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Attestation Guide: HEC and MOFA

Step-by-Step Process for Pakistani Students

Introduction

Document attestation is a mandatory requirement for studying abroad, seeking employment overseas, or applying for scholarships. The process verifies that your educational documents are genuine. This guide walks you through the attestation process from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Pakistan.

Understanding the Process

Attestation involves official verification of your documents at multiple levels. For educational documents, the typical sequence is: University verification, HEC attestation, and then MOFA attestation. Some countries also require attestation from their embassy in Pakistan.

Documents That Require Attestation

  • Degree certificates (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD)
  • Transcripts and detailed mark sheets
  • Equivalence certificates (for foreign degrees)
  • Professional certifications
  • Some countries may require Matriculation and Intermediate certificates

Step 1: University Verification

Before approaching HEC, ensure your degree is verified by your university's Controller of Examinations office. Most universities issue degrees that are already verified, but some foreign universities or employers require explicit verification letters.

Step 2: HEC Attestation

Documents Required

  • Original degree certificate
  • Original transcript/detailed marks certificate
  • Copy of CNIC (front and back)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Previous degrees (if applicable) for verification chain

Process Options

Online Application (Recommended):

  • Visit the HEC e-Services portal (eservices.hec.gov.pk)
  • Create an account or log in
  • Select 'Document Attestation' service
  • Fill in the required details and upload scanned documents
  • Pay the fee online (approximately PKR 2,500-3,500 per document)
  • Choose delivery option (collect in person or courier)
  • Track your application status online

In-Person Application:

  • Visit the HEC Regional Centre in your city
  • Bring original documents and copies
  • Fill out the application form
  • Pay the fee at the designated bank counter
  • Submit documents and receive a tracking number

Processing Time

Standard processing takes 7-15 working days. Urgent processing (3-5 days) is available for an additional fee.

Tip: Visit HEC offices early in the morning to avoid long queues. Tuesday to Thursday generally have shorter waiting times.

Step 3: MOFA Attestation

After HEC attestation, documents must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Documents Required

  • HEC-attested original documents
  • Copy of CNIC
  • Application form (available at MOFA offices)

Process

  • Visit the MOFA office in Islamabad or regional facilitation centres
  • Submit your HEC-attested documents
  • Pay the attestation fee (approximately PKR 1,000-2,000 per document)
  • Collect attested documents (usually same-day or next-day)

MOFA Regional Centres

MOFA has facilitation centres in several cities including Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta. Check the MOFA website for current locations and operating hours.

Step 4: Embassy Attestation (If Required)

Some countries require additional attestation from their embassy or consulate in Pakistan. This is particularly common for Gulf countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar). Contact the relevant embassy to confirm requirements and fees.

Common Issues and Solutions

Name Discrepancies

If your name appears differently on various documents, you may need an affidavit from a Notary Public confirming that both names refer to the same person.

Missing Documents

If you have lost your original degree, apply for a duplicate from your university before approaching HEC.

Private University Degrees

Degrees from HEC-recognized private universities follow the same process. Degrees from unrecognized institutions cannot be attested.

Important: Start the attestation process at least 4-6 weeks before your visa application or scholarship deadline. Unexpected delays are common.

Estimated Costs

  • HEC Attestation: PKR 2,500-3,500 per document (standard)
  • HEC Urgent Processing: Additional PKR 3,000-5,000
  • MOFA Attestation: PKR 1,000-2,000 per document
  • Embassy Attestation: Varies by country (PKR 3,000-15,000)

Useful Contacts

  • HEC Helpline: 051-111-119-432
  • HEC Website: www.hec.gov.pk
  • MOFA Website: www.mofa.gov.pk

Keep photocopies and scanned versions of all attested documents. Original attested documents are difficult and time-consuming to replace.