Hello everyone. Today, I want to share my personal experience of the HEC documents attestation process for pursuing higher education in Portugal. If you’re considering studying abroad then complete your attested educational document file before applying to any university. Hopefully, my journey will guide and inspire you to take the step.
I completed my Master’s in Chemistry back in 2021. As 2025 begins, I’ve decided to take my academic journey further by pursuing a PhD in Chemistry. Like many of you, I explored numerous countries before choosing Portugal. And let me tell you, the decision wasn’t easy.
Portugal is not just beautiful but has many facilities for international students with a strong academic reputation. What drew me to Portugal was its blend of affordability, quality education, and opportunities for international students. If you’re looking for a fulfilling academic journey, Portugal should definitely be on your radar.
Benefits of Study in Portugal
- Portuguese universities are known worldwide for their high academic standards and research.
- They offer advanced research in chemistry, with access to top labs and projects.
- Portugal has lower tuition fees than many other European countries, making it attractive for international students.
- PhD students can find various funding and scholarships, including grants for international researchers.
- Many Portuguese universities partner with global institutions, offering broader perspectives and networking.
- Professors are approachable and supportive, creating a good learning environment.
- Studying in Portugal exposes you to diverse cultures for your personal and professional development.
- International students can work in Portugal after graduating.
- Portugal’s great weather, rich history, and friendly people make for a balanced and enjoyable student experience.
Document Attestation for Study Abroad
Once I decided to apply, I started researching various universities in Portugal. The first thing I noticed was that almost all of them required attested academic documents. For most programs, you need Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Some universities also require matriculation and intermediate certificates to be attested—but only if specified. If this is the case, you need to attest those certificates from the relevant board first and then from the Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC).
Step by Step HEC Document Attestation Process
Attesting your academic documents through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan is important for study abroad. HEC offers two primary methods for degree attestation.
- Walk-in method
- Attestation through courier
1. HEC Walk-in Attestation Process
HEC provides an urgent walk-in service for applicants who require immediate attestation.
- Create an account on the HEC e-portal: HEC e-portal.
- Complete the online application form, ensuring all information is accurate.
- Upload scanned copies of your degrees, transcripts, and CNIC.
- After submitting the application, schedule an appointment for the walk-in service.
- Choose a convenient date and time from the available slots.
- Pay the attestation fee online through the 1-Link payment system integrated into your HEC profile.
- Verify the payment within your profile to proceed.
- On the scheduled date, visit the designated HEC office with original documents and a set of photocopies.
- Submit your documents at the counter and receive a token number.
- Wait for your turn; the process typically takes a few hours.
Note: Fees are subject to change; please verify the latest fees on the HEC website.
2. Courier Attestation Process
For applicants unable to visit in person, HEC offers attestation through designated courier services.
- Access the HEC e-portal: HEC e-portal.
- Fill out the online application form accurately.
- Upload the required documents, including degrees, transcripts, and CNIC.
- Make the attestation fee payment online via the 1-Link payment system.
- Ensure the payment is verified in your HEC profile before proceeding.
- After payment verification, the option to attest through courier will be enabled.
- Print the application form and attach it to your documents.
- Send the complete set of documents through HEC’s designated courier service.
- HEC will process the attestation upon receiving your documents.
- The attested documents will be returned to you via courier.
Note: Always confirm the latest fee structure on the official HEC website.
Important Considerations:
- Ensure all information provided is accurate to avoid delays.
- Original documents are mandatory for attestation; photocopies alone are not accepted.
- For courier services, use only HEC’s designated courier partners to ensure the security of your documents.
For detailed guidelines and updates, refer to HEC’s official page: HEC Degree Attestation.
Document Attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
Once your degree is attested by the HEC, you can proceed to MOFA for further attestation.
Gather the required documents:
- Original degree attested by HEC
- Photocopy of your degree
- Your national ID card (CNIC or equivalent) and a photocopy
- Attestation application form (can usually be found on the MOFA website or obtained at their office)
My number on the token was 2090. That was a long wait in foreign office hall. I didn’t waste my time and wrote a few linkedin posts by sitting there. A woman was sitting beside me. We talked and became friends. That’s how I spend my time there 😂there. Finally my number called and I got my attested degrees and we came back home.
What’s Next? Degree Apostille from MOFA
The next step in the process is getting an apostille from MOFA. This is crucial for your documents to be recognized in Portugal. I’ll be sharing the details of this step in my next blog, so stay tuned!
Final Thoughts
Follow all above steps to avoid any issue. If you’re planning to study abroad, don’t let the paperwork discourage you. Take it one step at a time, and remember that every effort brings you closer to your dreams. Portugal awaits you with open arms. Good luck with your application process, and feel free to ask me any questions in the comments. You can also contact me by email at [email protected]. Bye for now!