Gazette Notification for Name Change - Step by Step Guide 

 What is a Gazette Notification?

A Gazette for Name Change is an official public record published by the Government of India (Central Gazette) or a State Government. It acts as a legal declaration that your old name has been replaced by a new one. Once your name is published in the Gazette Notification for Name Change, it becomes a permanent public record that no authority can challenge.

Why Do You Need a Name Change in Gazette?

While an affidavit might suffice for local identity corrections, a Name Change Gazette is mandatory for:

• Passport Updates: Changing your name or surname in an Indian Passport.

• Government Jobs: Updating service records for state or central employees.

• Banking: Changing names in primary bank accounts or high-value assets.

• Education: Updating names on degrees and mark sheets.

• Name Change in Aadhaar Card: For significant changes that go beyond simple spelling corrections.

 Step-by-Step Name Change Process

Navigating the Gazette Name Change Process involves three main phases. Follow these steps precisely to avoid rejection.

Step 1: Create a Name Change Affidavit

The foundation of the Name Change Process is a legal affidavit.

• Drafting: Mention your old name, new name, full address, and the reason for the change (e.g., marriage, spelling correction).

• Stamp Paper: Print this on a non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹10 or ₹100 depending on your state).

• Notarization: Get it signed and stamped by a Notary Public.

Step 2: Newspaper Advertisement

You must inform the public about your identity shift.

• Two Newspapers: Publish the ad in one leading English newspaper and one vernacular (regional) newspaper in your area.

• Content: The ad must include your old name, new name, date of affidavit, and residential address.

• Keep Originals: Do not just cut the ad; keep at least 3-5 original full-page copies of the newspapers.

Step 3: Prepare the Government File & Digital CD

The Department of Publication requires a physical file and a digital copy.

• The CD: Create a digital version of your application in MS Word (.docx format).

• The Certificate: A signed declaration stating that the content of the hard copy and the CD are identical.

• Photos: Two passport-sized photographs cross-signed by the applicant.

Step 4: Pay Fees via Bharatkosh

The Gazette Name Change Online process involves paying the government fee through the Bharatkosh portal (bharatkosh.gov.in).

• Select the "Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs."

• Choose the "Department of Publication."

• Save the e-receipt; you must attach it to your file.

Step 5: Submission

You can submit your file in person at the Department of Publication, Civil Lines, Delhi, or send it via Speed Post/Registered Post.

Fee Structure & Timeline (2026)

Estimated Costs

• Government Fee: Approx. ₹1,100 (for adults) to ₹1,700 (for complex cases).

• Affidavit & Notary: ₹300 – ₹500.

• Newspaper Ads: ₹800 – ₹2,000 (varies by publication).

Expected Timeline

• Preparation (Affidavit + Ads): 7–10 days.

• Government Processing: 30–60 days.

• Publication: The Gazette is typically published every Saturday. You can download the digital copy from egazette.gov.in.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes

Expert Advice

• Consistency is Key: Ensure the spelling of your name is identical across the Affidavit, Newspaper, and Application form. Even a single letter mismatch will lead to rejection.

• Download, Don't Wait: The government no longer sends physical copies. Download your Gazette Name Change PDF as soon as it is published.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Clipped Ads: Sending only the small newspaper cutting instead of the full original page.

• Old Affidavits: Using an affidavit that is more than 6 months old.

• Witness Errors: Forgetting to get the application form signed by two witnesses.

Downloadable Resources & Summary

Related Summary

• Aadhaar Name Change: Use your Gazette copy to update your biometrics and name at any Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

• Passport Re-issue: A Gazette notification is mandatory for a name change in the "Re-issue" category.

• Surname Change After Marriage: Often simplified with just a marriage certificate, but Gazette is safer for international travel.

Download Links

• Sample Name Change Affidavit Format (PDF)

• Gazette Application Proforma (Word Doc)

• Newspaper Advertisement Sample Text

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is Gazette Name Change Online fully digital?

A: You can pay the fees and download the final copy online, but you must still courier the physical documents and CD to the Delhi office.

Q2: Can I change my name in India without a Gazette?

A: For social use, yes. For legal documents like Passports and Bank accounts, a Gazette for Name Change is essential.

Q3: What is the fee for a minor's name change?

A: The government fee for minors is usually lower, starting around ₹600–₹1,100, depending on the specific case.

Q4: How can I track my Gazette application?

A: You can check the status on the official Department of Publication website using your receipt number.

Q5: Is a Central Gazette valid in all states?

A: Yes, the Change Name in India via Central Gazette is recognized by every state and central authority.

Q6: Do I need a lawyer for this?

A: It is not mandatory, but professional guidance can help avoid technical rejections.

Q7: Can I change my religion and name together?

A: Yes, but this requires additional declarations in your affidavit and a specific category in the Gazette.

Q8: What if my application is rejected?

A: You will receive an objection letter. You must rectify the error (e.g., wrong CD format) and resubmit.

Q9: Do I need to visit Delhi?

A: No, you can complete the Gazette Name Change Process by sending documents via registered post.

Q10: How long is the Gazette notification valid?

A: It is valid for a lifetime.

Conclusion

Ready to start your Gazette Name Change journey? Don't let legal paperwork hold you back. Follow this guide to prepare your file today! If you need expert assistance to ensure a 100% rejection-free application, Contact our Legal Experts now for a free consultation.