Qatar Accepts Islamic Marriage Certificates – Service Update

Following an update from the Qatari Embassy, we can advise that Islamic Marriage Certificates can now be legalised for use in Qatar. There may be further requirements once you reach the country, but this is a step towards making things easier for those wishing to relocate to Qatar.

ByAshraf Vachhiat

July 9, 2020
May 24, 2021

X Facebook LinkedIn

These changes will be welcomed by many who will now avoid any delays and additional expenses that might have been incurred undertaking a civil ceremony in order to relocate to Qatar as an officially-recognised married couple.

Who will these changes affect?

Previously, those couples who had only celebrated a nikah, or Islamic wedding, were unable to use their existing marriage certificate for legalisation in Qatar. Instead, they would need to take part in a civil ceremony in order to obtain an official General Registry Office (GRO) certificate, issued by the UK government. This government-issued certificate would then be recognised by the Qatari Embassy in London and could be legalised.

Now, the nikah itself will be recognised by the Qatari Embassy, though the document must be in English, or dual-language in order to be accepted. We have however been advised that in some instances, if the document is in English only, you may be required to have this translated into Arabic once it has been verified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) when you reach Qatar. This is decided on a case-by-case basis – for more information please get in touch with us.

To read more about Islamic Marriage Certificates and where they will be accepted for legalisation please see our previous blog post here.

If you have documents you require legalising for use in Qatar, we can help. Simply visit our site and request a personalised quotation based on your requirements. You can also give us a call directly on +44 (0) 330 088 1142, send us a message via WhatsApp, or e-mail us at sales@vitalconsular.com. Our friendly team of specialists are on hand to answer all of your queries.

While you’re here, why not keep up to date with all the latest comings and goings by following us on social media?

Ashraf Vachhiat

Ashraf is the Marketing Technologist at Vital Consular, which means he handles all the technicalities involved in bringing this blog to life! He also enjoys creating in-depth articles around current affairs which impact the travel and relocation industry. In his free time, Ashraf relishes travelling as much as possible, and is always looking for quirky spots to take some great photos.

Articles: 137

Qatar National Day 2022 – 10 Qatar Facts You Didn’t Kno...

Ashraf Vachhiat
December 16, 2022

Want to know more about Qatar? We have a bunch of interesting facts you probably didn't know, so get learning about this ever-growing state.

Saudi Labour Law Changes Gives Expats More Freedom

Ashraf Vachhiat
November 16, 2021

With major changes being implemented in the Saudi Arabian employment market over the last few years, things have got increasingly more difficult for expats living there. New changes however are taking steps towards making life a little simpler for their foreign workforce.

Did Apostille Figures Drop in 2020? – Official Statistics

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 5, 2021

Due to the travel restrictions, lockdown measures and widespread reductions in workforces across the globe for the majority of the year, you would be forgiven for assuming that the need for Apostilles would have dropped drastically in 2020. We requested official figures from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and compared them to our own customer data,...

Christmas and New Year Opening Times 2020

Ashraf Vachhiat
December 17, 2020

Christmas time is almost here, so we wanted to let you know about our opening times over the festive period.

Travel updates from July 1st – Where you can travel abroad

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 28, 2020

Flights from the UK will expand in number and destinations from the beginning of July. With two of the largest European airlines resuming their flights from the 1st, as well as quarantine measures being dropped in the most popular tourist hot spots, we will certainly see a rise in holiday makers travelling overseas this summer.

Lockdown – Has it put people off travel and relocation?

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 14, 2020

Being in lockdown has affected everyone differently. With many people working from home, some people furloughed and others still on the front line, everyone has had to adapt. As travel restrictions have remained in place also, most holidays have been cancelled or postponed for the foreseeable future, but do people still want to travel after going...

Christmas and New Year Opening Times 2019

Ashraf Vachhiat
December 16, 2019

Christmas time is almost here, so we wanted to let you know about our opening times over the festive period.

Residence Visas for the Middle East – Signs the Freeze Has Be...

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 23, 2019

Last month, we published an article in response to many news stories which had began to circulate regarding the changes in residence visas, and how this could potentially affect expats in the Middle East.

