Attestation
What Is a Certified True Copy in the UAE?
A certified true copy lets you submit copies of important documents while keeping your originals safe. Here is exactly what it is, who can certify one in the UAE, and when you will be asked for it.
What a certified true copy is
A certified true copy is a photocopy that an authorised professional has stamped and signed to confirm it is a genuine copy of the original document. In the UAE this is typically done by a partner lawyer or a chartered accountant. The certified set can then be submitted in place of your originals.
When you need one
- Bank account opening and KYC
- Company set-up and licensing
- University and school admissions
- Visa and government applications that ask for copies
- Keeping originals safe while several bodies need the document at once
Who can certify a copy
Not every notary or typing centre can issue a certified true copy that a given authority will accept. A partner lawyer or chartered accountant certifies the copy against your original. We arrange this and deliver the certified set, usually same day to one working day. See our certified true copy service.
Key takeaways
Key takeaways: A certified true copy is a professionally stamped copy that stands in for your original. It is used for banking, licensing, admissions and visas. Turnaround is usually same day to one working day.
Keeping your originals is the whole point of a certified true copy: you hand over a verified copy while the document itself stays with you, which matters when several banks or authorities want it at the same time.
Frequently asked questions
What is a certified true copy?
A photocopy stamped and signed by an authorised professional, a partner lawyer or chartered accountant, confirming it matches the original.
Is a certified true copy the same as attestation?
No. A certified copy confirms a copy matches the original; attestation is a chain of government stamps that legalises a foreign document for UAE use.
Who can certify a copy in the UAE?
A partner lawyer or a chartered accountant, depending on what the receiving authority accepts.
How long does it take?
Usually same day to one working day.
What does it cost?
A flat service fee, with any professional or government charge shown separately at cost.
Which documents are commonly certified?
Passports, Emirates IDs, degrees, contracts and company documents, for banks, licensing and admissions.
A note on scope: DocuGulf is a documentation facilitation service. All regulated work is performed by licensed notaries, translators, chartered accountants and approved typing centres, and we do not provide legal advice. Reach us at info@docugulf.com or +971 58 569 3628.