Is It Compulsory to Attest a Birth Certificate from MOFA in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, attesting a birth certificate from MOFA is compulsory if the document is to be used for legal, immigration, or government purposes in Saudi Arabia.
1. When Is MOFA Attestation of a Birth Certificate Required?
MOFA attestation is mandatory for:
- ✅ Adding a child to the Iqama (residency permit)
- ✅ Applying for a dependent visa or family visa
- ✅ Registering a child in school
- ✅ Using a foreign-issued birth certificate in Saudi Arabia
2. Is MOFA Attestation Needed for Saudi-Issued Birth Certificates?
| Use Case | MOFA Attestation Needed? |
|---|---|
| Inside Saudi Arabia only | ❌ No (if issued by Civil Affairs) |
| For foreign embassies or use abroad | ✅ Yes |
| Immigration or family visa abroad | ✅ Yes |
3. Is MOFA Attestation Required for Foreign Birth Certificates?
✅ Yes, if the child is born outside Saudi Arabia, the birth certificate must be:
- Notarized by local authorities
- Attested by the Saudi Embassy in the issuing country
- Translated to Arabic by a certified translator
- Stamped by MOFA in Saudi Arabia
4. What Happens if You Skip MOFA Attestation?
- ❌ Application for dependent visa or Iqama will be rejected
- ❌ Legal status of the child may be unrecognized in government systems
- ❌ Access to healthcare, education, and residency services can be delayed
