The UAE’s Golden Visa scheme continues to attract high-net-worth investors, entrepreneurs, and business professionals seeking long-term residency. In 2025, the program remains one of the most sought-after residency options in the Gulf, offering up to 10 years of renewable residency, family sponsorship benefits, and the ability to own 100% of businesses in designated free zones.
For Australians applying under entrepreneur or investor categories, the key to approval lies in submitting fully legalised corporate records. Despite the UAE’s modernisation of residency procedures, the legalisation process for foreign documents has not changed — all Australian company constitutions, shareholder records, and board resolutions must undergo full legalisation before submission.
Why Legalised Corporate Records Are Essential for the Golden Visa
The UAE government verifies every applicant’s business background to ensure legitimacy and compliance with local regulations. For investor and entrepreneur categories, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) and relevant free zone authorities request:
- Company constitutions – confirming the structure and governance of the Australian entity.
- Shareholder registers and share certificates – verifying ownership and investment sources.
- Board resolutions – authorising the applicant’s investment or UAE company incorporation.
- Power of attorney (if representatives are involved) – proving delegation of authority.
If these records are not properly legalised, the Golden Visa application can face delays or outright rejection.
Why Apostille Is Not Accepted in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates is not a member of The Hague Apostille Convention, meaning an Apostille certificate alone is invalid for UAE authorities. Instead, the embassy attestation process remains mandatory for 2025.
The multi-step legalisation process involves:
- Notarisation by an Australian Notary Public – verifying original documents or issuing notarised copies with a Notarial Certificate.
- DFAT authentication – the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade issues an authentication certificate validating the notary’s signature and seal.
- UAE Embassy attestation in Canberra – final approval confirming the document’s validity for use in the UAE.
Only after completing all three stages will corporate documents be accepted by UAE authorities for Golden Visa applications.
How Authentifier Ensures Seamless Legalisation
Preparing legalised Australian corporate records for the UAE Golden Visa is a complex, time-sensitive process. Authentifier specialises in end-to-end management of this process, ensuring every document meets UAE requirements.
Our services include:
- Expert document review – we check for errors and inconsistencies before notarisation.
- Licensed Notary Public coordination – arranging notarisation and issuing Notarial Certificates.
- DFAT authentication submission – ensuring all documents receive valid authentication certificates.
- UAE Embassy attestation handling – we liaise directly with the embassy to expedite processing.
- Progress tracking and express services – keeping applicants updated at every step, ensuring no delays.
With our expertise, Australian business owners and investors can focus on planning their move while we handle the compliance-heavy paperwork. Start now!
