Gazette Name Change Online

Changing your name is a significant life decision, whether it's due to marriage, divorce, or a personal preference. However, simply updating your social media profile isn't enough. For your new name to be legally valid across all government records—like your PAN card, Aadhaar, and Passport—you must go through the official legal channel.

The most crucial step in this journey is getting a gazette notification for name change. This official document serves as the ultimate legal proof that you have abandoned your old name and adopted a new one.

In this guide, we will break down the gazette name change online process, making it simple for common people, students, and legal professionals to follow.

What is a Gazette Notification and Why is it Necessary?

A Gazette is an official public journal published by the government. When you apply for a name change, the government publishes your declaration in the "Gazette of India" (for Central) or the "State Gazette."

Why do you need it?

• Legal Validity: It is the only document accepted by all banks and government departments.

• Aadhaar & Passport Updates: Without a gazette, updating these documents after a name change can be nearly impossible.

• Correction of Errors: It is used for name correction gazette services if your name was misspelled in educational certificates.

• Surname Changes: Necessary for surname change gazette applications after marriage or personal choice.

Step-by-Step Guide for Gazette Name Change Online

The process has moved significantly toward digital platforms, making it easier than ever. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth gazette name change experience:

1. Create an Affidavit

The first step is to visit a local notary and create a "Change of Name Affidavit." This document must state your old name, new name, current address, and the reason for the change. It should be printed on a non-judicial stamp paper of nominal value (usually ₹10 to ₹100).

2. Publish a Newspaper Advertisement

You must publish a small notification in local newspapers:

• One in the local vernacular language (e.g., Hindi, Marathi, Bengali).
  Keep at least 3-4 original copies of these newspapers as they are required for the gazette for name change application.

3. Prepare the Gazette Application

Visit the official Department of Publication website. You will need to fill out the change of name gazette form and the "Specimen" document (proforma). Ensure the information matches your affidavit and newspaper ads exactly.

4. Payment of Fees

Pay the required government fee online via Bharatkosh or the specified payment gateway. Download the receipt as proof of payment.

5. Submit the Application

Submit the physical or digital copies (depending on state/central rules) to the Department of Publication. Once processed, your name change will appear in the digital Gazette of India.

Fees and Timeline for Gazette Certificate

The cost and time involved can vary depending on whether you are applying as a private citizen or a government employee.

• Government Fees: For a standard name change, the fee typically varies and depending on the type of name change. For minors or specific corrections, it may differ.

• Timeline: Once the application is submitted and accepted, it usually takes 30 to 60 days for the notification to be published in the e-Gazette.

• Downloading the Certificate: Since 2015, the government has stopped issuing physical copies. You can download your gazette certificate for name change directly from the official portal once it is published.

Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them

Even with the gazette name change online system, many applications get rejected due to small errors. To avoid delays:

1. Check Spellings: Ensure your name is spelled identically across the affidavit, newspaper, and the gazette form.

2. Clear Signatures: Use the same signature (new name signature) where required.

3. Correct Proforma: Use the latest version of the application forms provided by the Department of Publication.