How to Get a Degree Equivalency Certificate in the UAE (MOE/MoHESR)
A degree equivalency certificate is also called a recognition certificate. It confirms that a qualification you earned outside the UAE is valid. It also confirms that it meets UAE standards. You often need it for government and semi-government jobs. You also need it for regulated professions, such as education, engineering, and healthcare licensing. You may need it for higher studies in the UAE, and for academic Golden Visa routes. University degrees go through the equivalency portal of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR). School certificates go through the Ministry of Education (MOE). Fees and processing times change. Check them on the portal before you apply.
At a glance
- Cost:
- Varies — confirm fees on the portal
- Total time:
- Varies — confirm processing time on the portal
- Steps:
- 6 steps
- Where to apply:
- mohesr.gov.ae
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(October 2026).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go Self-check
Confirm you need equivalency
You usually need equivalency for government and semi-government jobs. You also need it for regulated professions, higher studies, and academic Golden Visa routes. Private companies do not always ask for it. Check what your employer or licensing body really needs before you start.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare Weeks
Complete the attestation chain
Before you apply, your degree usually needs attestation. First, it is attested in the country that issued it, by a notary or ministry. Next, the UAE embassy in that country attests it. Last, MOFA attests it inside the UAE. Missing attestation is one of the most common reasons an application is rejected. Check the exact attestation rules for your qualification on the portal.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare Weeks
Arrange qualification verification
The ministry may ask for Primary Source Verification. This means your degree is checked directly with the university that issued it. The check is done through an approved provider, DataFlow or QuadraBay. If the ministry asks for this check and you do not complete it, your certificate will not be issued.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Same day Varies — confirm on the portal
Submit the application online
Apply on the MoHESR equivalency portal if you have a university degree. Log in with UAE Pass. Apply on the MOE portal if you have a school certificate. Upload clear scans of your documents. Enter your university details and your academic records. Pay the application fee. The portal shows the exact list of documents and the fee for your qualification.
Click to mark as done
- Wait Varies — confirm on the portal
Application review
The ministry checks your application. It may contact your university to check that your degree is real. It also checks accreditation, how long you studied, and how you studied. Reply fast if the ministry asks you for more information or more proof. Processing times change. Check the current timeline on the portal.
Click to mark as done
- Receive On approval
Receive the equivalency certificate
When your application is approved, your certificate is issued in digital form. Download it. Keep it with your degree. You will need it for job, licensing, and visa applications.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in the UAE without equivalency?
Yes, in many private-sector jobs. Employers do not always ask for it. Government and semi-government employers usually ask for it. So do regulated professions.
Are online / distance-learning degrees recognised?
They may be accepted, but your application will be checked first. Before you apply, check on the portal if your way of studying and your institution are recognised.
What if my application is rejected?
Check the reason for the rejection on the portal. Fix the problem. It is usually about attestation, verification, or a document that does not match. Then apply again. Reply fast when the ministry asks you for more information. This helps you avoid long delays.
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