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Certified True Copy in UAE

A certified true copy is a verified photocopy of an original document. The copy is checked against the original, then stamped and signed by an authorized professional so it can be accepted for official use.

In the UAE, certified true copies are most commonly requested for international applications, especially when you should not submit the original passport, degree, or civil document.

This guide explains what a certified true copy means, who can legally certify documents in the UAE, and how the process works when the document is intended for use outside the country.

If you are in Dubai (including areas such as Deira, Bur Dubai, Al Barsha, Oud Metha, Karama, and Business Bay) or applying from abroad, the key is the same: follow the destination authority’s exact requirement and use the correct legal certification route.

Certified True Copy Meaning and Legal Use

A certified true copy is a copy that has been confirmed as a complete and accurate reproduction of the original document. It is used when an organization needs a reliable copy but does not want to handle or keep your original.

Certified true copies are often required for:

  • Immigration and residency applications abroad
  • Overseas employment background checks
  • University admissions outside the UAE
  • International banking and compliance requirements
  • Licensing or registration with foreign professional bodies

Common document examples include:

  • Passport and Emirates ID copies
  • Educational certificates and transcripts
  • Birth and marriage certificates
  • Company documents (trade licenses, resolutions, etc.)
  • Powers of attorney and supporting identity pages

A practical point that prevents delays: the receiving authority decides what is acceptable. Some organizations require certification by a lawyer, while others request notarization or specific UAE authority confirmation.

Who Can Certify a True Copy in the UAE

In the UAE, certified true copies must be stamped and signed only by authorized entities. The correct route depends on the document type and where it will be used.

Certification is typically handled through:

  • Licensed legal professionals (lawyers or legal consultants)
  • Authorized notaries (public or private) when notarization is required
  • Government channels in specific cases where official stamps are mandated

Important clarification for trust and compliance:
Benchmark Attestation services does not issue or certify true copies directly. Certification must be completed by the appropriate authorized professional or authority.

Our role is to provide professional assistance and coordination so applicants follow the correct legal process without confusion or repeated visits.

When Is a Certified True Copy Needed?

Certified true copies are commonly needed when:

  • You are instructed not to submit originals
  • Your original document is required for travel or daily use
  • The destination authority demands a certified copy for verification
  • Your document is part of an overseas application file

If the document is intended for use outside the UAE, additional legalization steps may sometimes apply depending on the destination country’s rules.

How the Process Works for Overseas Use

A simple and reliable way to approach overseas submissions is:

  • Confirm the destination requirement (who must certify the copy)
  • Get the document copy certified through the correct legal route
  • Prepare the document set exactly as requested
  • Complete further legalization only if the destination authority requires it

Common issues that cause delays include:

  • Cropped or unclear passport copies
  • Name spelling differences across documents
  • Missing back side of Emirates ID
  • Using the wrong certification type (lawyer vs notary requirement)

Our Role – Assistance and Coordination Only

Benchmark Attestation (via OnlineAttestation.com) does not provide certification directly.

What we do is support clients by coordinating with authorized professionals and ensuring documents are prepared correctly for overseas submission.

Our assistance typically includes:

  • Checking your destination requirement
  • Advising the correct certification route (lawyer, notary, or authority)
  • Coordinating document handling steps where applicable
  • Reviewing copy quality and completeness before submission
  • Guiding next steps only when required

Benefit: This approach reduces avoidable rejections, repeat visits, and wasted time—especially for strict international application standards.

Dubai Coverage and Common Use Cases

Applicants in Dubai often request certified true copies for:

  • Passport copy certification for foreign visa applications
  • Degree and transcript copies for universities abroad
  • Corporate document copies for international banking
  • Supporting civil documents for immigration files

Requests commonly come from across Dubai, including Deira, Bur Dubai, Karama, Oud Metha, Al Barsha, and Business Bay. This guide is written to reflect the real situations applicants face.

Official Reference and Legal Context

This guide is based on practical UAE documentation workflows and is cross-checked against public-facing official service guidance, including:

  • UAE legal and notarial regulations governing certification
  • UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs public documentation standards
  • Acceptance rules set by receiving authorities abroad

Requirements may change, so verifying the latest destination checklist is always recommended.

Need Help With the Next Step?

If your certified true copy is for use outside the UAE and you need help confirming the correct process or required documents, contact Benchmark Attestation for assistance.

Reviewed by: Attestation & legalization specialist (Benchmark team)
This guide is based on the team’s day-to-day experience and is updated regularly against official sources.
Last comprehensive review: January 28, 2026

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