International Documentation & Enforcement

Yes. Pakistani public documents can generally be apostilled for use in countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention, including Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom and the United States. Pakistan became a party to the Convention on 9 March 2023. However, the document must meet the applicable Pakistani requirements and any specific requirements of the country where it will be used.

Processing time depends on the type of document, any required prior attestations and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' processing arrangements. For example, educational documents may require prior verification or attestation from authorities such as HEC or IBCC before they can be apostilled. Applicants can submit documents through the applicable MOFA process or authorised courier services.

A foreign judgment may be recognised or enforced in Pakistan, but enforcement is not automatic. UK judgments may, subject to the requirements and exceptions under Pakistani law, qualify for execution under Section 44-A of the Code of Civil Procedure. Other foreign judgments, including Saudi judgments, may require recognition or enforcement proceedings in Pakistan under the applicable legal framework. The procedure depends on the nature of the judgment, the issuing court and the specific facts of the case.