How to Get a Bonafide Certificate in India – Online & Offline Process (2025 Guide)

Introduction

A Bonafide Certificate is an official document issued by an organization (such as a school, college, or company) that confirms an individual’s association with that organization. It is often required for educational purposes, applying for scholarships, opening bank accounts, getting travel concessions, or applying for government documents.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about obtaining a bonafide certificate in India, including the online and offline application process, eligibility, required documents, and formats – all updated for 2025.

What is a Bonafide Certificate?

A bonafide certificate acts as proof that a person belongs to a particular institution. It includes the name, course or designation, duration of association, and is usually signed by the head or authorized personnel.

Who Needs a Bonafide Certificate?

Bonafide certificates are commonly needed by:

• Students – for visa applications, scholarships, internships, travel passes, or government forms.
• Employees – for applying for loans, opening bank accounts, or employment verification.
• General Applicants – for passport applications, document verifications, etc.

Documents Required for Bonafide Certificate

How to Apply for a Bonafide Certificate Online

Some educational institutions and companies now offer online application options. Here’s the typical process:

Online Application Process:

1. Visit your institution’s official website or ERP portal.
2. Log in with your student/employee ID.
3. Find the “Apply for Bonafide Certificate” section.
4. Fill in your details (Name, ID, Duration, Purpose).
5. Upload required documents.
6. Submit and download once approved or receive by email __Note: __Availability of online application depends on your institution.

Offline Process to Get a Bonafide Certificate

If online facilities are not available, you can follow this traditional process:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Write an Application Letter to the head of the institution (Principal/HR).
2. Attach required documents.
3. Submit to the admin office or HR department.
4. Receive your certificate within 2–5 working days.

Sample Application for Bonafide Certificate (Student)

To
The Principal
[School/College Name]
[Address]

Subject: Request for Bonafide Certificate

Respected Sir/Madam,
I am [Your Name], a student of [Class/Course Name] in your institution. I require a bonafide certificate for [purpose – e.g., applying for scholarship, passport]. Kindly issue the same at the earliest.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Roll No]
[Date]

Bonafide Certificate Format (Sample)

[Institution Letterhead]
Bonafide Certificate

This is to certify that Mr./Ms. [Name], son/daughter of [Parent's Name], is a bonafide student/employee of [Institution Name]. He/She has been enrolled/working since [Date] in [Course/Department].

This certificate is issued upon request for [purpose].

[Signature]
[Seal of Institution]
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]

How Long Is a Bonafide Certificate Valid?

Usually, it is valid for 3 to 6 months from the date of issue unless specified otherwise for a particular use case (like visa or loan applications).

Common Uses of Bonafide Certificate

• Passport/Visa application
• Scholarship applications
• Travel concession (bus/train)
• Bank account opening
• Loan processing
• Internship or training application

FAQs on Bonafide Certificate

Q1. What is a bonafide certificate used for in India? - A bonafide certificate is used as official proof that a person belongs to a specific institution or organization. It's commonly needed for student scholarships, opening bank accounts, visa applications, or government schemes.

Q2. How can I apply for a bonafide certificate online? - To apply online, visit the official website of your school, college, or employer. Fill the bonafide certificate request form, upload required documents like ID proof or admission proof, and submit it. You’ll receive the certificate by email or download link.

Q3. Which documents are required for a bonafide certificate? - Typically, you need a valid ID proof (like Aadhaar card), an application form, admission or employment proof, and sometimes a fee receipt. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the institution.

Q4. How long does it take to get a bonafide certificate in India? - It usually takes 1 to 7 working days depending on your institution. Some colleges and companies issue it within 24 hours, especially through online applications.

Q5. Is a bonafide certificate and character certificate the same? - No, a bonafide certificate confirms your association with an institution, while a character certificate verifies your behavior and moral conduct. Both serve different purposes.

Q6. Can I download a bonafide certificate format in PDF? - Yes, many institutions provide downloadable formats on their websites. You can also request a PDF from the office or receive it by email after application. PSR Compliance can help you with the correct format.

Q7. Do I need a bonafide certificate for government schemes or visa? - Yes, most government schemes, student concessions, and visa applications ask for a bonafide certificate to confirm your enrollment or employment status.