This changed in March 2023, when Pakistan became a party to the Hague Apostille Convention. Before that, every document going either way needed the full legalisation chain. Now an apostille works between Pakistan and the other member states, which includes the United States.
Quick facts
A great deal of published guidance still describes the old chain, because it was the rule for decades. If a website tells you a U.S. degree certificate needs consular attestation for use in Pakistan, check the date on it.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Issued by |
|---|---|---|
| Apostille on a U.S. state document | $3–$25 per document | Secretary of State of that state |
| Apostille on a U.S. federal document | $20 per document | U.S. Department of State |
| Apostille on a Pakistani document | Charged in Pakistan | Ministry of Foreign Affairs |
| Consular attestation | Mission tariff | Where the receiving body still asks for it |
| Foreign ministry attestation in Pakistan | Charged there | Preceded by the issuing authority |
Educational documents from Pakistan usually need attestation by the education authority before the foreign ministry sees them, and that internal sequence has not changed.
How to prepare a document
- Ask the receiving institution whether it wants an apostille or still insists on attestation.
- Order a certified copy, or notarise the private document.
- File for the apostille with the Secretary of State of the issuing state.
- Where attestation is required instead, book the mission appointment for that service.
- Keep the chain intact and order a second set.
Required documents
- Original certified copy with signature and seal.
- Completed authentication request and payment.
- Photo identification for consular services.
- Prepaid return envelope for mail filings.
What the missions do
They issue passports and emergency travel documents, attest documents, draw up powers of attorney and affidavits, issue origin cards and dual nationality certificates, process renunciations of citizenship and assist nationals in difficulty.
The Consulate General of Pakistan, Chicago
View details →HoustonPakistan Consulate General Houston
View details →Los AngelesConsulate General of Pakistan
View details →MaricopaPAK LINK - Pakistan Consulate Facilitation Services for US Citizens
View details →MillisConsulate General of The Islamic Republic of Pakistan
View details →New YorkConsulate General of Pakistan New York
View details →WashingtonEmbassy of Pakistan
View details →Additional notes
Old guidance persists
The change is recent enough that agencies still sell the old chain. Confirming the requirement first is the cheapest step in the whole process.
Educational verification
Degrees are often verified by the awarding institution as well as attested, and employers ask for both. They are different exercises.
Order two copies
Pakistani offices keep what they receive, and repeating the chain from abroad is slow.
Never apostille a photocopy
The certificate attaches to an original or a certified copy from the record keeper.