Short answer: a first class magistrate affidavit is a sworn statement attested by a magistrate of the first class — in practice usually an executive magistrate such as the SDM or Tehsildar. Offices ask for it when they want more than a notary’s stamp. The law gives an affidavit no fixed expiry date, but most offices only accept one made in the last 3–6 months.
If a university, passport office or government department has told you to submit an affidavit “attested by a 1st class magistrate”, you’re not alone in being confused. Many people go to a notary, only to be sent back. This guide explains what a first class magistrate affidavit is, when it’s needed, how long it stays valid, and how to get one in Delhi without wasted trips.
What does “first class magistrate” mean?
There are two kinds of magistrates in India, both set out in criminal procedure law (now the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, which replaced the CrPC):
- Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) — sits in a court and hears criminal cases.
- Executive Magistrate — an officer of the district administration, such as the District Magistrate, SDM or Tehsildar, who also attests affidavits and issues certificates.
When a form asks for an affidavit “attested by a first class magistrate”, it normally means sworn before a magistrate rather than a notary or oath commissioner. In everyday practice in Delhi, this is done before an executive magistrate. If your form specifically says Judicial Magistrate, follow that wording.
When do you need a first class magistrate affidavit?
- Name change, surname change or a spelling correction
- Date of birth or address declaration
- Gap year or education gap affidavit for admission
- Lost marksheet, certificate, ID or passport — usually with an FIR or lost report copy
- Income, dependency or non-employment declaration
- Undertakings for scholarships, hostels or admissions
- Any notice that says “sworn before a magistrate”
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First class magistrate affidavit validity
Indian law does not put an expiry date on an affidavit — it remains a sworn statement of the facts as they were on the day you made it. In practice, though, most offices want a recent affidavit, commonly made within the last 3 to 6 months, because things like your address or income can change. If your affidavit is older than that, or the facts have changed, simply make a fresh one.
Documents you need
For a lost document, bring the FIR or police lost report. For a name mismatch, bring every document showing both versions of the name.
How to get a first class magistrate affidavit — step by step
- Get the format. Ask the office for its format, or share its instructions with us.
- Drafting. The affidavit is drafted in clear language with your details matching your ID exactly.
- E-stamp paper. It is printed on non-judicial e-stamp paper of the value prescribed in Delhi.
- Sign before the magistrate. You appear in person; the magistrate checks your identity and attests with signature and seal.
- Collect. The attested affidavit is usually ready within 1–2 working days.
First class magistrate vs notary vs oath commissioner
| Authority | Who they are | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Notary public | Lawyer appointed under the Notaries Act, 1952 | General affidavits, agreements, true copies |
| Oath commissioner | Appointed by the High Court or District Judge | Affidavits to be filed in court |
| First class / executive magistrate | Government magistrate | Affidavits where the office asks for a magistrate |
They are not interchangeable — always use the authority your form names. Our guide to notary vs SDM vs first class magistrate goes deeper, and this guide lists the mistakes that get affidavits rejected.
Getting it done in Delhi
At SK Document Centre in New Ashok Nagar we draft the affidavit, arrange the e-stamp paper and help you get it sworn before the magistrate, so you don’t spend days going from counter to counter. If your office would accept a notarised affidavit instead, we’ll tell you — it’s faster and simpler.
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 a 1st class magistrate affidavit?
An affidavit sworn and attested before a magistrate of the first class — usually an executive magistrate such as the SDM — instead of a notary.
What is the validity of a first class magistrate affidavit?
There is no fixed legal expiry, but most offices accept affidavits made within the last 3–6 months.
Who is a first class magistrate?
A Judicial Magistrate First Class in the courts, or — for affidavits — usually an executive magistrate of the district administration such as the SDM or Tehsildar.
Is SDM a first class magistrate?
The SDM is an executive magistrate. Offices that ask for a ‘1st class magistrate’ affidavit usually accept the SDM’s attestation; if your form says Judicial Magistrate, follow that.
How much does a first class magistrate affidavit cost?
It depends on the stamp paper value and drafting. Call +91 93109 70010 for an exact quote.
Do I need to be present?
Yes. You must sign before the magistrate in person, with original ID.
SK Document Centre has helped people in Delhi NCR with attestation, affidavits, apostille and embassy legalisation for over a decade. Questions about your documents? WhatsApp us.
