What Is an Apostille?
An Apostille is an official sticker issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, confirming that a public document (like a Birth Certificate) is genuine and valid for use in all Hague Convention member countries.
It removes the need for embassy attestation and makes the document directly acceptable abroad.
In simple words:
An Apostille = Legal approval of your document for international use.
Under the Hague Convention of 5 October 1961, all member countries agreed to replace the lengthy chain attestation process with a single authentication called Apostille.
In India, the MEA is the sole authority that issues Apostilles.
What the Apostille Looks Like?
- Square-shaped sticker, 9 cm × 9 cm
- Issued on the backside of your Birth Certificate
- Has a unique ID, MEA seal, QR code, and digital signature
Why Birth Certificate Apostille Is Required?
Apostille is required when an Indian Birth Certificate is presented to a foreign authority that needs proof of its authenticity.
Here’s when and why it’s typically needed:
| Purpose | Why Apostille Is Needed | Common Destination Countries |
|---|---|---|
| Family / Dependent Visa | To prove parentage or child’s birth for visa sponsorship | Canada, UK, Australia |
| Marriage Registration Abroad | To verify identity and birth details | Italy, France, Spain |
| Education or School Admission | For minors studying abroad | Germany, Netherlands, USA |
| Immigration / Citizenship | Proof of place and date of birth | Australia, Portugal, Poland |
| Legal / Inheritance Claims | Used in courts and estate matters abroad | USA, Canada, UK |
Once Apostilled, your Birth Certificate becomes legally recognised in 100+ countries that are part of the Hague Convention.
Here is the list of all Hague Member Countries.
When Apostille Alone Is Not Enough?
If your destination country is not part of the Hague Convention (e.g. UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, or China),then you’ll need Embassy Attestation instead of Apostille.
Go through this Blog to know the complete details.
Who Can Apply for Birth Certificate Apostille?
- Any Indian citizen needing to submit their Birth Certificate abroad
- Parents applying for a child’s visa or school admission
- NRIs who have Indian Birth Certificates but live abroad
- Couples applying for marriage or family registration outside India
If your document is issued by a Registrar of Births & Deaths, you can directly proceed for Apostille.
If you don’t have one or only have a hospital record, you’ll first need a Non-Availability Certificate (NAC) from your local Municipal or Panchayat office.
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