An affidavit is a written statement of facts that the person making it swears or affirms to be true. In Pakistan, affidavits are required by government offices, banks, educational institutions, courts and employers for all kinds of purposes. Because an affidavit is made on oath, making a false statement can have serious legal consequences.
Who makes an affidavit?
The person making the affidavit is called the deponent. The deponent states facts within their own knowledge and signs the affidavit before an authorised person, such as an oath commissioner or notary public, who attests it.
Common types of affidavits
- Identity and name affidavits: for name corrections, spelling differences or change of name.
- Date of birth affidavits: where records differ.
- Undertakings: required by educational institutions, employers and government departments.
- Loss of documents: when original documents are lost.
- Income or dependency affidavits: for scholarships or official applications.
- Affidavits of no objection: from family members or co-owners.
- Court affidavits: filed in support of applications in legal proceedings.
Typical format
- Title: “Affidavit” with the purpose.
- Deponent details: name, father’s or husband’s name, CNIC number and address.
- Statements: numbered paragraphs, each stating one fact clearly.
- Verification: a statement that the contents are true and correct to the best of the deponent’s knowledge and belief, and that nothing has been concealed.
- Signature and date of the deponent.
- Attestation by the oath commissioner or notary, with stamp and signature.
Stamp paper
Many affidavits are executed on stamp paper of a specified value. The required value can differ depending on the purpose and the office requesting it. Some offices accept affidavits on plain paper with attestation. Always check what the receiving office requires.
Attestation
The deponent signs the affidavit in the presence of an oath commissioner or notary public, who verifies identity and attests the document. For use abroad, additional attestation by government departments or embassies may be required.
Tips for a valid affidavit
- State only facts you know personally to be true.
- Use clear, simple language.
- Make sure the CNIC number and names match official records.
- Follow the format required by the office or institution.
- Keep a copy for your records.
Consequences of a false affidavit
Making a false statement on oath can lead to criminal liability. If you are unsure about any fact, do not include it, or take legal advice.
Practical example: a name spelling mismatch
A student in Gujrat finds that her name is spelled differently on her matriculation certificate and her CNIC. Her university asks for an affidavit confirming that both names refer to the same person. She prepares an affidavit stating her full name as it appears on each document, her father’s name, her CNIC number and a statement that both spellings refer to her. She signs it before an oath commissioner on the required stamp paper and submits it with copies of both documents. The university accepts it and updates its records.
Sample structure of a simple affidavit
- Heading: “Affidavit” followed by the purpose, such as “Affidavit for Correction of Name”.
- Opening: “I, [name], son/daughter/wife of [name], holder of CNIC No. [number], resident of [address], do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as under:”
- Paragraphs: numbered statements of fact relevant to the purpose.
- Verification: “Verified on oath at [place] on [date] that the contents of this affidavit are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing has been concealed therein.”
- Signature of the deponent and attestation by the oath commissioner or notary.
Affidavits for use abroad
If the affidavit will be used outside Pakistan, it may need additional attestation, for example by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassy of the country concerned, or apostille where applicable. Check the requirements of the receiving authority before preparing the document.
Undertakings versus affidavits
An undertaking is a promise to do or not do something, such as following an institution’s rules. An affidavit is a sworn statement of facts. Some documents combine both. Read the receiving office’s format carefully to know which is required.
Checklist before attestation
- Names and CNIC numbers match official documents.
- Each statement is accurate and within your personal knowledge.
- The correct stamp paper value is used, if required.
- You carry your original CNIC for verification.
- You keep a photocopy of the signed and attested affidavit.
Expert tips
- Ask the receiving office for its preferred format; many have their own templates.
- Avoid adding unnecessary statements that could create confusion.
- Prepare affidavits shortly before submission, as some offices require recent ones.
Key terms explained
- Deponent: The person making the affidavit.
- Oath commissioner: An official authorised to administer oaths and attest affidavits.
- Notary public: An official who notarises documents, often for use abroad.
- Verification: The concluding statement confirming the truth of the affidavit’s contents.
- Apostille: A form of authentication accepted by certain countries for documents used abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Who can attest an affidavit?
Typically an oath commissioner or notary public, depending on where it will be used.
Can an affidavit be prepared online?
The draft can be prepared online, but it must be signed and attested in person according to the requirements.
Is an affidavit valid indefinitely?
Some offices require recently executed affidavits. Check the receiving office’s requirements.
Can someone else sign my affidavit?
No. The deponent must sign personally, as it is a statement on oath.
Need an affidavit drafted?
We draft affidavits in the correct format for your purpose. See our affidavits and power of attorney service or WhatsApp us at +92 329 9554206.
How Tax & Law Hub can help
Our legal team at the District Courts, Gujrat, can:
- draft and send legal notices, and reply to notices you receive,
- prepare rent, sale, partnership and service agreements,
- draft affidavits and general or special powers of attorney,
- verify property documents and advise on civil matters.
Documents can be prepared online, with guidance on stamp paper, attestation and registration.
This article is general information about Pakistani tax, corporate and legal procedures and is not advice for your specific situation. Laws, rates and procedures change, especially through annual Finance Acts. Last reviewed: November 2026. For advice on your case, contact Tax & Law Hub.
