Sometimes, a simple written statement is not enough. If you need to formally declare facts, confirm information or submit a statement for an official purpose, you may be asked for an affidavit.
In the UAE, affidavits and other declarations can be formally authenticated through the relevant notarial or judicial authorities. The UAE Ministry of Justice, for example, provides an “Application of affidavits and authentication” service for individuals.
What Is an Affidavit?
An affidavit is a formal written statement in which a person declares that the information they have provided is true. Depending on the purpose, it may be submitted to a court, government authority, institution or another organisation.
It is different from an ordinary letter or declaration because the document may need to be formally authenticated or made before an authorised notary or relevant authority.
When Might You Need an Affidavit?
The exact requirement depends on why you are preparing the document and which authority will receive it.
An affidavit or formal declaration may be needed for matters involving:
- Personal or family information
- Legal proceedings
- Financial declarations
- Authorisations and certain legal matters
- Documents required by government authorities
- Documents that need to be used outside the UAE
The UAE Government also lists public attestation services for declarations such as proof of kinship, acknowledgment of parentage, financial declarations and other personal statements requiring official authentication.
What Documents Do You Need?
Requirements can vary depending on the type of affidavit and the authority handling it.
For the UAE Ministry of Justice’s affidavit and authentication service, applicants may need identification, identification of witnesses and documents related to the case or matter. Documents issued outside the UAE must also be duly authenticated where applicable.
This is why it is important to check the requirements before preparing or submitting an affidavit.
How Does the Process Work?
The process depends on the type of document and the authority involved. For the Ministry of Justice service, the application can be submitted electronically. The published process includes signing in with UAE PASS, submitting the application, paying the applicable fees and receiving the certificate or document.
The UAE’s notarial system also allows several legal documents and declarations to be handled through digital judicial platforms, depending on the service and circumstances.
Do You Need Affidavit Typing Services?
Getting the wording and format right is an important first step. An affidavit should clearly state the facts being declared and should match the requirements of the authority receiving it.
A professional typing service can help prepare the document based on the information and requirements you provide. However, typing the document does not by itself make it legally authenticated. The appropriate authentication or notarisation process must still be completed where required.
Conclusion
Whether you need an affidavit for a personal, legal or official matter, preparing the correct document is the first step. Understanding the purpose and authentication requirements can help you avoid unnecessary corrections or delays.
Need help preparing an affidavit in the UAE? Contact Levin Global Services for professional typing and document assistance.
