If you are an Indian expat living in Belgium and need to use an official Indian document for legal purposes there, you will likely need an apostille. This article provides a complete overview of the apostille process, including requirements, steps, and helpful resources to make the process easier for you.
Click here for the contacts which can help you with getting document apostilled
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a form of authentication for public documents issued in one country for use in another country. It certifies the authenticity of the signature and seal on the document, making it acceptable for legal use in other member countries of the Hague Convention. India and Belgium are both members of this convention.
Why Do You Need an Apostille?
You may need an apostille for various reasons, including:
- Employment: Submitting educational certificates or work experience documents to secure employment in Belgium.
- Residence: Applying for a visa or residency permit that requires Indian vital records (marriage, birth, etc.).
- Legal proceedings: Utilizing Indian documents in Belgian courts or other legal matters.
- Business Transactions: Conducting business dealings that require official Indian documentation.
The Process of Obtaining an Apostille for Indian Documents in Belgium
The process consists of the following steps:
- State-Level Authentication: Your Indian documents must first be authenticated by the relevant authority in the Indian state where they were issued. This may be the Home Department, Human Resources Development (HRD) Department, or designated regional authorities.
- Apostille by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): Once your documents are authenticated at the state level, they need to be sent to the MEA in New Delhi for apostille affixation. You have two options for this:
- Direct Submission: Submit the documents to the MEA in person or by mail.
- Outsourcing Agencies: Utilize the services of MEA-authorized outsourcing agencies, which will handle the submission and collection process on your behalf.
Important Considerations and Resources
- Processing Time: The process can take several days or even weeks. It’s advisable to start the procedure well in advance of when you need the apostilled documents.
- Fees: Expect to pay fees for both state-level authentication and apostille service by the MEA. Outsourcing agencies also charge additional fees.
- Outsourcing Agencies for Convenience: Consider contacting reputable outsourcing agencies to simplify the process, as they provide a convenient option for handling document submission and collection. Reach out to these contacts
- Official MEA Website: For the most up-to-date information on procedures, fees, and outsourcing agencies, visit The Ministry of External Affairs website: https://mea.gov.in/apostille.htm.
Additional Notes
- If you are unsure about where to authenticate your documents in India, contact the Indian Embassy or Consulate in Belgium for guidance.
- The apostille process is crucial for ensuring the validity and acceptance of your important Indian documents in Belgium.