FAQs for Document Authentication
What is the difference between Apostille and Attestation?
Apostille and attestation aren’t very different aspects, yet, an apostille is required for a set of countries that are a part of the Hague Convention while attestation is done for the rest of the countries. As a proof of apostille, a sticker along with stamp is usually applied on the document; and after the attestation of documents, they are stamped by the central government and are applicable for embassy attestation as well.
How do I apply for Apostille?
The MEA is the authority issue apostille and decentralized its process into 16 cities. But MEA doesn’t accept the application from individuals. The process is lengthy and cannot be approached directly to the government. In order to apply for apostille of documents, you can reach out to professional services to ensure the proper delivery of the task. MOSTLYNRI has been a service provider for a time span of about 4+ years and has rendered authentic facilities for the authentication of all kinds of documents. You just need to request an application online and wait for the call from the executive.
Who can issue an Apostille?
Apostille can be issued in the countries which are members of the Hague Convention of 1961. In many countries, It is generally issued by the secretariat of the state. In countries like India, MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) referred as MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs in some countries) is the syndicate of the central government that is authorized to issue an apostille for the document. Although, there are other levels of verifications and certifications that need to be taken care of before eventually acquiring sticker from the MEA. These include the notary and state authentication.
Who can Apostille a document in India?
In India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is responsible for apostille of documents, which is also the department of the central government. In 2019, It is decentralized to branch secretariats and the RPOs in 15 cities Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Chennai, Chandigarh, Cochin, New Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Panaji, Raipur, and Thiruvananthapuram. However, before obtaining the same, there is a need for verification from the state government.
Can a notary Apostille a document?
No, a notary cannot perform the apostille of documents, only the central government, viz., MEA provides the apostille sticker on the document. However, the verification of the document from the notary is mandatory to obtain certification from the state and apostille from the MEA in the case of legalization of personal and educational documents. It is not necessary in case of commercial documents, though attestation from chambers of commerce is necessary for commercial documents.