How to Apostille a Document in India – Step-by-Step Guide 2025

 

How to Apostille a Document in India – Complete Guide 2025

Are you planning to work, study, or settle abroad? If yes, then apostilling your documents is a crucial step. But many people don’t know how to apostille a document in India or why it's necessary. This blog provides a clear and updated guide to help you understand the entire apostille process in India in 2025.

What is Apostille?

Before diving into how to apostille a document in India, let’s understand what an apostille means.

An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the signature and seal of a public document. It is accepted by countries that are part of the Hague Convention of 1961. Once apostilled, your document is legally valid in all Hague member countries without the need for further embassy legalization.

When Do You Need Apostille in India?

You need apostille certification when you are:

  • Applying for a student visa

  • Planning to work abroad

  • Getting married in a foreign country

  • Immigrating for PR

  • Setting up a business overseas

Types of Documents Eligible for Apostille

To know how to apostille a document in India, you must first identify which documents qualify:

  1. Educational Documents

    • Degree Certificates

    • Diplomas

    • Mark sheets

  2. Personal Documents

    • Birth Certificate

    • Marriage Certificate

    • Affidavits

    • Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

  3. Commercial Documents

    • Power of Attorney

    • Memorandum of Association

    • Export/Import papers

How to Apostille a Document in India – Step-by-Step Process

Here’s the updated step-by-step guide on how to apostille a document in India:

Step 1: Notarization (If Required)

Some documents may require notarization before submission.

Step 2: State Authentication

For educational or personal documents, the state-level authority (like HRD or Home Department) may need to verify the document.

Step 3: Submission to MEA

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, is the only authorized body to issue apostilles in India. You cannot apply directly as an individual—you must go through an authorized apostille agent or service provider.

Step 4: Apostille Sticker Issued

Once the MEA verifies the document, an apostille sticker (a square-shaped computer-generated label) is affixed on the back of the original document.

Documents Required for Apostille in India

To apostille your document, you will typically need:

  • Original document

  • Photocopy of the document

  • Passport copy of the applicant

  • Authorization letter (if applying via an agent)

How Long Does It Take to Apostille a Document in India?

  • Normal Processing Time: 3 to 5 working days

  • Urgent/Express Services: 1 to 2 working days (available through agencies)

What is the Cost of Apostille in India?

Government fee by MEA is ₹50 per document. However, the overall cost may range from ₹500 to ₹2500, depending on:

  • The type of document

  • Processing time

  • Service provider charges

Where Can You Apostille Documents in India?

You can apostille documents through MEA-authorized outsourced agencies in major cities like:

  • Delhi

  • Mumbai

  • Pune

  • Bangalore

  • Chennai

  • Hyderabad

  • Ahmedabad

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