Destination: China
Apostille for China
China joined the Apostille Convention with effect from 7 November 2023. Indian public documents for mainland China now generally need an MEA apostille instead of Chinese Embassy legalisation.
China at a glance
- Hague member
- Yes
- Route
- Apostille
- Stages
- 3 stages
Process
Apostille process for China
- 1
State authentication
The issuing state's Home/GAD department, Education department or a Chamber of Commerce authenticates the document.
- 2
MEA apostille
The Ministry of External Affairs affixes the apostille. No embassy stamp is needed.
- 3
Translation (if required)
A certified Chinese translation is usually required by the receiving authority.
Good to know
- Company documents for setting up or registering business in China are a frequent use.
- Before November 2023, Chinese Embassy legalisation was required. Some older checklists still mention it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Chinese Embassy attestation still needed?
For public documents covered by the Convention, the apostille replaces embassy legalisation since 7 November 2023.
Nearby destinations
Other countries in the region
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