HRD Attestation vs Home Department Attestation: The Difference

Both happen at state level, both come before MEA, and both are often just called “state attestation”. But they’re done by different departments for different documents. Here’s how to tell which one you need.

The difference at a glance

HRD attestation

The state’s Human Resource Development or Education Department checks with your university or board that the certificate is genuine, then attests it. For many universities and boards, MEA can verify educational documents online through its e-Sanad system instead. Read more on our HRD attestation page.

Home Department attestation

Personal documents are attested by the state Home Department or, in Delhi, commonly by the SDM. See SDM attestation in Delhi.

What about commercial documents?

Neither — company documents usually go through a Chamber of Commerce.

Which state?

Always the state that issued the document. A degree from a Rajasthan university is attested in Rajasthan, even if you live in Delhi. We arrange it either way.

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 the difference between HRD and Home Department attestation?

HRD is for educational documents; Home Department or SDM is for personal documents like birth and marriage certificates.

Is HRD attestation needed for a degree going abroad?

Usually yes — or MEA e-Sanad verification where the university supports it.

Which state attests my document?

The state that issued it.