Plain photocopies cannot be apostilled.
Original documents or certified true copies can be apostilled, subject to MEA apostille rules.
Official MEA Statement
“The Ministry does not legalize photocopies.” — Ministry of External Affairs, India
A certified true copy is a photocopy authenticated by a licensed notary public, confirming it matches the original. This step falls under notary attestation in India and converts a photocopy into a legally acceptable document for apostille.
Original document is verified
Notary stamps and signs
Statement added: “Certified true copy of the original”
Timeline: Same day
To submit a document for apostille, the MEA requires:
Original document or certified true copy
Passport copy (mandatory)
Submission via MEA-authorized outsourced agencies
Optional: e-SANAD for eligible documents
Applicants typically use professional apostille services in India to ensure correct sequencing and faster processing.
Standard: 1–3 working days
e-SANAD (eligible): 2–4 working days
With prior state verification: up to 30 days
Hague Convention countries require MEA Apostille only
Non-Hague countries require HRD/SDM → MEA → Embassy and sometimes MOFA attestation
For destination-specific requirements, refer to country-wise attestation services.
Submitting plain photocopies
Laminated or damaged documents
Missing passport copy
Unverified educational documents
Using unauthorized agents
Always submit through MEA-authorized channels or a trusted document attestation service provider.
Plain photocopies are never accepted
Certified true copies are acceptable
Originals are always preferred
Follow the correct verification sequence
Use MEA-authorized channels only
This page is a quick overview.
For complete clarity, consult PEC Attestation experts to understand:
Document-wise eligibility
Country-specific apostille rules
e-SANAD step-by-step process
HRD vs SDM comparison
PEC Attestation provides complete apostille support, including:
Document verification and notarization guidance
MEA apostille processing
Embassy and MOFA attestation (if required)
Ensuring faster turnaround and zero rejection risk.