The Middle Eastern Visa Freeze – How will this affect Expats?

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 18, 2019

Over the past few years, momentum has grown towards the nationalisation of job markets across the GCC and other parts of the Middle and Far East. This is intended to cut unemployment levels for nationals as well as improve prospects in higher paid positions. Which countries are attempting to reduce expat worker numbers, and how will...

Neom – Saudi’s Expat Capital of the Future?

Ashraf Vachhiat
March 28, 2019

In the first quarter of 2019, Saudi Arabia's new mega-city named Neom, or "The Red Sea Project", commenced construction. The vision of Saudi's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, this new centre of commerce and high-end tourism covers over 10, 000 square miles. With the aim to establish Neom as a hotspot for business, expats and tourists...

Philippines Enters The Hague Apostille Convention

Ashraf Vachhiat
February 14, 2019

On 14th May 2019, the Philippines will become an effective member state of the Apostille Agreement, part of the Hague Convention. This will mean that for many people wishing to legalise documents for use in the Philippines, the current process of seals and red ribbons applied by the Embassies worldwide will be a thing of the...

Chinese New Year 2019 – Embassy Closures

Ashraf Vachhiat
January 31, 2019

The 5th of February 2019 marks the beginning of Chinese New Year. During this period, there will be some temporary closures of government departments, with the Chinese Embassy in London closed on the 4th and 5th of February to signify the start of the celebrations.

Qatar Backs Draft Law for Permanent Residencies

Ashraf Vachhiat
June 1, 2018

A new law which would allow non-Qataris to apply for permanent residence has moved forward another step. The changes were first mentioned last August, but have come closer to fruition this week as the Advisory Council approved the new legislation.

Be Prepared for Delays Around Eid ul-Fitr 2018

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 30, 2018

Being prepared for the closures around Eid in June will save a lot of stress for any soon-to-be expats dealing with governmental departments, at the Embassy in either their home country or in the destination country.

World Museum Day – Some of the Most Unique Museums Across the...

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 18, 2018

In 1977, the International Council of Museums adopted May 18th as World Museum Day. The celebration is meant to bring focus to the hundreds of thousands of museums all over the globe, encouraging people through their doors to enjoy something new and aid the museums in keeping their displays open and accessible to the public.

Saudi Arabia Blocks Expats From 12 Work Sectors

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 7, 2018

In a series of phased changes to employment legislation starting September 2018 and running to January 2019, Saudi Arabia will prevent expats from being employed in 12 sectors. These are mainly retail-based roles, with an aim to boost employment opportunities for the Saudi population.

Preparing for delays around Ramadan 2018

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 10, 2018

Currently the Holy month of Ramadan is forecast to fall between Tuesday 18th May and Thursday 14th June in 2018, although this is subject to change. One thing can be certain however – government departments in the Arab world and their respective Embassies across the globe will have closures and altered operating times as a […]

UAE Suspends Good Conduct Certificate Requirement

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 2, 2018

In an about-turn from their notification earlier this year, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFA) has now issued a directive to all Embassies worldwide that from the 1st April they are postponing the requirement for Good Conduct Certificates to be provided when applying for a UAE Residence Visa.

Tension Between Qatar and its Neighbours Shows No Sign of Easing

Ashraf Vachhiat
June 19, 2017

On June 5th, a conglomerate of Gulf countries took unprecedented action against the State of Qatar, and ceased all diplomatic relations with the gas-rich country. This lead to the immediate removal of Qatari diplomats from a number of nations, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt and Bahrain, as well as the complete shutdown of land and air...

Vital Certificates Named As Finalist In Amazon Growing Business Awards

Ashraf Vachhiat
October 3, 2016

We are proud to announce that Vital Certificates has been named a finalist in the 2016 Amazon Growing Business Awards. Nominated within the Triumph Over Adversity category, the company demonstrated its ability to both triple in size to revenues of over £1m, and expand internationally when it opened its first overseas branch in Dubai last year,...

Jordanian Legalisation: A Guide

Declan Ramsden
March 24, 2023

Want to know the easiest way to legalise your documents for use in Jordan? Read this blog.

Distance Learning Part 2 – Do Overseas Employers Accept Onlin...

