Ultimate Guide on What Is Attested Copy
Introduction
If you've ever applied for a visa, job, or government service, you've likely come across the term “attested copy.” But what exactly does it mean? In this guide, we’ll explain what an attested copy is, why it’s needed, how to get documents attested, and the role of professional attestation services.
What Is an Attested Copy?
An attested copy is a photocopy of a document that has been verified and signed by an authorized person, confirming that it’s a true and accurate replica of the original. It’s commonly required in formal procedures where submitting the original document isn’t feasible.
The attestation is usually done by:
A gazetted officer (for government use)
A notary public
An embassy official (for international use)
An authorized professional (such as a chartered accountant or lawyer)
The purpose of attestation is to verify the authenticity of a document without needing to present the original every time.
Why Is Attestation Important?
Attestation acts as a safeguard against document fraud and helps authorities ensure that the documents submitted are genuine. You’ll likely need an attested copy for the following:
Applying for visas or immigration
Overseas education admissions
Government job applications
Banking and loan processes
Legal and court matters
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) India, over 2 million documents were attested for international use in 2023 alone, indicating how critical attestation is in global processes.
Types of Attestation
Here are the most common forms of attestation used today:
Notary Attestation
Typically used for local use, a notary signs and stamps the photocopy to confirm its authenticity.
Embassy Attestation
Required when presenting documents abroad, especially for visa, work, or study purposes. This involves attestation by both the MEA and the respective embassy.
HRD Attestation
Used primarily for educational documents like degrees or diplomas for overseas study or employment. The Human Resource Department verifies the document’s authenticity.
How to Get an Attested Copy
To get a document attested, follow these steps:
Make a clear photocopy of the original document.
Visit an authorized officer or notary public.
Present the original document for verification.
Have the official sign and stamp the copy, marking it as “Attested.”
If you're abroad or dealing with international documents, you can also hire professional attestation services to handle embassy, consular, and MEA attestations.
When to Use Attestation Services
Attestation services are ideal for:
Complex embassy or consular attestations
Legalized translations and notarization
Apostille certification (especially for countries part of the Hague Convention)
Fast-tracking urgent applications
These agencies act as intermediaries and help ensure you don’t miss any steps.
FAQs – What Is Attested Copy?
Q1: Who can attest a document in India?
A gazetted officer, notary public, magistrate, or other government-authorized official can attest documents.
Q2: Are scanned attested copies valid?
For some digital applications, scanned attested copies are accepted. However, physical copies are often required for visa and legal work.
Q3: How much do attestation services cost?
Prices vary based on the document and country. Local notarization might cost ₹50–₹200, while embassy attestation can range from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 or more.
Q4: What is the difference between attestation and notarization?
Notarization is a type of attestation done by a notary. However, attestation can also include higher-level authentication like HRD, MEA, or embassy approval.
Conclusion
Understanding what is attested copy can save you a lot of time and trouble during official processes. Whether you’re applying for a visa, university admission, or a government job, having correctly attested documents ensures your paperwork is legally accepted and trustworthy.
When in doubt, turn to certified attestation services to help navigate complex or international requirements. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your application’s success.
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