What is Gazette Notification 

Complete Guide to Gazette Notification 2026: Process, Fees & Documents

Have you ever wondered how a person’s legal identity is updated in the eyes of the government? Whether you are changing your name after marriage, correcting a spelling error in your birth certificate, or adopting a new persona, the ultimate legal stamp of approval in India is a Gazette notification.

Historically, the concept of an official journal dates back to Hicky’s Bengal Gazette in the late 18th century. Today, it has evolved into a sophisticated digital system. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down what is Gazette Notification, the name change process, and how to navigate the department of publication without any hassle.

What is Gazette Notification? 

To put it simply, a Gazette notification is an official public journal published by the government. It acts as a legal record of all government decisions, appointments, and, most importantly for citizens, legal name changes or corrections.

When your name is published in the Gazette, it becomes an "authentic document" that no government department or private bank can deny. It is the final step in the name change gazette journey, ensuring your new identity is recognized nationwide.

Why Do You Need a Gazette Name Change? 

While a simple affidavit might work for local identity proofs, a name change gazette is mandatory for:

• Updating Passports and Visas.

• Correcting educational certificates (10th/12th Marksheets).

• Banking and Property transactions.

• Name change after marriage or divorce.

• Gender or Religion change.

• Signature change for legal reasons.

Central Gazette vs. State Gazette 

One of the most common points of confusion is whether to apply for a central gazette notification or a state one.

Pro Tip: We highly recommend the central gazette notification because it is universally accepted by all departments, including the Ministry of External Affairs.

The Gazette Notification Process 

The gazette notification process can be broken down into three essential stages. Follow these to ensure your application isn't rejected by the department of publication.

Step 1: Making the Affidavit

The first step is to visit a local notary and create a "Name Change Affidavit." This document should state your old name, new name, address, and the reason for the change.

Step 2: Newspaper Advertisement

You must publish an advertisement in two newspapers:

• One local vernacular (regional) language newspaper.

• One English national newspaper.

Keep at least 3-4 original copies of these newspapers; you will need the full page for the application.

Step 3: Preparation of Digital CD and Forms

The department of publication requires a digital version of your advertisement in a .docx format. You must burn this onto a CD and sign it. You also need to fill out the "Deed Change Name" form provided by the government.

Step 4: Payment via Bharatkosh

The government no longer accepts cash or demand drafts in most cases. You must pay the fee through Bharatkoshh, the integrated financial management system of India. Save the receipt (Challan) as proof.

Required Documents Checklist 

Before sending your file, ensure you have these documents ready in a legal folder: 

Fees and Timeline 

• Government Fees: For a general gazette name change, the fee starts around ₹1,100. For minors, it may vary.

• Timeline: Once the file reaches the department of publication in Civil Lines, Delhi, it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks for the notification to appear on the official website (egazette.gov.in).
  
  
  

Related Summaries: Special Cases

 
Name Change of Minor

For children below 18 years, the process is slightly different. The parents or legal guardians must sign the affidavit and the application forms. The Name Change of Minor process is frequently used when parents divorce or when there is a spelling error in the birth certificate that needs correction before school board exams.

Name Change After Marriage

This is the most common reason for a gazette notification for name change. While a marriage certificate is often enough for local ID updates, a Gazette notification provides a foolproof legal bridge between the woman's maiden name and her married name for international travel and property rights.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Witness Errors: Ensure your witnesses are not family members. They should be friends or colleagues.

• Font Issues on CD: Use standard fonts like Times New Roman. Do not use decorative fonts on the digital file.

• Incomplete Newspaper Info: The ad must contain your full address and the correct spelling of both old and new names.

• Payment Mismatch: Ensure the name on the Bharatkoshh receipt matches the applicant's name.