Ashraf Vachhiat
September 12, 2019

Last time we turned the spotlight on online and distance learning qualifications, we identified which foreign embassies wouldn't accept these for legalisation. This could deter candidates from even applying for positions overseas in both Qatar and Saudi Arabia. But are online degrees accepted by overseas employers? And if so, is there any way for someone with...

Online Qualifications – Which Embassies Won’t Accept Them?

Ashraf Vachhiat
August 9, 2019

Have you received any online qualifications from the Open University, or any other distance learning program? It's possible that the document will not be accepted by certain foreign embassies.

Education document attestation for Saudi Arabia – the SACB

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 4, 2018

Degrees and college awards for use in Saudi Arabia must be verified by the SACB before the attestation, also known as legalisation, process can begin. Read how to get this initial stage completed, as well as the full attestation procedure.

How to Legalise an Education Document for China

Ashraf Vachhiat
June 29, 2017

Are you trying to legalise your education documents for use in China? We understand this process can seem complicated, that's why we’re here to help with our step by step guide on the process.

Changing Your Name On A UK Birth Certificate

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 24, 2021

We often have customers who get in touch requesting an updated copy of their birth certificate if there have been changes to their name. Whilst changes to the original birth registration is, in some cases, possible, these are exceptional circumstances. In most situations, you don't need to make changes to it.

Getting Married Abroad Part 2 – How to find a lost overseas m...

Declan Ramsden
April 22, 2021

Previously, we explored the requirements for getting married overseas and the various steps you need to consider to ensure your nuptials go off without a hitch! But what if you, or your family members, were married abroad a number of years ago and you require a copy of the marriage certificate? How easy is it to...

UK Birth, Marriage and Death Certificates now available in the UAE

Ashraf Vachhiat
November 5, 2017

In the UAE and don’t have access to your birth certificate? Maybe you’ve just moved to a new job and want to call your spouse over, but they’re tearing their hair out looking for your Marriage Certificate! Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Canada joining The Hague Apostille Convention: What does it mean?

Declan Ramsden
July 5, 2023

Canada are joining the Hague Apostille Convention, which is going to have a big impact on those looking to move over there or do trade with the country.

Bahrain Document Legalisation: Getting documents ready for Bahrain

Declan Ramsden
April 5, 2023

If you ever need to present your documents in Bahrain, you'll need to put them through the document legalisation process first.

Are Apostille services legit? How to look out for scams

Declan Ramsden
April 4, 2023

There are loads of companies out there offering Apostille services - but how do you know whether they're legitimate or not? We take a look at the scams that are circulating and how you can tell if your Apostille is the real deal.

Legalising documents for use in Iraq: What’s the process?

Declan Ramsden
April 4, 2023

Starting a new life in Iraq? Before you can make the move, you'll need to get through the document legalisation process.

Getting married abroad: The administrative side

Declan Ramsden
April 3, 2023

When you dream of getting married abroad you're thinking of sandy beaches, romantic sunsets and idyllic seas. You aren't thinking about the boring, administrative process. Unfortunately, though, you can't have one without the other!

How do I legalise my documents for use in Kuwait?

Declan Ramsden
March 31, 2023

Kuwait document legalisation can be a tricky process, but there's no way around it - you need to get it done if you're wanting to present your documents in Kuwait. This blog talks about the most stress-free way to legalise documents for use in Kuwait.

Jordanian Legalisation: A Guide

Declan Ramsden
March 24, 2023

Want to know the easiest way to legalise your documents for use in Jordan? Read this blog.

Qatar Legalisation: How to legalise your documents for use in Qatar

Declan Ramsden
March 24, 2023

Legalising documents for use in Qatar can be a complicated process. There are so many steps and hoops you need to jump through, but don't worry. We'll give you a really easy solution in this blog.

Saudi Legalisation: How do I legalise my documents for Saudi Arabia?

Declan Ramsden
March 22, 2023

If you're planning on moving to Saudi Arabia, you'll need to know about the Saudi legalisation process. You won't be able to move over without it. Find out the most efficient way to legalise your documents for use in Saudi in this blog.

