SDM Attestation in Delhi: Complete Process, Documents & Fees (2026)

If your birth or marriage certificate was issued in Delhi and you need it for a visa or a job abroad, SDM attestation is usually the first official step. Here’s the complete process, the documents, the time it takes, and how fees work.

What is SDM attestation?

The Sub-Divisional Magistrate heads a sub-division of a district and is a gazetted executive magistrate. SDM attestation confirms at state level that a document and its signature are genuine. The Ministry of External Affairs relies on this before it attests or apostilles the document. Short version: what is SDM attestation.

Which documents need SDM attestation?

• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate
• Death certificate
• Single status or other affidavits
• Other personal documents issued in Delhi

Educational certificates follow the HRD route instead, and commercial documents go to the Chamber of Commerce.

Where SDM attestation fits

Documents required

• Original document
• Clear photocopy
• Passport copy of the person named on the document
• ID proof (Aadhaar) of the applicant
• Authority letter, if someone submits on your behalf
• Notarised copy, where required for that document type

Step-by-step process

1. Check the document — names and dates should match the passport. Fix mismatches with an affidavit first.
2. Notarise if needed — some documents need a notarised copy before the SDM.
3. Submit at the SDM office — with the original, copies and ID.
4. Collect — usually 3–7 working days later.
5. MEA — then MEA attestation or apostille, and embassy attestation if the country needs it.

SDM attestation fees in Delhi

The government step itself involves only small official charges, but the total cost depends on how many documents you have, whether notarisation is needed, and whether you use a service to handle submission and collection. We quote the full cost upfront before starting.

Common problems

• Name spelled differently on the certificate and the passport
• Old handwritten certificates that need a fresh computerised copy
• Documents issued in another state — those go to that state’s authority

Not sure whether you need SDM, a notary or a magistrate? Read notary vs SDM vs first class magistrate, or see our SDM attestation service.

Not sure which attestation your form needs? Send a photo of it on WhatsApp or call +91 93109 70010 — we tell you the exact process before you spend any money.

Frequently asked questions

What is SDM attestation?

Attestation by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate confirming a document at state level before MEA attestation or apostille.

How long does SDM attestation take in Delhi?

Usually 3–7 working days.

Which documents need SDM attestation?

Personal documents issued in Delhi — birth, marriage and death certificates, affidavits and similar papers going abroad.

What are the SDM attestation fees?

Official charges are small; the total depends on the number of documents, notarisation and handling. We quote upfront.

Can I get SDM attestation for a document from another state?

No — each state attests its own documents, but we can arrange it through that state.