To legally change your name in India, prepare a notarised affidavit, publish a notice in at least one newspaper (preferably two: English + local language), and get it notified in the Gazette of India (or State Gazette where required). This official record allows updates to identity documents.
The process suits Indian citizens 18+ without pending criminal cases. Timeline: 6–12 weeks typically. This is informational; verify with authorities for your case.
Applies nationwide under Department of Publication guidelines (Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs). Central Gazette (egazette.nic.in) is standard for most.
When Name Change process is applicable?
For Indian citizens aged 18+, changing name due to marriage, divorce, religious conversion, personal preference, numerology/astrology or other genuine reasons.
In the case of a minor, the father is generally required to be the applicant for the name change process. However, the mother may apply if she is legally divorced and has custody of the child (supported by a valid custody order), or if the father has passed away, in which case the death certificate must be submitted.
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When Name Change Process is not applicable
Non-citizens, or those with pending criminal/legal cases (cannot evade obligations). Specific rules apply for government employees (may need departmental NOC) or NRIs/PIOs abroad (higher fees/different submission).
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Step-by-Step Legal Process to ChangeYour Name in India
- Prepare Affidavit: Draft on stamp paper stating old name, new name, address, father’s/husband’s name, reason. Include two witnesses; get notarised by notary public.
Note: In cases of a complete name change or complete surname change, an SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) affidavit may be required instead of a standard notarised affidavit. - Newspaper Publication: Publish a name change notice in at least one daily newspaper. The advertisement should mention the old name, new name, full address, and the date of the affidavit. Original newspaper clippings must be preserved for official and future reference.
Two newspaper advertisements are required for individuals who hold a passport or are planning to apply for a passport. The newspaper does not need to be in the local language; it can be a local or national newspaper, and the content may be published in English. - Gazette Notification: Apply to the Department of Publication (Delhi) via post/in-person: Submit proforma form, affidavit, clippings, ID proofs, photos, BharatKosh receipt, soft copy (CD/digital). Pay fee online via BharatKosh (Ministry: Housing & Urban Affairs; Purpose: Sale of Gazette). Publication in Part III, Section 4. Search/download from egazette.nic.in (select date range post-submission). No fully online process, core submission offline. Official Gazette of India (e-Gazette portal)
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Why It’s Important to Follow the Legal Process?
Even though skipping these steps might seem easier, it’s not a good idea. By following the proper process, your new name will be officially recognized which is very important when you need to update your passport, buy a house or get married.
It might take some time but doing it the right way will help you avoid problems later. We will explain each step more clearly in the next sections to help make the process easier for you.
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Documents Required for Name Change in India
- Notarised affidavit or SDM Affidavit (as the case may be).
- 2 passport-sized photos.
- ID proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID/Passport/PAN – original + copy).
- Address proof (if needed).
- Original newspaper clippings.
- BharatKosh payment receipt.
- Prescribed proforma (from deptpub.gov.in).
- Soft copy on CD/digital.
- Reason-specific: marriage certificate, divorce decree, conversion proof.
People Also Read: Affidavit for One and the Same Person
Name Change Cost in India
Approximate ranges (vary by state/newspapers):
- Affidavit/notary: ₹100–₹500.
- Newspaper Publication: ₹500–₹3,000.
- Gazette govt fee: Adult/major: ₹1,100; Minor: ₹1,700; Religion change: ₹1,100 – ₹ 5,000; Abroad adult: ₹3,500; Abroad minor: ₹5,100. Check latest fees and Office Order here.
- Total DIY: ₹2,000–₹7,000 (excluding updates).
Timeline: Affidavit (1–3 days), newspaper (3–7 days), Gazette (30–90 days, often 4–8 weeks). Delays from incomplete docs/verification. Document updates: extra 1–4 weeks each.
Professional Fee Structure for Name Change
- Name Change Fee (General Public): ₹ 1,500 + ₹ 450 for each Alias
- Name Change Fee (Minor Child): ₹ 2,100 + ₹ 450 for each Alias
- Name Change Fee (Govt. Employee): ₹ 1,750 + ₹ 450 for each Alias
- Name Change + Religion Change: ₹ 3,200 + ₹ 450 for each Alias
- Person Living Abroad: ₹ 11,500/-
Note: All government fees/rates mentioned above are as per the latest Gazette Order of the Government of India, Department of Publication, Office Order No. 761/O&M/2014-16 dated 19 September 2023.
How to Pay Gazette Name-Change Fees Online on BharatKosh
Follow these exact steps to pay the government fee online (₹1,100 for adults, ₹1,700 for minors/religion change, etc.):
- Go to → https://bharatkosh.gov.in
- Click “Quick Payment” (or “Non-Registered User” if the option shows).
- Fill the four sections one by one:(i) Payment Purpose
- Ministry → Housing and Urban Affairs
- Purpose → Click the search (🔍) icon → Scroll to Page 4 → Choose “Sale Of Gazette (PAO Printing, New Delhi)”
- Function Head → 005800102000000 – SALE OF GAZETTES
- Pay & Accounts Office (PAO) → 042709 – Pay and Accounts Office (Ptg.)
- Drawing & Disbursing Office (DDO) → 242722 – Controller of Publications
- Amount → Enter exact fee (e.g., 1100 or 1700)
- Remarks → “Fee for publication in the Gazette of India – Name Change” → Click NEXT
- After successful payment → Download & Print the Receipt (very important!)
Attach this printed BharatKosh receipt with your physical application (affidavit, newspaper clippings, form, etc.) and send it by speed post to: Department of Publication, Civil Lines, Delhi – 110054
This receipt is mandatory proof of payment, without it, your application will be rejected.
Sample Gazette Notification: What Yours Will Actually Look Like
How to Search and Download Your Published e-Gazette (Free & Official)
- Open website egazette.nic.in
- Click Search Gazette
- Select Ministry/Department → Department of Publication
- Select Category → Gazette Notification
- Select Part & Section → Part III, Section 4(Part III, Section 4 is for Name Change Gazette notifications)
- Fill the date range (from your payment date to 90 days after payment date)
- Fill Captcha → Click Search
Your PDF will show in the results. Open and check your name (use Ctrl+F).
Take a printout of three pages (first page, index page where your name appears, and your full notification page).
This is the official e-Gazette copy you will use to update Aadhaar, