What is The Process to Change Your Name on Documents?

Comprehensive Guide to Gazette Notification for Name Change: Process, Fees, and Steps

Changing your identity officially is a significant legal step. Whether it’s due to marriage, spelling errors, or a personal preference for a new identity, a gazette name change is the most authentic way to make it legally binding in India. Without a Central Gazette notification, updating your name on government documents like Passports, PAN cards, or Bank accounts can become a major hurdle.

In this guide, we will break down the entire process of obtaining a gazette notification for name change so you can navigate the legalities with ease.

Why is a Gazette Notification for Name Change Important?

A Gazette of India notification is a public journal published by the Department of Publication, Government of India. It serves as ultimate legal proof that you have officially changed your name.

While an affidavit might work for some local purposes, most government departments and financial institutions strictly require a gazette for name change to update their records. It is especially crucial for:

• Correcting spelling errors in educational certificates.

• Updating identity proofs like Aadhaar and Passport.

• Legalizing a name change for government employees in service records.

Step-by-Step Process for Gazette Name Change Online 

The process might seem daunting, but it follows a systematic three-step legal procedure. 

1. Affidavit Submission

First, you need to visit a local Notary and create an affidavit for a change of name. It should state your old name, new name, father’s/husband’s name, and the reason for the change.

2. Newspaper Advertisement

You must publish an advertisement in two local newspapers—one in the regional language and one in English. This is to ensure there are no public objections to your name change.

3. Gazette Application & Publication

The final step is submitting your application to the Department of Publication. Once they verify your documents, your name change is published in the official gazette.

Documents Required Checklist 

To ensure your gazette form for name change isn't rejected, keep these documents ready: 

Document Type Description

Affidavit Original Notarized Affidavit (duly signed).

Newspaper Original copies of the two newspapers where the ad appeared.

Identity Proof Self-attested copies of PAN, Aadhaar, or Voter ID.

Photographs Two passport-sized photographs (cross-signed).

Application Form Duly filled and signed "Specimen Proforma."

CD/Digital Copy A digital copy of the application (MS Word) in a CD.

Payment Receipt Proof of online fee payment (Bharatkosh).

Specific Scenarios for Name Correction Gazette 

Sometimes, you don't need a full name change but just a minor correction. The process remains largely the same, but the focus is on the discrepancy. 

Surname Change Gazette

If you are looking for a surname change gazette specifically after marriage or divorce, you must provide the relevant marriage certificate or divorce decree alongside your application. 

Name Change for Minors 

For children under 18, the how to name change for minor process requires the parents to sign the affidavit and the gazette application on the child's behalf. 

Regional Variations 

While the Central Gazette is valid nationwide, some people prefer state-level publications. For instance, the gazette name change process in Uttar Pradesh might have slight variations in local forms compared to other states. 

Fees and Timeline 

The government fee for a gazette certificate for name change varies based on the category (General vs. Tatkaal) and the complexity of the change.

• Estimated Fee: Usually ranges between ₹1,100 to ₹1,500 for general cases.

• Timeline: It typically takes 30 to 45 days for the notification to appear in the e-Gazette portal after successful submission.

Common FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

1. Is an offline visit required to the Gazette office? 

No, you can send your documents via registered post to the Controller of Publications in Civil Lines, Delhi.

2. Is a Gazette notification mandatory for a name change in Aadhaar? 

While not always mandatory for minor spelling fixes, it is highly recommended for complete name changes to avoid rejection by UIDAI.

3. Can I track my Gazette notification status? 

Yes, once published, you can download the digital copy from the official e-Gazette website using your search parameters.

4. Does the Gazette expire? 

No, a Gazette notification is a permanent legal record and does not have an expiry date.

Conclusion

Securing a gazette name change is the most robust way to ensure your identity remains consistent across all legal platforms. While the paperwork requires attention to detail, following the steps of Affidavit, Newspaper Ad, and Gazette submission will lead to a hassle-free experience.