What is Gazette Name Change - Name Change Process

What is a Gazette Notification for Name Change?

A Gazette notification is an official public record published by the Government of India (Central Gazette) or a State Government. When you apply for a Gazette For Name Change, the government records your intent and publishes it in "Part IV" of the weekly Gazette.

This document serves as the "Gold Standard" of proof. While an affidavit or a newspaper ad might suffice for some private matters, a Gazette notification for name change is mandatory for updating high-security documents like your Passport, PAN Card, and permanent service records for government employees.

Step-by-Step Gazette for Name Change Process

The Gazette name change process follows a structured three-step legal path. Skipping any of these steps can lead to the rejection of your application.

Step 1: Drafting the Name Change Affidavit

The foundation of your application is a notarized affidavit. This is a legal declaration where you state your old name, your new name, your full address, and the reason for the change.

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

• Notarization: The document must be signed and stamped by a Notary Public or a First-Class Magistrate.

Step 2: Newspaper Advertisement

You must inform the public about your name change by publishing an advertisement in local newspapers:

Regional Language Daily (the language of the state you reside in).
Ensure you keep at least 3-4 original copies of the full newspaper page, as "clippings" are often rejected by the Gazette office.

Step 3: Submission for Name Change in Gazette

The final step is submitting your file to the Department of Publication (Civil Lines, Delhi, for the Central Gazette). This involves preparing a physical file that includes your affidavit, newspaper copies, and a digital CD containing your name change application in MS Word format. Once submitted and verified, the government will publish your details in the Gazette for name change.

How to Apply for Name Change Gazette Online

In 2026, the government has streamlined the process, allowing for Name Change Gazette Online submissions through digital portals. Here is how you can manage the Name Change in Gazette from your home:

1. Visit the e-Gazette Portal: Access the official e-Gazette website to download the "Proforma" for name change.

2. Digital Payment: Use the Bharat Kosh portal to pay the government fees online.

3. Soft Copy Preparation: Ensure your digital CD content exactly matches the hard copy.

4. Verification: Upload your scanned documents (Affidavit, Newspaper, ID) if using a state-specific online portal, or courier the physical file to the Central Gazette office.

Fees, Timeline, and Validity

One of the most frequent questions people ask is: "How long does it take?" and "How much does it cost?"

Estimated Fees

The government fee for a Gazette Name Change for a major (adult) is approximately ₹1,100. For minors, the fee is slightly higher, around ₹1,700. If you are changing your name after a religion change or for a government job, additional charges may apply.

Timeline

• Affidavit & Newspaper: 3–5 days.

• File Processing: 15–20 days.

• Final Publication: 30–60 days.
  The Gazette is typically updated every Saturday. You can download the PDF once it is live on the e-Gazette website.

FAQs: Common Questions on Gazette Name Change

1. Is Gazette notification mandatory for a name change?

Yes, it is mandatory for updating a Passport, high-level government records, and banking documents. To learn more about why it's necessary, see what is Gazette notification and what is its use.

2. Can I change my name multiple times in the Gazette?

Yes, you can. However, each time you must follow the complete three-step process (Affidavit, Newspaper, Gazette) and provide a valid reason for the subsequent change.

3. Do I receive a physical certificate from the government?

No, the government has stopped issuing physical hard copies. You must download the digital e-Gazette PDF from the official website and print it as needed.

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4. Can a minor apply for a Gazette Name Change?

A minor cannot apply themselves. The parents or a legal guardian must file the application on their behalf, including the minor's birth certificate in the document list. You can check how to get a Gazette certificate for name change for minor-specific formats.

5. What if there is a mistake in my published Gazette?

If the error was made by the Department of Publication, you can request a "Corrigendum" (correction). If the error was in your submission, you may have to re-file and pay the fees again.

Final Thoughts: Secure Your Identity Today

The Gazette Name Change process is the ultimate legal shield that protects your identity in the eyes of the law. While the steps are systematic, even a small error in the affidavit or the digital CD format can lead to months of delay. Following a what is Gazette notification guide ensures you are well-prepared.