How to Get Apostille Certificate in Pakistan – Procedure & Fee Structure

Are you planning to use your Pakistani documents abroad for immigration, study, work, or business purposes? Then you will need an Apostille Certificate or Attestation to make your documents legally valid internationally. In Pakistan, this process is handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

This guide explains the complete procedure, requirements, and fee structure for getting an Apostille Certificate in Pakistan.

✅ What is an Apostille Certificate?

An Apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document, such as:

• Birth Certificates

• Marriage Certificates

• Educational Degrees & Diplomas

• Court Orders & Affidavits

• Power of Attorney

• Company Documents

It ensures your documents are accepted in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention 1961.

📍 Where to Get Apostille in Pakistan?

In Pakistan, Apostille certification is issued by:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Islamabad and its regional offices in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, and Peshawar.

📝 Step-by-Step Procedure to Get Apostille in Pakistan

Step 1: Document Verification

• First, get your documents verified from the relevant authority:

  • Degrees → Higher Education Commission (HEC)

  • Matric/Intermediate Certificates → IBCC (Inter Board Committee of Chairmen)

  • Birth/Marriage Certificates → NADRA or Union Council

  • Business/Company Documents → SECP, Chamber of Commerce

Step 2: Visit MOFA Office

• Visit the nearest MOFA Camp Office (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, or Peshawar).

• Carry original documents along with photocopies.

Step 3: Submission & Fee Payment

• Submit documents at the MOFA counter.

• Pay the Apostille attestation fee (details below).

Step 4: Collection

• After verification, you will receive your Apostille Certificate on the same day or within a few working days.

💰 Apostille Certificate Fee Structure in Pakistan

As per MOFA rules, the attestation fees are:

• PKR 100 per document (for ordinary documents).

• PKR 2000 – 3000 per document (for commercial/business documents).

⚠️ Note: Fees may change depending on the type of document and urgency. Always check the official MOFA website before applying.

⏳ Processing Time

• Usually same-day attestation if documents are complete and verified.

• For commercial documents, it may take 2–3 working days.

📌 Important Tips for Smooth Process

• Always verify your documents first (HEC, IBCC, NADRA).

• Bring original CNIC/Passport for identification.

• Carry extra photocopies of all documents.

• Arrive early at MOFA offices to avoid long queues.

🔎 Conclusion

Getting an Apostille Certificate in Pakistan is a straightforward process if your documents are properly verified. With the right preparation, you can complete the process within a day at MOFA. This certificate ensures your Pakistani documents are legally recognized in other countries.

If you are applying for immigration, higher studies, business setup, or job abroad, getting an Apostille is mandatory.