An equivalency certificate is an official document issued by the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) to confirm that a foreign qualification meets the country’s academic standards. This certificate is often required for employment, higher education, and professional licensing in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and education.

The UAE places a strong emphasis on maintaining a high standard of education, and equivalency certification ensures that degrees obtained abroad align with the UAE’s academic framework. Without this certification, foreign qualifications may not be accepted by employers or universities in the country.

Who Needs an Equivalency Certificate?

If you have obtained a degree or diploma from a foreign institution and wish to work, study, or settle in the UAE, you may need an equivalency certificate. It is especially necessary for:

  • Individuals seeking employment in government or regulated industries
  • Students applying for higher education in UAE universities
  • Professionals in fields requiring licenses, such as healthcare (e.g., Montgo Health), engineering, or education
  • Individuals applying for Golden Visas or long-term residency options that require education verification
  • Teachers, doctors, and engineers who need regulatory approval before practicing their profession in the UAE

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Required Documents

Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:

  1. Attested Academic Certificates – Your diploma or degree must be attested by the relevant authorities in the country of issuance, including:
    • The issuing university
    • The Ministry of Education in that country
    • The UAE embassy in that country
    • The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
  2. Transcripts – Official transcripts showing all subjects studied and grades obtained.
  3. Passport Copy – A valid passport with a UAE visa (if applicable).
  4. Emirates ID – Required if you are already residing in the UAE.
  5. Legal Translation – If your documents are not in Arabic or English, you may need a certified translation.
  6. Proof of Accreditation – Some applications may require proof that your university is accredited and recognized internationally.

how to apply for equivalency certificate in uae

Steps to Apply for an Equivalency Certificate

1. Verify Your Institution’s Accreditation

Before starting the process, check if your university is recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education. If your institution is not accredited, your application may be rejected. You can usually verify this on the UAE MoE website or by contacting them directly.

2. Attest Your Documents

Your academic documents must go through an attestation process in both the country of issuance and the UAE. This is a critical step to ensure that your documents are legitimate. Missing attestations can cause delays or rejections.

3. Create an Account on the MoE Website

Visit the official website of the UAE Ministry of Education and create an account. This will allow you to track your application status and receive updates.

4. Submit Your Application Online

  • Log in to your MoE account
  • Fill out the equivalency application form
  • Upload all required documents
  • Pay the applicable fees
  • Review your application for any errors before submitting

5. Attend an Interview or Submit Additional Documents (if required)

In some cases, the MoE may request additional documents or an interview. Ensure you respond promptly to avoid delays. If an interview is required, it will generally involve verifying the authenticity of your academic credentials.

6. Receive Your Equivalency Certificate

Once your application is approved, you will receive your equivalency certificate electronically. You can also request a hard copy if needed. The processing time can vary from a few weeks to a couple of months depending on the complexity of your case.

Ready to Start Your Medical Career in UAE?

Have questions about your medical license or facility setup? Contact us today and let’s make your journey seamless!

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

1. Delays in Attestation

Solution: Start the attestation process early and follow up with relevant authorities regularly. If you are unsure about the procedure, consider hiring a professional attestation service.

2. University Not Recognized

Solution: Contact the UAE MoE to check alternative solutions or additional requirements. In some cases, additional certifications or bridge courses may be required to meet equivalency standards.

3. Document Translation Issues

Solution: Use certified translation services recognized by the UAE authorities. Any incorrect or unofficial translation can lead to rejection.

4. Incomplete Documentation

Solution: Double-check all requirements before submission. Missing documents can result in delays or rejections.

How Montgo Health Can Help

If you are a healthcare professional, Montgo Health can assist you in navigating the equivalency certificate process, ensuring that you meet the necessary requirements for medical licensing and employment in the UAE. They offer guidance on document preparation, attestation services, and application submission.

Montgo Health understands the complexity of medical licensing in the UAE and works closely with healthcare professionals to ensure they have the correct documentation for their practice. From degree verification to professional licensing, Montgo Health simplifies the process so that healthcare workers can focus on their careers rather than bureaucratic hurdles.

 

 


Frequently Ask Questions

Q. How can I get an equivalency certificate in the UAE?

A. You need to attest your academic certificates, submit them online via the UAE Ministry of Education portal, pay the fees, and follow up on approval.

Q. How many days will it take for an equivalency certificate in the UAE?

A. The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on document verification, attestation delays, and additional requirements.

Q. Is an equivalency certificate required in the UAE for a job?

A. Yes, it is often required for government jobs, regulated professions (e.g., healthcare, engineering, teaching), and sometimes for private sector employment.

Q. What is the benefit of an equivalency certificate in UAE?

A. It ensures your foreign degree is officially recognized, allowing you to pursue employment, higher education, professional licensing, or residency applications.

Q. What is needed for equivalency?

A. You need attested academic certificates, transcripts, passport, Emirates ID, proof of accreditation, and in some cases, a certified translation of documents.

Q. What is a certificate of good conduct in UAE?

A. It is a police clearance certificate issued by UAE authorities, proving that an individual has no criminal record within the country.