What Is The Process For Transshipments Bill Apostille Or Attestation From MEA?

Transshipment is the process of transferring goods from one transportation vessel to another during their journey from the port of origin to the final destination. When it comes to international trade, transshipment plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of goods across different countries. However, for the legal recognition and acceptance of transshipment documents, such as bills of lading, it is often necessary to obtain an apostille or attestation from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India. This process involves a series of steps to authenticate the transshipment bill and certify its validity for international use. In the following sections, I will explain the process for obtaining an apostille or attestation for transshipment bills from the MEA in India.

The process for obtaining apostille or attestation on a Transshipment Bill from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India typically involves the following steps:

1. Preparing The Documents

To begin the process of apostilling or attesting a Transshipment Bill, you need to ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready for submission. The main document you will need is the original Transshipment Bill. It is important to ensure that the Transshipment Bill is complete and accurate before proceeding further. Check for any errors or missing information and make corrections if needed. Additionally, gather any other supporting documents that may be required, such as identification documents or proof of payment.

2. Verification

Before submitting the Transshipment Bill for apostille or attestation, it is usually required to get the document verified by the respective chamber of commerce or any other relevant authority. The purpose of this verification step is to ensure the authenticity of the document. The chamber of commerce or relevant authority will review the Transshipment Bill to confirm its accuracy and legitimacy. They may check details such as the exporter’s information, cargo details, and any relevant endorsements. Once the verification is completed, they will provide a verification certificate or stamp, which will be submitted along with the Transshipment Bill.

3. Submission to MEA

After the Transshipment Bill has been verified, the next step is to visit the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) office or their designated outsourced agency responsible for handling apostille or attestation services. In India, for example, the outsourced agency for document attestation is usually the CPV Division of the Ministry of External Affairs Attestation Cell. This is where you will submit your documents and complete the required procedures.

4. Fill out the Application Form

At the MEA office or the outsourced agency, you will need to obtain the prescribed application form for apostille or attestation. This form will have all the necessary fields and information that you need to provide. It is important to fill in the application form accurately and legibly. Double-check all the details you enter to ensure there are no mistakes or errors. The application form may require information such as your personal details, details of the Transshipment Bill, and the type of service you are applying for (apostille or attestation).

5. Document Submission

Once you have filled out the application form, you will need to submit it along with the original Transshipment Bill and any other supporting documents as requested. Make sure to provide photocopies of all the submitted documents as well. The MEA or the outsourced agency will keep the photocopies for their records. They will review the submitted documents to ensure they are complete and meet the requirements for apostille or attestation.

6. Pay the Fees

There are fees associated with the apostille or attestation service. The fee amount can vary depending on the type of service (apostille or attestation) and the urgency of processing. The MEA or the outsourced agency will inform you about the specific fee amount and the accepted payment methods. You will be required to pay the fees at the designated counter or through the specified payment channels.

7. Processing Time

The processing time for apostille or attestation can vary depending on various factors such as the workload at the MEA or the outsourced agency, the type of service, and the urgency of processing. Generally, it takes a few working days for the process to be completed. However, if you require faster processing, you may have the option to choose an expedited or tatkal service. This service comes with an additional fee, but it ensures faster processing of your documents. The MEA or the outsourced agency will provide you with an estimated processing time and any additional details regarding the expedited service.

8. Collection

Once the apostille or attestation process is completed, you will be notified to collect the documents. The MEA office or the designated collection centre will inform you about the collection procedure

Documents Requirement

1. Transshipment Bill:

 To initiate the process of apostilling or attesting a Transshipment Bill, it is essential to ensure that you have all the required documents prepared for submission. The primary document needed is the original Transshipment Bill, which should be properly completed and accurate in its details. It is crucial to carefully review the Transshipment Bill for any errors or missing information and make necessary corrections. Additionally, gather any supporting documents that may be necessary for the process, such as identification documents or proof of payment.

2. Passport Photocopy (1st, last, and passport officer-signed page) of Signatory in Some Cases:

In certain cases, it may be required to provide a photocopy of the passport of the signatory. This typically includes the first page (containing personal details), the last page (containing the address), and the page with the signature of the passport officer. The purpose of submitting these photocopies is to establish the identity of the signatory and verify their association with the Transshipment Bill. Ensure that the photocopies are clear and legible, and accurately represent the relevant pages of the passport.