SDM Stamp, Seal & Signature: What They Mean on Your Document

What Is Sdm Stamp And Signature – SK Document Centre

Short answer: An SDM stamp is the official seal and signature of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate on your document, with the date. It is the state government’s confirmation that a personal document is genuine, and the MEA relies on it before adding an apostille or attestation. An “SDM certificate”, by contrast, usually means a certificate the SDM’s office issues, such as income, caste or domicile.

Searches for SDM stamp, SDM seal, SDM signature and SDM certificate are very common, and the words are often mixed up. This short guide explains each one.

The SDM stamp and seal

When the Sub-Divisional Magistrate attests a document, the office adds a round or rectangular seal showing the designation and sub-division, the SDM’s signature, and the date. On documents going abroad, this appears on the back or on the notarised copy. Together, these are the “SDM stamp”.

Why the SDM signature matters

The Ministry of External Affairs does not verify a Delhi birth or marriage certificate itself. It checks that the SDM has verified it. Without the SDM’s signature and seal, the MEA will not issue an apostille or attestation.

SDM attestation vs SDM certificate

Term	What it is	Example
SDM attestation / stamp	Seal and signature on an existing document	Birth certificate going abroad
SDM certificate	A new certificate issued by the SDM’s office	Income, caste (jati), domicile certificate
SDM magistrate attestation	Affidavit sworn before the SDM as executive magistrate	Gap year or name affidavit

Documents that usually need an SDM stamp

Birth and death certificates issued in Delhi
Marriage certificates
Affidavits, including single status and name change
Some medical and experience certificates going abroad

Degrees and marksheets need HRD attestation, not SDM. Read SDM vs HRD attestation.

Can I get my caste or domicile certificate in English?

Certificates issued through Delhi’s e-District system are usually bilingual or in English. If yours is in Hindi or a regional language and is going abroad, you may need a certified translation. See translation services.

Need the SDM stamp on your document? Send a photo of the document or the instruction you received on WhatsApp or call +91 93109 70010. We tell you the exact process, time and charges before you spend anything.

Frequently asked questions

What is an SDM stamp?

The SDM’s seal, signature and date on your document, confirming it at state level.

What does SDM attestation mean?

State-level attestation of a personal document by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, before MEA attestation or apostille.

Is an SDM certificate the same as SDM attestation?

No. An SDM certificate is a new certificate (such as income or domicile). Attestation is a stamp on an existing document.

Can the SDM attest my degree?

No. Degrees need HRD or e-Sanad verification.