If you're planning to move abroad for work, higher education, business, or family settlement, you've probably come across the terms apostille and attestation. These two document legalization processes are often misunderstood or used interchangeably, but they serve different purposes depending on the destination country. In this detailed blog by Pro Attestation Services, we’ll explore the key differences between apostille and attestation, when to use each, and how to get your documents legalized the right way in 2025.
What is Apostille?
Apostille is a type of document authentication accepted by countries that are members of the Hague Convention of 1961 India became a member of this convention in 2005, and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is the sole authority for issuing apostille stickers on Indian documents.
Purpose:
- Used for countries that are part of the Hague Convention
- Accepted for education, employment, residence visas, and commercial purposes
Apostille Countries Include: Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, and over 120 others
Apostille is applicable on:
- Birth Certificates
- Marriage Certificates
- Educational Degrees and Diplomas
- Educational Degrees and Diplomas
- Commercial Invoices and Company Documents
Format:
Apostille is a square-shaped sticker with a unique identification number, attached by the MEA on the back of the document.
What is Attestation?
Attestation is a broader, multi-level process of verifying the authenticity of documents for use in countries not part of the Hague Convention—like the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, and others
It typically involves:
- Notary Attestation – Local verification by a certified notary
- State Attestation – HRD (for education) or Home Department/SDM (for personal documents)
- MEA Attestation – Central-level verification by the Ministry of External Affairs
- Embassy Attestation – Legalization by the destination country’s embassy (e.g., UAE Embassy in Delhi)
- MOFA Attestation – Final step in the destination country (e.g., Ministry of Foreign Affairs in UAE)
Attestation is required for:
- Employment and labor visas
- Family and residence visas
- Business expansion abroad
- Visa for non-Hague countries
Documents commonly attested:
- Degree Certificates
- Birth/Marriage Certificates
- Experience Letters
- Company Documents
Apostille vs Attestation: Key Differences
| Feature | Apostille | Attestation |
|---|---|---|
| Applicable Countries | Hague Convention members | Non-Hague countries (UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia) |
| Authorized by | MEA (India) | Notary → State → MEA → Embassy → MOFA |
| Final Step | Apostille sticker from MEA | Embassy + MOFA attestation |
| Validity | Generally valid for 6 months to 1 year | Depends on the country's rules |
| Time Required | 2–3 working days (typical) | 4–10 working days (depending on document type) |
Which One Do You Need in 2025?
You need to determine the legalization type based on the destination country:
- If the country is a Hague Convention member, go for apostille.
- If the country is not a Hague member, opt for attestation, which includes embassy and MOFA legalization.
For example:
- Going to Germany for higher studies? → Apostille
- Got a job offer in the UAE? → Attestation + Embassy + MOFA
Pro Attestation Services is a trusted name in document legalization, offering expert support for both apostille and embassy attestation from India.
Our Services Include:
- MEA Attestation
- Embassy Attestation in Delhi
- Apostille Services in Delhi
- Home/HRD Department Attestation
Why clients prefer Pro Attestation Services:
- 100% accuracy and transparency
- Timely delivery within committed timelines
- Affordable pricing and urgent processing available
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does apostille take in India?
Generally 2–3 working days.
Is apostille enough for UAE?
No. UAE is not a Hague Convention country. You need full attestation including UAE Embassy and MOFA.
Do apostille documents expire?
Yes. Most countries accept apostille within 6–12 months, but check with your specific institution.
Final Thoughts
Both apostille and attestation serve the purpose of legalizing documents for use abroad. Choosing the correct one depends on your destination country and the purpose of your travel. Incorrect documentation can lead to delays in visa approval or rejection. To avoid confusion and ensure 100% compliance, trust Pro Attestation Services—your reliable partner for hassle-free apostille and attestation services across India.
Need help? Contact Pro Attestation Services today.
- Call: +91-8700770603
- Email: info@proattestation.com