Gazette for Online Name Change

Why is a Gazette for Name Change Essential?

A Gazette is an official public journal published by the government. When you change name in Gazette, it acts as a permanent public record. While an affidavit or a newspaper ad might suffice for some local needs, the Gazette Notification for Name Change is mandatory for updating critical documents like your Passport, PAN Card, and Aadhaar.

Legal Recognition and Security

Without an official Gazette notification for name change process, you may face hurdles during visa applications or property transactions. It provides a "clean" legal trail that prevents identity fraud and ensures that your academic degrees and professional licenses remain valid under your new name.

The 3-Step Process for Gazette Name Change Online

The journey to a new name involves three critical legal pillars. Understanding the what is name change process will help you avoid common mistakes and rejections.

1. Draft a Name Change Affidavit

The first step is to create a notarized affidavit. This is a voluntary declaration made on non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹10 to ₹100). The affidavit must clearly state your old name, your new name, your current residential address, and the reason for the change. It must be signed by you and attested by a Notary Public or a Magistrate.

2. Newspaper Advertisement

Once the affidavit is ready, you must inform the public. You are required to publish a notice in local newspapers:

• One in a regional language daily (where you reside).
  Keep the original full-page clippings of these advertisements, as they are mandatory for your Name Change Gazette Online application.

3. Submission for Gazette Notification

The final and most crucial step is the Gazette for Name Change. You must submit a compilation of your documents to the Department of Publication. This includes a digital CD containing your details in .docx format, the original affidavit, and the newspaper clippings.

Fees and Timeline for Gazette Name Change

Understanding the costs and time involved helps in planning your transition. As of 2026, the government has streamlined the Gazette for Name Change Online process to make it more accessible for common citizens.

• Government Fees: The standard fee for a general category applicant for Gazette Name Change usually ranges from ₹1,100 to ₹1,500. For specific cases like religion change or minor name changes, the fee might vary slightly.

• Timeline: Once the file is submitted to the Department of Publication in Civil Lines, Delhi, it typically takes 30 to 45 days for the notification to appear in the e-Gazette.

• Method of Payment: Fees are generally paid via the Bharat Kosh portal (NTRP), and the receipt must be attached to your physical or digital file.

Benefits of Obtaining a Name Change Gazette Online

In the digital age, you no longer need to wait for physical copies to be mailed to you. The Gazette Name Change can now be tracked and downloaded online through the official e-Gazette website.