Who Can Apostille Documents in India? – Complete Guide (2025 Update)
If you’re planning to work, study, marry, or migrate abroad, one key step in the document legalization process is getting your documents apostilled. But who can apostille documents in India? What is the official procedure? And where can you get it done safely and quickly? Apostille Documents in India.
In this article, we’ll answer all your questions about apostille services in India—especially helpful for residents of Delhi and those looking for trusted apostille agents or legal professionals.
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certificate issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, that validates a document for international use under the Hague Convention of 1961. It ensures that the document is recognized by all 100+ member countries of the Hague Convention, without the need for further embassy legalization
Who Can Apostille Documents in India?
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) – Central Authority
The MEA is the only authority in India that issues apostille stickers for valid public documents. The documents must first be authenticated at the state or local level, depending on the type of document. - Authorized Outsourced Service Providers
The MEA has authorized several agencies to collect, process, and deliver apostilled documents.
These agencies accept documents from individuals, get them authenticated from the appropriate departments, and submit them to the MEA for apostille.
Types of Documents Eligible for Apostille
Personal Documents – Birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate, power of attorney, affidavit, etc.
Educational Documents – Degree, diploma, school certificates, transcripts.
Commercial Documents – Export invoices, company MOAs, patent filings, incorporation certificates.
Step-by-Step Process for Apostille in India
Step 1: State Authentication
Documents must first be authenticated by the relevant state authority:
SDM/Notary/Home Department for personal documents.
HRD/School Boards/Universities for educational documents.
Chamber of Commerce for commercial documents.
Step 2: Submission to MEA
After authentication, the documents are submitted to MEA. The MEA affixes a unique apostille sticker with a QR code and stamp.
Step 3: Delivery
Your documents are returned with the apostille, making them legally valid for international use.
Apostille Services in Delhi
If you’re based in Delhi and need apostille services, you can either: Apostille Documents in India.
Visit authorized agents.
Contact a legal professional or law firm specializing in attestation, apostille, and international documentation.
You can also use the government’s online platform e-Sanad for digital apostille services for select documents.
Important Tips Before Apostille
Ensure original documents are in good condition and not laminated.
Always carry passport copies and supporting documents.
Prefer authorized agents to avoid scams or document loss.
For NRI or international clients, ask about courier-based apostille options.
📞 Need Help with an Apostille in India?
At Lawsathi Consulting, we provide end-to-end apostille services in Delhi and across India, including:
Document verification
State authentication
MEA apostille
Translation and notary services
Whether you’re a student, professional, business owner, or NRI, we make international document legalization fast, legal, and hassle-free.
📱 Call us today at +91 7617-414-414 or WhatsApp for instant support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Authorized to apostille documents in India?
➡️ Only the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) can issue apostilles in India. Authorized agents can assist in the submission process.
Q2. Is apostille valid for all countries?
➡️ Apostille is valid only in Hague Convention member countries.
Q3. Can I apostille my documents online?
➡️ Yes, for select educational documents via the e-Sanad portal.
Q4. How long is an apostille valid?
➡️ Generally, there’s no expiry date, but some countries may require recent apostilles (within 6 months).
