Apostille services for Germany
Apostille for Germany is a common requirement when someone is traveling from India to Germany for higher education, employment, or any other purpose. Since both Germany and India are members of The Hague Convention, the German government accepts your documents as trustworthy only when they are apostilled by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in your home country.
Once apostille or legalization is completed for Germany, there is no need for additional embassy attestation.
When Is Apostille Required for Germany?
When you apply for a German visa or need to submit foreign documents in Germany, some certificates must be verified to prove they are genuine. Depending on the purpose, German authorities may ask for your personal, educational, or civil documents to be apostilled. The table below shows the common situations where apostille or legalization is required for Germany.
| Visa / Situation | Documents Usually Requiring Apostille / Legalization |
| Long-stay / National visas (e.g., work, family reunion, study) | Birth certificate, marriage certificate, degree/diploma, police clearance certificate (PCC), proof of family status, etc. |
| Marriage in Germany or registering marriage with German authorities | Marriage certificate, certificate of no impediment, single status certificate, etc. |
| Family reunification (joining spouse or children in Germany) | Civil status certificates (birth, marriage, adoption papers, etc.). |
| Recognition or evaluation of foreign educational documents | Degree certificates, diplomas, transcripts, mark sheets, etc. |
Apostille Process for Germany: Step-by-Step Guide
Any document issued from any state in India must follow a certain procedure to get an apostille. Without following this process, have an apostille is not possible. Here is the procedure:
- Notary Attestation – The document must first be notarized by a registered Indian notary. (All Indian notaries are acceptable.)
- University Verification – For educational documents (degrees, diplomas, transcripts), verification from the issuing university is required.
- SDM Attestation – Personal documents need attestation from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM).
- Apostille / Legalization by MEA – Finally, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India issues the apostille, which makes the document valid for use in Germany.
Translation Requirements for Germany: Visa, Education, and Work
When you apply for a German visa, certain documents must be translated into German or English so that the authorities can easily understand them. However, this does not mean you can use online tools, ChatGPT, or a local translator. The translation must be done and certified by a sworn translator recognized by the German Embassy. It is also important that the translation is completely accurate, especially personal details like full names and surnames.
How Long Does Apostille for Germany Take?
If you follow the complete procedure accurately, from notary attestation to SDM and MEA apostille, the process can be completed in just 2 working days. However, if the entire procedure is handled by us on your behalf—including pick-up and drop-off of documents from your address—it may take around 7 working days.
How to Start the Apostille Process for Germany: Whom to Approach
To start the apostille process for Germany, first obtain the checklist and requirements for the documents from the German Embassy or your university. Prepare all documents along with a copy of your passport. ND Universal is a private company legally authorized to handle apostille services for Indian documents. You can approach us via email at [email protected] or contact us by call/WhatsApp at 8000399331. Wishing you a wonderful day and the very best of luck for your future!