Vital Consular: Your International Legalisation Office

Declan Ramsden
March 13, 2023

If you're looking for somewhere to get your documents legalised, you've come to the right place. Here at Vital Consular we can legalise any documents you need!

A Dummies Guide to: Legalisation

Declan Ramsden
August 2, 2022

If you have no idea what legalisation is or how it works, you're in the right place!

True cost to legalise a document

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 8, 2022

At Vital Consular, we pride ourselves on being honest and transparent. We regularly receive amazing feedback from customers who have not only saved a lot of time and money using our services, but have appreciated the confidence our friendly and professional team have given them. In this article, we wanted to give true costs of doing...

Spanish Non-Lucrative Visas From The UK – Ultimate Help Guide

Ashraf Vachhiat
August 9, 2021

Relocating to Spain can feel like a confusing process when you have so many documents to gather. Even if you've been living there for a while, changes in status due to Brexit is leaving lots of people in an urgent situation trying to apply for their residence visas in order to stay in the country. Here...

Medical Letters For Residency Visas – Step-by-Step Guide on L...

Ashraf Vachhiat
July 23, 2021

As COVID restrictions begin to ease, migration is on the rise now that travel is becoming possible again. With Brexit causing paperwork nightmares for many expats, gathering necessary medical documents for the move has become a stressful task for many. Here we explain why, as well as how you can get your paperwork through as quickly...

Does your name differ on your documents? Avoid them being rejected ...

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 2, 2020

If you are having your documents legalised for use overseas, you may run into issues if your name differs between your document and your official ID. This could vary for a host of reasons, including marriage, divorce, Deed Poll or simply not including your full name. To avoid experiencing delays and additional costs, this article will...

Intellectual Property – Do you have the correct legal procedu...

Ashraf Vachhiat
October 17, 2019

Trading overseas is often the next step for entrepreneurs looking to expand their markets to new audiences. You may have an idea or product which you've specifically designed to target an audience abroad, but prefer to conduct your business in a different country. Whatever your business setup, it's important to understand that your Intellectual Property is...

Who can witness a Power of Attorney in the UK – Solicitor or ...

Ashraf Vachhiat
September 26, 2019

A Power of Attorney, or POA, is a legal document which transfers authority to act from one group or individual, to another. Learn about they do, and what is required for these documents to be legally accepted overseas,

Certified or Notarised Translation – Which Do You Require?

Ashraf Vachhiat
June 20, 2019

A document often has to undergo translation if being used for any official purpose in an overseas country. If you were married abroad and didn't have an English version produced at the time, or are travelling to a country and require your English certificate for identification purposes, it can get confusing very quickly. Here we look...

Certified or Notarised – What’s the Difference?

Ashraf Vachhiat
February 11, 2019

When it comes to legalisation, unfamiliar terminology can often cause confusion to those who are not well versed in the processes involved. Some terms, such as "legalisation" and "attestation" can be used interchangeably, but essentially mean the same thing. Others, such as "certified copy" and "notarised copy", require a clear distinction and can be the difference...

Canada joining The Hague Apostille Convention: What does it mean?

Declan Ramsden
July 5, 2023

Canada are joining the Hague Apostille Convention, which is going to have a big impact on those looking to move over there or do trade with the country.

Bahrain Document Legalisation: Getting documents ready for Bahrain

Declan Ramsden
April 5, 2023

If you ever need to present your documents in Bahrain, you'll need to put them through the document legalisation process first.

Are Apostille services legit? How to look out for scams

Declan Ramsden
April 4, 2023

Legalising documents for use in Iraq: What’s the process?

Declan Ramsden
April 4, 2023

Starting a new life in Iraq? Before you can make the move, you'll need to get through the document legalisation process.

Getting married abroad: The administrative side

Declan Ramsden
April 3, 2023

How do I legalise my documents for use in Kuwait?

Declan Ramsden
March 31, 2023

Jordanian Legalisation: A Guide

Declan Ramsden
March 24, 2023

Want to know the easiest way to legalise your documents for use in Jordan? Read this blog.

