Planning to study, work, or conduct business abroad? One critical step is MOFA attestation. MOFA, or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pakistan, verifies documents that have already been attested by the concerned authorities, such as HEC or IBCC. This final attestation makes your documents valid for international use.
This guide covers everything you need to know about MOFA attestation, including the process, requirements, fees, and tips for hassle-free completion.
What is MOFA Attestation?
MOFA attestation is the official verification by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan, confirming that your academic, professional, or commercial documents are genuine. It is the last step before your documents can be used abroad.
Think of it as the “seal of international recognition” for your documents.
Why is MOFA Attestation Important?
For Study Abroad
Universities abroad require MOFA attested documents to verify authenticity before admission.
For Employment Abroad
Employers often demand MOFA attested degrees, diplomas, or professional certificates to confirm your qualifications.
For Visa and Immigration Purposes
Embassies and immigration authorities require MOFA attestation for visa applications, permanent residency, or work permits.
Who Needs MOFA Attestation?
- Students – For admission to foreign universities or scholarship programs.
- Professionals – Doctors, engineers, nurses, and teachers moving abroad for work.
- Businesses – Companies requiring attested commercial documents for international transactions.
Types of Documents Attested by MOFA
- Academic Certificates – Matric, Intermediate, Bachelor, Master, Ph.D.
- Professional Certificates – Diplomas, training certificates, degrees, licenses
- Commercial Documents – Memorandum of Association, Power of Attorney, contracts
MOFA Attestation Requirements
Prepare these documents before submitting for attestation:
- Original documents (HEC/IBCC attested if academic)
- Copy of CNIC or Passport
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Authorization letter if someone is submitting on your behalf
- Photocopies of all original documents
Step-by-Step MOFA Attestation Process
- Verify Documents – Ensure prior attestation from HEC, IBCC, or concerned authority.
- Submission at MOFA – Visit MOFA regional office with originals and copies.
- Payment of Fees – Pay applicable charges at the counter.
- Document Verification – MOFA officers check stamps, signatures, and authenticity.
- Collection – Pick up attested documents on the scheduled date.
MOFA Regional Offices and Locations
- Islamabad (Head Office) – Jinnah Avenue
- Lahore Regional Office – Mall Road
- Karachi Regional Office – I.I. Chundrigar Road
- Peshawar Regional Office – Saddar
- Quetta Regional Office – Jinnah Road
MOFA Attestation Fee Structure
- Academic Documents: PKR 500–1,000 per document
- Commercial Documents: PKR 1,000–2,000 per document
- Urgent Processing: Extra charges may apply
Fees vary depending on document type and office location.
Online Appointment for MOFA Attestation
- Register on MOFA online portal.
- Fill out required details and select document type.
- Book an appointment to avoid long queues.
MOFA Courier Attestation Service
- Submit documents via TCS or other authorized courier services.
- Documents are sent to MOFA office for verification and returned after attestation.
- Processing Time: Usually 7–10 working days.
Common Issues in MOFA Attestation & Solutions
- Incomplete Prior Attestation – Ensure all documents are HEC or IBCC attested.
- Missing Signatures/Stamps – Verify every document has correct official stamps.
- Incorrect Personal Information – Double-check names, dates, and document numbers.
Difference Between HEC, IBCC, and MOFA Attestation
| Authority | Documents Attested | Purpose |
| HEC | University degrees | International recognition of higher education |
| IBCC | Matric, Intermediate, Diplomas | Verification of school-level and technical education |
| MOFA | All documents | Legal validation for international use |
Tips for Smooth MOFA Attestation Process
- Keep extra copies of all documents.
- Complete prior attestation before visiting MOFA.
- Book appointments online to save time.
- Use courier service if you live abroad.
How Long Does MOFA Attestation Take?
- In-person: Usually 1–2 working days for completed documents
- Courier Service: Around 7–10 working days
Conclusion
MOFA attestation is the final step in making your documents valid internationally. Whether it’s academic, professional, or commercial documents, MOFA attestation ensures recognition worldwide. Proper preparation, prior attestation, and following the correct procedure make the process quick and hassle-free.