MOFA, which stands for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is a significant government agency in Saudi Arabia. MOFA attestation in Saudi Arabia is necessary for various reasons such as studying abroad, applying for visas, or starting a business.
Starting a business or job in Saudi Arabia can seem daunting, but with the right resources and guidance, it can be a smooth process.
Its primary role is to oversee and implement the Kingdom’s foreign policy objectives and maintain diplomatic relations with other countries.
The MOFA office in Saudi Arabia is responsible for providing services to citizens and foreigners alike.
These services include visa issuance, attestation of documents, and consular services.
Registration Steps for MOFA account
Registering with MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) in Saudi Arabia’s website is a simple process.
It is mandatory for all expatriates living in the country, including new arrivals, to register with the ministry.
Registering on the website provides expatriates with a range of benefits, including the ability to renew their residence permit, apply for exit/re-entry visas, and more.
To start the registration process, expatriates must
- Visit the MOFA website
- Click on the “Register” button.
- Create a username and password.
- Click on Register
- You will receive email click activate from email.
- After completing the registration process, expatriates can log in to the MOFA website and access a range of services.
These services include applying for an exit/re-entry visa, renewing their residence permit, and checking the status of their application.
It is important to note that failure to register with MOFA can lead to fines and other penalties.
Therefore, it is essential for expatriates to complete the registration process as soon as possible.
You can also check our guide on Family Visit Visa on MOFA.
Documents Required
Make sure you fulfill all the below requirements before visiting the MOFA office for document attestation;
- MOFA Appointment print.
- Arabic translation of documents.
- Original Iqama.
- Foreign documents (degree, marriage certificate) must be attested by the Saudi Embassy.
- If there are letters issued by employers, they must be stamped by the chamber of commerce.
Documents Verification from MOFA
Authenticating documents in MOFA Saudi Arabia is necessary for various reasons such as studying abroad, applying for visas, or starting a business.
Without authentication, your documents may not be recognized as legal, causing unnecessary delays and complications in your plans.
Notarization by a Notary Public
The first step in authenticating your documents is to get them notarized by a Notary Public.
The Notary Public will verify the authenticity of your documents and place a stamp and seal on them.
This step is important because it proves that your documents are genuine and were not forged or altered.
Attestation from MOFA
After notarization, you must get your documents attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Saudi Arabia.
MOFA will check the notarization stamp and seal and verify its authenticity.
Once MOFA has verified the notarization, they will place their own stamp and signature on the documents.
Attestation from Embassy
The final step is to get your documents attested by the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to use them.
For example, if you plan to study abroad, you must get your documents attested by the embassy or consulate of the country where you will be studying.
This step is important because it proves that your documents are recognized by the country where you plan to use them.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your documents are recognized as legal and genuine. This is a mandatory procedure that verifies the authenticity of your documents and ensures that they meet the standards set by the Saudi government.
Book an Appointment for Attestation
Attesting documents is a crucial step for those planning to work or study abroad.
For those in Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is the designated authority for attesting documents.
However, booking an appointment for attestation can be a daunting task for many.
In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of booking an appointment for attestation of documents in MOFA Saudi Arabia.
Step 1: Visit the MOFA website
The first step in booking an appointment for attestation is to visit the MOFA website. The website has a dedicated section for attestation services, which can be accessed by clicking on the “eServices” tab on the top menu bar.
Step 2: Select the type of service
Once you have accessed the attestation services section, you will be presented with a list of services. Select the type of service you require, such as attestation of educational documents or Ratification appointment.
Step 3: Fill out the application form
After selecting the type of service, you will be directed to an application form. Fill out the form with accurate information, including Branch name as Riyadh, Dammam etc., Nationality, your name, contact details, Passport number/ID/Residence and email. Make sure to double-check all the details before submitting the form.
Step 4: Add new Document
Click on Add new Document, choose document type which you want to attest and number of documents to be attested. Click Send.
Step 5: Pay the fees
After add documents, pay fee by clicking, you will be directed to a payment page. Pay the fees using the available payment options.
On appointment page there in Invoice number for payment
You can do from Al-Rajhi bank by Login>Payments> One-time payment> Government services> 101-MOFA> Enter Invoice number>Confirmation
You can also pay fee from SNB by Login>Payments> One-time Bill payment> Government agencies> 101-MOFA> Enter Invoice number>Confirmation
Step:6 Choose an appointment date
Once you have submitted the fee, you will be directed to a New Appointment section which displaying available appointment calendar with dates. Choose a date that suits you, and confirm the appointment.
Don’t forget to take and bring print of both slips.
Step 6: Attend the appointment
On the day of your appointment, make sure to arrive at the MOFA office on time. Bring all the required documents, including the original and copies of the document you want to attest, as well as your passport or national ID.
By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a hassle-free experience and get your documents attested in no time.
How to Refund Fee of MOFA
In case you want to cancel appointment or want to refund fee go to Inquiry section
- Go to Ratification service.
- Click on Apostille certificate.
- Then Click on Apostille certificate fee refund
- Enter Identification number and order number
- Click entrance.
- Then Enter OTP and click on Refund money.
- You will get message and refund in 3 days.
MOFA Branches and Location
You can also visit branches of MOFA offices in your area.
Like as MOFA Riyadh, MOFA Dammam or MOFA Jeddah.
You will get a token from counters for companies and individuals.
Timing depends on regions of Saudi, mostly open from Sunday to Thursday from 8:00 A.M to 4:30 P.M.
However, the best time to visit MOFA is early morning.
If you don’t want to visit or do online, simply you can send your documents from Saudi Post by paying MOFA attestation fee then visit office of post and pay fee. It takes 2 to 10 days to be done.
Checking Verification Details
If you are planning to travel to Saudi Arabia for work or study, you will need to have your documents attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Once you have submitted your documents for attestation, you will need to check the status of your application to ensure that everything is going smoothly.
MOFA has made it easy for applicants to track the status of their attestation applications online.
Here are the steps to check the status of attestation of documents in MOFA Saudi Arabia:
- Click on Enter the document authentication system
- If your application is still under process, the status will be displayed as “Under Process.”
- If your documents have been attested, the status will be displayed as “Attested.”
In case you encounter any issues or have any inquiries about the attestation process, you can contact MOFA through their customer service channels.
Conclusion
Registering with MOFA’s website in Saudi Arabia is a straightforward process that provides expatriates with a range of benefits. By following the above steps, expatriates can ensure that they comply with the country’s regulations and enjoy a hassle-free stay in the country. The process of authenticating documents in MOFA Saudi Arabia involves three steps: notarization by a Notary Public, attestation by MOFA, and attestation by the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to use the documents.
F.A.Q’s
How can I check my KSA visa status with passport number?
In order to check Saudi Visa status with the passport number MOFA website, Open Select “Citizens and Residents”. Inquiry Type: Visa Application.
How many days will take to get MOFA number in Saudi Arabia?
It usually takes a week or less for the approval status to be reflected in the MOFA portal after the application form is signed and stamped by the sponsor.
How can I get my MOFA number in Saudi Arabia?
All visa applicants are required to complete the online application form, once the form is submitted, a print copy of the form with the MOFA number/ reference number needs to be submitted along with the necessary documents.
How much Mofa attestation in Saudi Arabia cost?
It mostly cost 30 SAR per document
How many days proces get attestation for Offer Letter or Contract from MOFA?
Thank You