What is Document Attestation in India and Why is it Important

Document attestation in India is the process of verifying the authenticity of documents for use in foreign countries. It is required for various purposes, including employment, higher education, business, and residency abroad.
The attestation process involves multiple levels of verification, including:
Notary Attestation – The first step, done by a local notary.
State-Level Attestation – Verification by state authorities such as the HRD, Home, or SDM departments.
MEA Attestation – The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) verifies the document.
Embassy Attestation – The concerned country's embassy or consulate attests the document.
This process ensures the document is legally valid and recognized internationally. Common documents requiring attestation include educational certificates, birth and marriage certificates, and commercial documents. Proper attestation helps avoid legal issues and ensures smooth processing for international applications.