How to Attest Documents from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)

Attesting documents is an essential process for those who need their documents validated for official purposes, both within Pakistan and internationally. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and its Camp Offices in Provincial Capitals offer efficient and friendly consular services to the public, ensuring that the process is smooth and hassle-free.

State-of-the-Art Consular Services Hall

To further enhance service delivery, MOFA has established a state-of-the-art, fully air-conditioned Consular Services Hall, operational since October 2013. This facility includes:

• Seating capacity for 200 persons to accommodate visitors comfortably.
• Four LCDs with cable networking for information and entertainment.
• Photocopying facility available on-site.
• Dedicated counters for document submission and collection:
• Five counters for general documents.
• One counter specifically for document delivery.
• Two counters for handling Power of Attorney services.

MOFA ensures that all documents, except Power of Attorney and Affidavits, are processed or attested within two hours, either directly or through authorized courier companies such as Gerry’s, Leopards, and TCS.

Instructions for Attestation of Documents

Attestation services are provided without any fees, but applicants must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Revenue stamps: Ensure the prescribed value revenue stamps are affixed to the documents.
• Original ID and document photocopies: Bring your original identity card and a photocopy of the document for the Ministry’s records.
• Authorized representatives: If you cannot visit in person, a blood relative may submit documents on your behalf, provided they can prove their relationship. Non-relatives require an authority letter, attested by Pakistan’s Embassy in the applicant’s country of residence.
• Verification: Dubious or incomplete documents may be sent back to the issuing authority for re-verification.

Application Forms Available

• Affidavit of Financial Support
• Unmarried and Permission for Marriage
• NOC from Family Member
• Special Power of Attorney
• General Power of Attorney

Apostille Certification and Legalization Process

Starting from 08 July 2024, MOFA and its liaison offices in Lahore and Karachi have launched the Apostille legalization process. Walk-in applicants can now obtain Apostille Certification without the need for appointments. The Ministry has partnered with five courier companies to provide door-to-door Apostille services:

• Gerry’s International Pvt. Ltd.
• Leopards Courier Service Pvt. Ltd.
• Excellent Courier Services (ECS)
• M&P Express Logistics Pvt. Ltd.
• TCS Pvt. Ltd.

The revised fee structure for Apostille Certification is:

1. Personal and Educational Documents: Rs. 3,000/- per document
2. Legal Documents: Rs. 4,500/- per document
3. Commercial Documents: Rs. 12,000/- per document

Conclusion

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to provide accessible and efficient document attestation services. With a range of facilities and streamlined processes, MOFA ensures that attesting documents, whether for personal, legal, or commercial purposes, is straightforward and stress-free.