, certified by a Canadian notary, needs to be authenticated.
This is how the document authentication made in the Toronto office looks like:
Authentication is a procedure when the Canadian minister checks whether there is such a notary in Canada, whether they were acting at the time of signing, and whether it's their signature and seal that are on the document.
Next, this bilingual power of attorney, certified by a Canadian notary, needs to be authenticated.
This is how the document authentication made in the Toronto office looks like:
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Power of attorney to represent your interests with the embassy
The Embassy requires me to have a properly notarized power of attorney in which you would provide me with authority to act on your behalf.
I can prepare a draft of such power of attorney, and you can sign it with my notary, online or offline.
I can prepare a draft of such power of attorney, and you can sign it with my notary, online or offline.
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Legalization
The last stage is Consular legalization.
A power of attorney (the one that is intended for use in the UAE, not the one that allows me to represent your interests) certified by a Canadian notary public, authenticated by Ontario Document Services, will be submitted to the Embassy of the UAE in Canada for Consular legalization.
See the list of documents and all requirements on the website of the Embassy.
They require the following:
After the consular attestation, the document will be shipped back to me by the Embassy.
A power of attorney (the one that is intended for use in the UAE, not the one that allows me to represent your interests) certified by a Canadian notary public, authenticated by Ontario Document Services, will be submitted to the Embassy of the UAE in Canada for Consular legalization.
See the list of documents and all requirements on the website of the Embassy.
They require the following:
- Power of attorney to represent your interests with the embassy
- A copy of a valid ID/passport of the Authorized person who is stated in the power of attorney.
- A Request for legalization
- Payment confirmation
After the consular attestation, the document will be shipped back to me by the Embassy.
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Certified Translations into Arabic
If needed, at this stage, I arrange certified translations of the final document package into Arabic, so that you are able to use it in the UAE.
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Receipt of the Finished Document
I will send the finished documents to you via regular mail or any courier of your choice, or you can pick them up from my office.
Leave a request for a consultation, I will answer within a day
* DISCLAIMER
I guarantee that all my work will be completed accurately and to the fullest extent possible, based solely on the official information available from government institutions and official websites. However, I do not and cannot guarantee the actions, timelines, or performance of third-party entities such as government offices (including those processing apostilles, authentication, and legalization, such as Global Affairs, Ontario Document Services, etc.), Canada Post, courier services, Chambre des notaires du Québec (CNQ), Barreau du Québec, embassies and consulates, notaries, and lawyers. I cannot be held responsible for delays, errors, or failures on their part.
The information and services described on this page do not constitute legal advice, legal services, or legal representation as defined under the Law Society Act of Ontario. I am not a licensed lawyer, paralegal, or notary, do not represent myself as such, and am not licensed by the Law Society of Ontario.
The information provided is compiled from official sources and presented strictly “as is.” The services offered here are limited to assisting clients with translation services, document collection, form preparation, and shipping coordination.
Clients are encouraged to consult a licensed legal professional (lawyer, paralegal, or notary) in their country, province or territory for any legal advice or representation.
By using the services described on this page, clients confirm their understanding and acceptance of these terms and agree to release the service provider (including any representatives, agents, heirs, or successors) from any legal liability related to the use of these services or the information presented herein.
I guarantee that all my work will be completed accurately and to the fullest extent possible, based solely on the official information available from government institutions and official websites. However, I do not and cannot guarantee the actions, timelines, or performance of third-party entities such as government offices (including those processing apostilles, authentication, and legalization, such as Global Affairs, Ontario Document Services, etc.), Canada Post, courier services, Chambre des notaires du Québec (CNQ), Barreau du Québec, embassies and consulates, notaries, and lawyers. I cannot be held responsible for delays, errors, or failures on their part.
The information and services described on this page do not constitute legal advice, legal services, or legal representation as defined under the Law Society Act of Ontario. I am not a licensed lawyer, paralegal, or notary, do not represent myself as such, and am not licensed by the Law Society of Ontario.
The information provided is compiled from official sources and presented strictly “as is.” The services offered here are limited to assisting clients with translation services, document collection, form preparation, and shipping coordination.
Clients are encouraged to consult a licensed legal professional (lawyer, paralegal, or notary) in their country, province or territory for any legal advice or representation.
By using the services described on this page, clients confirm their understanding and acceptance of these terms and agree to release the service provider (including any representatives, agents, heirs, or successors) from any legal liability related to the use of these services or the information presented herein.
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I will answer all your questions about legalization for the United Arab Emirates