UAE baby registration: Here’s what to do if your child is born outside the Emirates

Parents in UAE must follow a defined legal process when their child is born outside the country/Representative Image

TL;DR:

UAE citizens must register births abroad within 30 days at the nearest UAE embassy to receive a returning document and update the child’s place in the family records.
Expatriate residents need an official birth certificate, then secure a passport and UAE entry visa via their home country’s embassy to bring the baby into the UAE.
The birth certificate requires MOHAP issuance, MOFA digital attestation, and, if needed, embassy-level authentication, used for documentation across education, healthcare, and legal services.

Parents in the UAE, whether citizens or expatriates, must follow a defined legal process when their child is born outside the country to ensure the child is officially recognized and can access healthcare, education, and residency services. The procedures differ slightly based on nationality but are clearly outlined by UAE authorities to ensure smooth registration and compliance.

Detailed guide: Registering a baby born outside the UAE

For UAE citizens:If you are a UAE national and your baby is born abroad, the following steps must be taken:

Obtain a local birth certificate from the country where the child was born.
Register the birth at the nearest UAE embassy or consulate within 30 days.
The embassy will issue a return document that allows the child to enter the UAE legally.
After returning, the child must be added to the family book (Khulasat Al Qaid).
Parents can also use TAMM’s “Birth Notification Management” digital service to manage this process.

This registration is necessary to complete identity documentation and include the child in official family records.For expatriate residents:If you are a resident expat in the UAE and your child is born abroad, here are the steps:

Register the child’s birth in the country of birth and obtain an official birth certificate.
Apply for the child’s passport from your country’s embassy or consulate.
Secure a UAE entry permit or visa for the child through the embassy to allow travel back to the UAE.
Once in the UAE, follow the usual procedures for:
- Obtaining a residency visa for the child via ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security).
- Applying for an Emirates ID.
- Registering the birth in UAE records if needed for long-term residency or documentation.

Birth certificate and attestation requirements in the UAE:

For all children, especially those who may require documentation for education or healthcare in the UAE:

The birth certificate must be digitally issued by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).
This certificate must be digitally attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
MOFA attestation is often processed automatically when using UAE digital platforms such as UAE Pass.
In some cases, parents may also need to get the document authenticated at the embassy or consulate of the country of birth, depending on local requirements.

Whether you’re a UAE citizen or an expatriate resident, registering a foreign-born child is a vital legal responsibility. UAE authorities have made the process more efficient with digital platforms like UAE Pass and services offered by MOHAP, MOFA, and TAMM. While UAE citizens must act within a strict 30-day window abroad, expats must ensure their child has a passport and valid visa before entry. Timely compliance ensures smooth access to services like healthcare, schooling, and residency.