When a spouse or child applies as a dependent, authorities may request documents proving the family relationship.

For example:

• Marriage certificate for a spouse
• Birth certificate for a child
• Adoption documents where applicable

If authentication is required, apostille may be appropriate for eligible documents intended for a Hague Convention country.

Does Apostille Guarantee Visa Approval?

No.

This is one of the most important points applicants should understand.

An apostille confirms the origin of an eligible public document. Under the Hague Convention, it authenticates the signature, capacity of the signer, and applicable seal or stamp.

It does not guarantee:

• Visa approval
• Permanent residency
• Citizenship
• Employment
• Family reunification
• Admission to a university
• Professional licensing

The immigration authority evaluates the entire application independently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Apostilling the Wrong Documents

Do not process every document automatically. Check which documents the immigration authority actually requires.

2. Using Apostille for a Non-Hague Country

A destination country may require traditional attestation or legalization instead.

3. Ignoring Pre-Authentication

Certain documents must be authenticated by the appropriate State/UT authority before MEA processing.

4. Name Mismatch

Make sure your name is consistent across your:

• Passport
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate
• Educational certificates
• Other immigration documents

5. Ignoring Translation Requirements