Gazette Certificate for Name Change

Gazette Certificate for Name Change is the most vital legal document you will ever need if you decide to alter your identity in India. Whether you are changing your name after marriage, correcting a pesky spelling error in school records, or adopting a new persona for astrological reasons, this official government notification is the gold standard of proof.

While the idea of dealing with government offices can feel overwhelming, the Name Change Process has become significantly more streamlined in 2026. Transitioning from your old identity to a new one is not just a personal milestone; it is a legal necessity to ensure your Aadhaar, Passport, and bank accounts remain valid. In this guide, we will break down everything from the initial affidavit to the final Gazette Name Change Online publication.

Why Do You Need a Gazette Notification for Name Change?

In India, a name change is not legally complete until it is published in the Official Gazette. While an affidavit and newspaper ads are stepping stones, most high-security institutions—like the Passport Office or Central Banks—will strictly demand a Gazette Certificate for Name Change.

Legal Validity and Universal Acceptance

A Gazette For Name Change ensures that your new identity is recognized by the Government of India. This document is a permanent public record. Once your name appears in the Gazette, it serves as "undisputed proof," meaning no department can legally reject your new name.

Updating Key Identity Documents

If you intend to Change Name in Gazette, you are likely doing so to update other records. You will need this certificate for:

• Updating your Aadhaar Card and PAN Card.

• Modifying your Passport details for international travel.

• Correcting Educational Certificates (Class 10th/12th).

• Updating Bank Accounts and Insurance policies.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Name Change Process

The Name Change Process is structured into three primary phases. Following these steps carefully prevents your application from being rejected by the Department of Publication.

Step 1: Drafting the Name Change Affidavit

The foundation of your application is a notarized affidavit. This is a legal declaration made on a non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹10 or ₹100). The affidavit must clearly state your old name, your new name, your full residential address, and the reason for the change. It must be signed by a deponent and attested by a Notary Public or Magistrate.

Step 2: Newspaper Advertisement

Once the affidavit is ready, you must inform the public. You are required to publish a short notice in two local newspapers:

1. One English daily newspaper.

2. One Regional language (Vernacular) newspaper of your state.
   The ad should include your old name, new name, address, and the date of your affidavit. Ensure you keep at least 5-10 original copies of these newspapers, as the Gazette office requires the full page, not just a clipping.

Step 3: Submission for Gazette Notification

This is the final hurdle. You must compile a "Gazette Kit" and submit it to the Controller of Publications. In 2026, you can opt for a Gazette Name Change Online submission or visit the Civil Lines office in Delhi. Your kit must include a digital CD containing your name change details in MS Word format, ensuring the soft copy matches the hard copy exactly.

Estimated Fees and Timeline for 2026

Budgeting for your Gazette Name Change is essential. While professional fees vary, the government charges are fixed.

• Government Fees: For an Adult (General), the official fee is approximately ₹1,100. For Minors, the fee is slightly higher, around ₹1,700.

• Payment Method: Fees are generally paid via the Bharatkosh portal (bharatkosh.gov.in).

• Timeline: The entire journey from drafting the affidavit to seeing your name in the Gazette Name Change India portal typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. This depends on the processing speed of the Department of Publication and any potential public holidays.