Gazette for Name Change Process in Delhi- Step By Step Process

Visual Process: Step-by-Step Flowchart

Affidavit Creation ➔ Newspaper Advertisement ➔ Government Fee Payment ➔ Application Submission ➔ Gazette Publication

Detailed Guide to Change Name in India

To successfully navigate the Gazette for Name Change, follow these five essential steps:

Step 1: Drafting the Affidavit

The first step is to prepare a legal affidavit on a non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹10 or ₹20). Mention your old name, new name, address, and the reason for the change.

Step 2: Newspaper Advertisement

You must publish a notification in local newspaper (One newspaper is enough for name change process). Ensure the ad clearly states both your old and new names.

Step 3: Online Fee Payment

Visit the BharatKosh portal to pay the required government fees. The receipt of this payment is mandatory for your application.

Step 4: Document Preparation

Gather all your ID proofs and the signed application form. This is the most crucial part of the Name Change in Gazette procedure to avoid rejections.

Step 5: Submission & Publication

Submit your physical file to the Department of Publication (Civil Lines, Delhi). Once verified, your digital Gazette Notification for Name Change will be published on the official website.

Central Gazette vs. State Gazette

Central Gazette -  Accepted by Passport, Banks, & Globally ,  Online/Postal (Centralized)  , High Trust Value .

State Gazette - Mostly limited to State-level works , Varies by State  , Moderate Trust Value.

Mandatory Documents Checklist

Before you visit the office or post your file, ensure you have:

• [ ] Original Affidavit (Attested by Notary).

• [ ] Original Newspaper clippings (Full page).

• [ ] Two passport-sized photographs (Self-attested).

• [ ] ID Proofs (Aadhar, PAN, or Voter ID).

• [ ] BharatKosh Fee Receipt.

• [ ] CD containing the soft copy of your application in .docx format.

Why Is It Important?

Understanding what is Gazette Notification is vital because it is the only document that updates your name in the eyes of the Central Government. If you want to Change Name in Gazette, accuracy in your application is the key to ranking high in the approval list.

Modern systems have made it easier to track your Gazette Name Change Online, allowing you to download the PDF once it is published.

Top 5 Reasons for Application Rejection (Pro-Tip)

1. Incomplete Documents: Missing the CD or the BharatKosh receipt.

2. Signature Mismatch: Signatures on the affidavit and application form must match.

3. Old Newspaper Ads: Using ads older than 6 months.

4. Incorrect Format: Not using the specific government-prescribed proforma.

5. Unclear Photos: Using blurred or non-attested photographs.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a Gazette notification mandatory for a name change?

Yes, for changing names in Passports, Banks, and Government records, a Gazette is the gold standard.

2. Can I apply for a Gazette Name Change Online?

The fee payment is online, but the physical file must currently be submitted or sent via post to the Delhi office.

3. How much does it cost to change name in India?

The government fee usually ranges between ₹1,100 to ₹1,400 depending on the case (Minor/Adult/Government employee).

4. How can I download my Gazette copy?

You can visit egazette.nic.in and search using your name or the date of publication.

5. Is the Gazette notification valid for a lifetime?

Yes, once published, it remains a valid legal document forever.

6. Do I need to visit Delhi personally?

No, you can send your documents via Speed Post to the Department of Publication.

7. Can I change my surname after marriage via Gazette?

Yes, marriage is one of the most common reasons for Gazette publication.

8. What if there is a spelling mistake in my current Gazette?

You will have to go through the rectification process, which is similar to a new application.

9. Can a minor’s name be changed?

Yes, the parents or legal guardians must sign the affidavit on behalf of the minor.

10. How many newspapers are required for the ad?

One newspaper is sufficient for name change in gazette notification.