Common Mistakes to Avoid When Verifying Documents Through MOFA
How to Verify Documents from Foreign Office in Pakistan – A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting your documents verified from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), commonly referred to as the Apostille in Pakistan, is an essential step if you plan to use Pakistani documents abroad. Whether you’re applying for a visa, seeking employment in another country, or planning for higher education, most international authorities require that your documents be attested by the Pakistani Foreign Office to ensure authenticity.
This detailed guide will walk you through the complete process, including what types of documents can be attested, how to prepare your documents, and the online appointment system.
Why Foreign Office Verification Is Important
The attestation by the Foreign Office confirms that your documents are genuine and have been issued by a recognized authority in Pakistan. Once MOFA verifies your documents, they are accepted for further attestation by embassies of other countries, universities abroad, or foreign employers. Without this verification, your documents may be considered invalid or untrustworthy internationally.
Step-by-Step Process to Verify Documents from Foreign Office in Pakistan
1. Pre-Attestation Requirements
Before visiting the Foreign Office, ensure your documents have been pre-attested by the relevant issuing authority:
- Educational documents should be verified by IBCC (for Matric/Inter) or HEC (for degrees)
- Marriage or divorce certificates must be issued and attested by Union Council or NADRA
- Birth certificates should be issued and attested by NADRA
- Affidavits or notarized documents must be stamped by a Notary Public and District Court
2. Online Appointment via MOFA Portal
MOFA no longer allows walk-in document verification. You must book an appointment online:
- Visit the official portal: apostille.com
- Register and create a profile
- Fill out the document details and choose the nearest Foreign Office camp (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, etc.)
- Select a date and time slot for your visit
- Print the confirmation slip
3. Document Submission at Foreign Office
On the day of your appointment:
- Bring original documents and photocopies
- Bring your original CNIC or passport
- Carry the appointment slip printed from the website
- Submit your documents to the MOFA official at the assigned counter
- Pay the nominal fee (usually around Rs. 100 per document, subject to change)
4. Collection of Verified Documents
Once submitted, most documents are verified on the same day. In some cases, especially if manual verification is needed, you may be asked to return the next day. You will receive your documents stamped with the MOFA seal and signature, confirming official verification.
Types of Documents That Can Be Verified by Foreign Office
You can verify a wide range of personal, educational, and legal documents. These include:
- Matric, Intermediate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce or Khula decree
- Unmarried certificate in Pakistan
- CNIC or Form-B copies
- Police clearance certificate
- Experience or employment certificates
- Affidavits and legal declarations
- Power of attorney
- Medical certificates for travel or immigration
- Translation documents (if certified by a notary public or relevant authority)
Note: All documents must first be attested by the issuing authority (such as a board, university, or local government) before MOFA will verify them.
Foreign Office Camp Offices in Pakistan
MOFA has regional camp offices in major cities to facilitate attestation:
- Islamabad (Main Office)
- Lahore
- Karachi
- Peshawar
- Quetta
- Multan
- Gilgit
- Muzaffarabad (AJK)
Always choose the one closest to your location when booking your appointment.
Important Tips for Smooth Verification
- Double-check your documents for any errors in names, dates, or spellings
- Do not laminate your documents before attestation
- If someone else is submitting documents on your behalf, they must carry a power of attorney
- Reach the Foreign Office on time to avoid missing your appointment slot
- Keep extra photocopies of all documents with you
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I send my documents by courier for MOFA attestation?
A: No. Physical presence or an authorized representative is required at the Foreign Office.
Q: Is MOFA attestation needed for all types of documents?
A: It depends on the purpose. Most countries require MOFA attestation for legal, educational, or marital documents.
Q: How long is the attestation valid?
A: MOFA attestation does not expire but may need re-verification if the document is altered.
Q: Can I verify documents in urgent cases?
A: The system works on appointments, but in some cities, same-day urgent service may be available. Check the local Foreign Office for this option.
Conclusion
Verifying your documents from the Foreign Office in Pakistan and khula in Pakistan is a necessary process when dealing with international legal, educational, or immigration matters. While the process may seem detailed, it is quite straightforward if you prepare in advance, get pre-attestations, and use the MOFA online system to schedule your appointment.
Always ensure the authenticity of your documents and avoid third-party agents who may charge high fees unnecessarily. Following the correct steps will save you time, money, and legal issues abroad.