Qatar Legalisation: How to legalise your documents for use in Qatar

Declan Ramsden
March 24, 2023

Legalising documents for use in Qatar can be a complicated process. There are so many steps and hoops you need to jump through, but don't worry. We'll give you a really easy solution in this blog.

Saudi Legalisation: How do I legalise my documents for Saudi Arabia?

Declan Ramsden
March 22, 2023

Vital Consular: Your International Legalisation Office

Declan Ramsden
March 13, 2023

If you're looking for somewhere to get your documents legalised, you've come to the right place. Here at Vital Consular we can legalise any documents you need!

A Dummies Guide to: Legalisation

Declan Ramsden
August 2, 2022

If you have no idea what legalisation is or how it works, you're in the right place!

True cost to legalise a document

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 8, 2022

Spanish Non-Lucrative Visas From The UK – Ultimate Help Guide

Ashraf Vachhiat
August 9, 2021

Medical Letters For Residency Visas – Step-by-Step Guide on L...

Ashraf Vachhiat
July 23, 2021

Does your name differ on your documents? Avoid them being rejected ...

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 2, 2020

Intellectual Property – Do you have the correct legal procedu...

Ashraf Vachhiat
October 17, 2019

Who can witness a Power of Attorney in the UK – Solicitor or ...

Ashraf Vachhiat
September 26, 2019

Certified or Notarised Translation – Which Do You Require?

Ashraf Vachhiat
June 20, 2019

Certified or Notarised – What’s the Difference?

Ashraf Vachhiat
February 11, 2019

Police Clearance Now Required in the State of Qatar

Ashraf Vachhiat
October 26, 2015

British Nationals applying for a Qatari residence permit, work permit, transfer of sponsorship, Ministry registration, or for any other reason will be required to provide a valid Legalised Police Clearance Certificate from the UK in order to obtain their Qatari Certificate of Good Conduct.

Legalisation for Thailand – The Complete Guide

Ashraf Vachhiat
December 6, 2019

Thailand is becoming an increasingly popular expat destination, especially for those wishing to teach ESL (English as a Second Language). Due to changes brought in by the government in May 2018 which now require all documents to be legalised in-country before travelling to Thailand, we've put together a complete guide on these processes.

Travelling to Vietnam – What if the name on your documents do...

Declan Ramsden
January 4, 2024

When you're presenting documents in Vietnam, the names on them need to match the name on your passport. But what if this isn't the case?

The Vietnam Legalisation Process: How to legalise your documents

Declan Ramsden
April 26, 2023

Moving to Vietnam is an exciting experience, but the document legalisation process can throw a spanner in the works. Don't worry, though - this blog will tell you everything you need to know about it!

Does your name differ on your documents? Avoid them being rejected ...

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 2, 2020

Teaching in Vietnam – How To Legalise Your Documents

Ashraf Vachhiat
February 28, 2020

Vietnam continues to gain the attention of those looking for a location to teach ESL, for the beautiful landscapes, friendly people and cost of living being low compared to other locations. As a legalisation for Vietnam specialist, we have extensive experience in helping those looking to start a new adventure.

Moving To Dubai From UK – 101 Insider Tips You Need To Know

Ashraf Vachhiat
March 16, 2023

As exciting as it is moving to the Middle East, it's normal to feel a bit nervy! It's a massive change of lifestyle. As it happens, every member of staff at our Dubai office is an expat from somewhere around the globe, so we asked them if they had any tips for those looking to make...

Attesting UK documents for the UAE – all you need to know

Ashraf Vachhiat
March 3, 2023

If you dream of living in the sunshine with beaches on your doorstep, then you might be considering moving to the UAE, a place renowned for it glamorous social scene, year-round sun and large expat community. But before you pack your suitcase it’s important to understand the paperwork involved in moving abroad whether it’s for work...

What Can Go Wrong With UAE Attestation?

Declan Ramsden
May 25, 2022

Legalisation is a tricky subject - it's easy to slip up and make a mistake. This article, the second in our Legalisation Fixers series, should help you avoid a few of the pitfalls of legalisation.

Abu Dhabi or Dubai: which Emirate is for you when moving to the UAE...

