After completing the applicable pre-authentication, the document can be submitted through the relevant MEA apostille process.

The Ministry of External Affairs is India's designated competent authority for apostille services.

India also has e-Sanad, an online platform designed to facilitate digital attestation and apostille for documents issued by integrated document-issuing authorities.

Step 6: Receive the Apostilled Document

Once the apostille has been issued, the document can be used according to the requirements of the foreign immigration authority.

Keep both the original document and copies of the apostilled document for your records.

Step 7: Translation if Required

Some immigration authorities require documents to be submitted in a particular language.

If a certified translation is required, follow the destination authority's instructions regarding:

• Translator qualification
• Certification
• Translation format
• Whether the translation itself requires authentication

An apostille does not automatically satisfy translation requirements.

How Long Does Immigration Document Apostille Take?

The total processing time depends on:

• Document type
• Pre-authentication requirements
• Verification
• Submission method
• MEA processing
• Translation requirements
• Courier or delivery

The MEA's 2025 Citizen's Charter states that apostille services are usually provided within 7 working days after receipt in MEA, subject to the applicable procedure.

This should not necessarily be interpreted as the total time required from the day you start preparing your documents. Pre-authentication and other steps may take additional time.

If you have an immigration deadline, begin the process well in advance.

How Much Does Apostille Cost in India?

The MEA's 2025 Citizen's Charter lists an MEA fee of ₹50 per apostilled document.

Additional service charges may apply depending on the method of submission. The Charter lists separate charges for online e-Sanad processing and offline outsourced collection/delivery and scanning.