How to Navigate the Gazette Name Change Process 

Understanding the Gazette For Name Change

A Gazette For Name Change is an official public record published by the Government of India. It serves as the ultimate proof of your new identity. While many believe that a simple affidavit or a newspaper ad is enough, most government institutions today demand a Gazette Notification for Name Change to ensure there is no fraud or identity theft involved.

Why is the Gazette Notification Essential?

In the eyes of the law, a name change without a Gazette notification is often viewed as incomplete. This document is the "gold standard" for identity verification. It is particularly mandatory for:

• Updating Central Government records.

• Modifying names in Indian Passports.

• Correcting educational certificates.

• Applying for government jobs.

Step-by-Step Gazette for Name Change Process

Navigating the Gazette for Name Change Process requires precision. Even a small spelling error can lead to rejection, forcing you to start from scratch. Following these steps systematically will ensure a smooth transition.

1. Drafting the Name Change Affidavit

The first step is to create a legal affidavit on a non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹10 or ₹20). This document must state your old name, your new name, your full residential address, and the specific reason for the change. Once drafted, it must be notarized by a Notary Public or a Magistrate.

2. Newspaper Publication

After the affidavit is ready, you must inform the public. You are required to publish an advertisement in newspaper: Ensure the ad includes your old name, new name, father’s/husband’s name, and address. Keep at least 4-5 original copies of these newspapers, as clippings alone are often not accepted.

3. Submission of the Application File

Once you have your affidavit and newspaper ads, you must compile your application file for the Department of Publication. This file is typically sent to the Gazette Office in Civil Lines, Delhi. It is often recommended to seek professional guidance to ensure your file meets the stringent government standards.

Name Change in Delhi: Local vs. Central Gazette

If you are looking for a Name Change in Delhi, you have two options: the State Gazette or the Central Gazette. While the State Gazette is valid within Delhi, the Central Gazette is universally accepted across all states and by foreign embassies.

For residents of the capital, the Name Change in Gazette procedure is relatively centralized since the Department of Publication is located right in the city. However, even if you live outside Delhi, the process remains the same—you can submit your documents via registered post.

Mandatory Documents for Change Name in Gazette

To successfully Change Name in Gazette, you must submit a complete dossier. Missing even one document can delay the publication by months.

• Original Notarized Affidavit.

• Original full page of the English and Regional newspapers.

• A prescribed Proforma (application form) signed by the applicant and two witnesses.

• A digital CD containing the soft copy of the application (in .docx format).

• Two self-attested passport-sized photographs.

• Self-attested copies of ID proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Passport).

• Government fee receipt paid via the Bharat Kosh portal.

Costs and Timeline for Name Change in Gazette

The government fee for a Name Change in Gazette usually starts at approximately ₹1,100 for adults and ₹1,700 for minors. If you are changing your name for specific reasons like religion or gender, the fees may vary.

The entire name change process from start to finish typically takes between 30 to 60 days. Once the government verifies your documents, the notification is published in the e-Gazette, which you can then download online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it mandatory to publish a name change in the Gazette?

While an affidavit might work for local id cards, a Gazette Notification for Name Change is mandatory for updating Passports, bank accounts, and government service records.

2. Can I apply for the Gazette Name Change Process online?

The fee payment and tracking are online, but as of 2026, you must still submit physical copies of your affidavit and newspaper ads to the Department of Publication.

3. How do I download my Gazette notification?

Once your name is published, you can visit the official e-Gazette website (egazette.gov.in) and search for your notification using your name or the publication date.

4. Is the Gazette notification valid for a lifetime?

Yes, once your name change is published in the Official Gazette, it serves as a permanent legal record that never expires.

5. What if there is a mistake in my published Gazette?

If the error was made by the department, you can apply for a "corrigendum" to fix the mistake. If the error was in your submission, you may need to repeat the how to publish name change in gazette steps.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

The Gazette Name Change Process is the final and most vital step in reclaiming your identity. While the paperwork might seem daunting, it is a one-time effort that provides lifelong legal security. Whether you are correcting a spelling error or adopting a new family name, following the official protocol ensures that your transition is recognized by every institution in the country.