Ashraf Vachhiat
December 8, 2021

Dubai has always been the forerunner in expat destinations in the United Arab Emirates, as well as a tourist hotspot in the GCC. However, it's neighbour has more than enough opportunities to tempt new talent and offers a different pace of life. Check out our 2-part series on these two Emirates and see which one suits...

Getting A UAE Police Clearance Certificate – The Complete Guide

Ashraf Vachhiat
January 23, 2020

If you previously lived in the United Arab Emirates and have since relocated to a new country, you will likely need to provide a UAE Police Clearance Certificate for your new residence permit or work visa. Obtaining these from overseas can be a pain, but it doesn't have to be complicated, as our Dubai team provides...

Driving as an expat – can I use my UK license abroad?

Ashraf Vachhiat
October 24, 2019

If you're moving overseas you may be thinking about how you're going to get around whilst you're there. Some people who live in a city are more than happy to rely on public transport, which you might find is vastly superior to services in your own country! But if you need to drive, can you use...

UK-Issued Islamic Marriage Certificates – Where Are They Reco...

Ashraf Vachhiat
January 31, 2019

At present, Islamic marriages are not recognised as legally binding by UK law. This is out of step with many other religious ceremonies which are recognised such as Jewish and Quaker marriages. Unless the married couple go on to seek a civil ceremony, their marriage is not considered legal and will miss out on rights enjoyed...

UAE Suspends Good Conduct Certificate Requirement

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 2, 2018

UK Birth, Marriage and Death Certificates now available in the UAE

Ashraf Vachhiat
November 5, 2017

Five Great Reasons To Move to Dubai

Ashraf Vachhiat
October 13, 2015

Winter is coming. The days are getting shorter, skies are getting gloomier, and the sun's packed up and gone south for the next 6 months. As you stare out of your office window and see nothing but a sea of grey, don't you wish you could be somewhere warmer, sunnier and more full of life?

Qatar Legalisation: How to legalise your documents for use in Qatar

Declan Ramsden
March 24, 2023

Legalising documents for use in Qatar can be a complicated process. There are so many steps and hoops you need to jump through, but don't worry. We'll give you a really easy solution in this blog.

Can a Distance Education Certificate be Attested for use in Qatar?

Ashraf Vachhiat
March 1, 2021

When deciding on a degree course to study, your main focus is choosing a quality provider and ensuring that the structure of study will fit in with your life. With so many adults deciding to re-train or boost their expertise around current jobs or family commitments, distance learning qualifications are becoming more and more popular. But...

Qatar Accepts Islamic Marriage Certificates – Service Update

Ashraf Vachhiat
July 9, 2020

Chinese Application Form For Legalisation- Complete Step By Step Guide

Ashraf Vachhiat
September 16, 2021

If you need to get your documents legalised for a job in China, you will need to complete the official application form. This can be confusing and is full of pitfalls, which can cause rejection once you attend your appointment. Follow our easy step-by-step guide on how to complete the Chinese application form here to avoid...

Does your name differ on your documents? Avoid them being rejected ...

Ashraf Vachhiat
April 2, 2020

Getting A Job In China – Complete Guide To Paperwork

Ashraf Vachhiat
January 31, 2020

As a legalisation and visa company, we have extensive experience in helping clients with the paperwork required to obtain their dream jobs in China. We've been dealing with documentation for China since 2006, and our expertise in handling TEFL qualifications is unrivalled in the industry. Below, our team have put together a complete guide for you...

The UK Legalisation Process for China Is Changing – New Costs...

Ashraf Vachhiat
November 28, 2019

As of the 8th of November 2019, the process for legalising UK documents for China has changed. There have also been increases in the costs levied by the Chinese authorities as well as where the documents are handled. We have updated our full guide on these procedures which you can read here, but the following posts...

How to Legalise an Education Document for China

Ashraf Vachhiat
June 29, 2017

Are you trying to legalise your education documents for use in China? We understand this process can seem complicated, that's why we’re here to help with our step by step guide on the process.

Who will these changes affect?

Ashraf Vachhiat

Related Posts

Leave a ReplyCancel Reply

Popular Topics

Qatar

Teaching TEFL

Police Clearance Documents

China

UAE

Education Documents

Other Topics

Stay up to date...