Explore country-specific rules for recognising foreign documents for official use.
This map shows when certified or sworn translations, apostilles, or legalisation are required for official use.
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Requirement: Certified
| Apostille required | Required if the document will be used abroad |
|---|---|
| Translation type required | Certified translation |
| Who can translate | Professional translator or qualified individual |
| Official translator registry | No national sworn or licensed translator registry |
| Accepted languages | English or Hindi (depending on authority) |
| Legalisation authority | Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) |
| Official source | Ministry of External Affairs – Apostille & Attestation |
Important: India does not regulate translators at national level. Translation validity depends on the receiving authority’s specific requirements.
Official Apostille Information (MEA)India has no system of court-sworn or licensed translators. Certified translations are typically prepared by professional translators or translation agencies.
A certified translation must include:
Some authorities may require the certification to be executed on stamp paper or company letterhead.
Where required by a court, university, embassy, or foreign authority, the translator may need to swear an affidavit before a Notary Public under the Notaries Act, 1956.
Notaries in India are appointed by the Central or State Governments. Official information and listings of appointed notaries are available via: Government of India – Notary Portal .
Notarisation confirms the identity of the declarant, not the accuracy of the translation itself.
Documents intended for use outside India must obtain an apostille from the Ministry of External Affairs under the Hague Apostille Convention.
Translation practices in India are governed by evidentiary and administrative procedures. Notaries operate under the Notaries Act, 1956. Apostilles and attestation are administered by the Ministry of External Affairs.
