Discovering your original degree is missing — just when a job or admission needs it apostilled — is stressful. But it is a recoverable situation. Because apostille requires an original (or properly certified copy), the path forward is to replace the document first, then legalise it. Here is how.
Step 1 — Confirm you truly need the original
Apostille cannot be done on a plain photocopy, so a lost original does need replacing. Check whether you have any certified copy that your university or a notary can validate — but in most cases you will need a duplicate original.
Step 2 — Apply for a duplicate from your university
Contact your university’s examination or certificate section and apply for a duplicate degree certificate. Most universities have a defined process for this, which typically requires:
- A written application for a duplicate.
- A police report (FIR) or affidavit declaring the loss, if the university requires it.
- Supporting documents — your mark sheets, enrolment number, ID.
- The applicable fee.
Step 3 — File a loss report if required
Some universities and situations require an FIR or a notarised affidavit documenting the loss before they will issue a duplicate. Complete this early, as it can be a prerequisite.
Step 4 — Apostille the duplicate
Once you have the duplicate original in hand, take it through the standard chain — state HRD verification, then MEA apostille (or embassy attestation for non-Hague destinations). A genuine, university-issued duplicate is fully apostillable.
Protect yourself going forward
- Keep scanned copies of all your certificates.
- Store originals safely and never laminate them.
- Start the duplicate process early — university reissue can take time.
A lost original degree is a delay, not a disaster. Apply for a duplicate, complete any loss formalities, and apostille the reissued certificate — and your plans stay on track.
Quick FAQ
Can I apostille a photocopy if I lost my original degree?
No — apostille needs an original or properly certified copy. You’ll need to obtain a duplicate original from your university first.
How do I get a duplicate degree?
Apply to your university’s certificate section, usually with a written application, a loss report or affidavit if required, supporting documents and the fee.
Can the duplicate be apostilled?
Yes — a genuine, university-issued duplicate original goes through the normal apostille chain.
How Manav Corporate Consultants can help
At Manav Corporate Consultants (MCC), we handle the complete apostille and attestation journey — checking your documents for issues before submission, then managing notarisation, state and Chamber of Commerce verification, MEA apostille and embassy legalisation — with doorstep pick-up and drop across India and genuine, online-verifiable results. As an ISO 9001:2015-certified, MEA-licensed firm, we help you avoid the errors that cause rejections and delays.
Mumbai – +91 7738980318 / Chennai – +91 96770 59423 / Pune – +91 9970466594 | info@manavconsultants.com | www.manavconsultants.com