Guide
Apostille of Indian documents for use in the USA
How NRIs in the USA get Indian degree, birth, marriage and other documents apostilled: steps, timelines, cost and when you need it.
Updated 30 October 2026
Indian documents used in the USA are authenticated with an apostille from India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), after state or university verification. Many US uses do not need one at all, so first ask the employer, licensing board, school or court whether they want an apostille.
When you need it in the USA
An apostille is commonly asked for by state licensing boards, some employers, US courts and schools, and for marriage or adoption matters. USCIS usually asks for certified copies and translations rather than an apostille, so check the exact requirement before you start.
Step by step
- Confirm in writing which document the body in the USA wants, and whether it wants an apostille, a translation or both.
- Send clear scans first, so names and document types can be checked.
- Send the originals to India, or authorise someone there to collect them from your university or the issuing office.
- State or university verification, then the MEA apostille.
- Courier the apostilled documents to you in the USA.
Time and cost
Usually 2 to 4 weeks door to door, longer if the university must verify first. Official fees are paid at actuals; SafeNRI's fee starts at ₹1,999 per document. See how long MEA apostille takes.
If you need help
SafeNRI checks which route your destination needs, handles state verification, the MEA step and courier, and shares receipts for every official fee. See Apostille and attestation and Education document attestation and apostille. SafeNRI is an independent private service, not affiliated with any government department, university or board. You can also apply yourself; our fee is for assisting and representing you, and official fees are charged at actuals with receipts.