A Guide to Gazette Notification for Name Change in India
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Your name is more than just a word; it is your legal identity. Whether you are starting a new chapter after marriage, correcting a typo from years ago, or choosing a name that reflects your true self, your documents must be 100% accurate.
In India, a Gazette Notification for Name Change  is the “Gold Standard” of proof. Without it, updating major documents like your Passport, Aadhaar, or Bank Accounts can be a nightmare. This guide is your one-stop solution to navigating the name change process in 2026—smoothly and legallyÂ
What is a Gazette Notification for Name Change?
A Gazette is an official government journal that publishes public notices and legal announcements. When your Gazette name change is published here, it becomes an irrefutable legal record.
Why Choose Central Gazette Over State Gazette?
While both exist, the Central Gazette is globally recognized. If you plan to travel abroad or deal with Central Government departments, Central Gazette is the best option for you.
| Feature | Central Gazette | State Gazette |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance | Valid PAN-India & Globally | Valid only within the State |
| Passport/Visa | Mandatory for major changes | Often not accepted |
| Aadhaar/PAN | Highly Preferred | May face rejection |
| Processing Time | 30–45 Days | 60–70 Days |
Who Can Apply?
- Adults (18+): Any Indian citizen with valid ID proof.
- Minors: Parents or legal guardians must apply on behalf of the child.
- Government Employees: Required for updating service records.
The 3-Step Legal Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
The road to a new name follows a specific legal sequence. Skipping a step can lead to your application being rejected.
Step 1: Prepare the Name Change Affidavit
This is a sworn statement drafted on non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹10 or ₹20). It must be notarized by a Notary Public or Magistrate.
- Details to Include: Old name, New name, Full Address, and the Reason for change.
- Expert Tip: Get 5–10 photocopies. You’ll need them for banks and other local updates even before the Gazette is out.
Step 2: Publish a Newspaper Advertisement
You must notify the public of your intent. While many think two ads are needed, for the Central Gazette, one local newspaper advertisement is sufficient, but it must be in English.
- Mandatory Info: “I, [Old Name], residing at [Address], have changed my name to [New Name] vide affidavit dated [Date] before [Notary Name].”
- Expert Tip: Keep at least 3 original copies of the full newspaper page, not just the cutting.
Step 3: Submission to the Gazette Office
Fill out the official “Deed Proforma” and prepare your “Gazette File.” You can submit this by post to the Department of Publication (Civil Lines, Delhi) or visit in person.
Your Submission Checklist:
- Signed Application Form (Proforma).
- Original Notarized Affidavit.
- Original Newspaper (Full Page).
- The CD: A digital copy of your application in MS Word format.
- Bharat Kosh Receipt: Proof of government fee payment.
- Two passport-sized photos (Self-attested).
Government Fees & Payment (via Bharatkosh)
Fees vary based on the category. In 2026, the standard fees are
| Category | Gov. Fee (Approx.) | Expected Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (General) | ₹1,100 | 30–40 Days |
| Minor Name Change | ₹1,700 | 45 Days |
| Public Notice/Correction | ₹1,400 | 30–40 Days |
How to Pay Online?
- Visit bharatkosh.gov.in.
- Select the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
- Choose PAO Printing, New Delhi as the payment office.
- Enter the fee amount and mention “Name Change” in the remarks.
- Important: Download the receipt immediately; you cannot retrieve it easily later.
How to Download Your Gazette Notification?
The Government of India no longer prints physical Gazettes. Everything is now digital.
- Go to egazette.gov.in.
- Click “Search Gazette” -> “Weekly Gazette.”
- Select “Part IV” (where private name changes are published).
- Choose the date (usually Saturdays) and search for your old/new name in the PDF.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
- Spelling Mismatch: Even a one-letter difference between your ID and the application will cause rejection.
- Outdated Ads: Your newspaper ad must be less than 6 months old.
- CD Errors: The MS Word file on the CD must strictly follow the government template.
- Whitener/Cutting: Never use whitener on the official forms.
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People Also Asked
Yes. Since 2015, digital PDFs downloaded from the official site are legally valid everywhere, including for passports and VISA.
For just a surname change, a Marriage Certificate is often enough. However, for a full name change or if the certificate is unavailable, a Gazette is mandatory.
Visit a permanent Aadhaar Center with your Gazette PDF and the original affidavit. They will scan the documents and update your name within 7–15 days.
No, absolutely not! You can send your application via Speed ​​Post to "Department of Publication (Civil Lines, Delhi)" from anywhere in the country. In 2026, most people are doing this online through professional service providers.
Absolutely! The Government of India has now stopped printing physical copies. The digital PDF downloaded from the e-Gazette portal is the only legal proof and is 100% valid at the passport office, banks, and schools.
No, government fees paid through Bharat Kosh are non-refundable. Therefore, it is very important to double-check spelling, CD format, and documents before submitting the application.
There is no need to change old degrees. Wherever you display your old degree, attach a copy of the Gazette Notification; both will certify your new identity.
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Need Professional Help?
Filing a Gazette application involves complex legal formatting. One small mistake can waste your time and fees.
Advocate Advice provides a 100% online, hassle-free service. We handle everything—from drafting the affidavit to managing the newspaper ad and filing your Gazette application.
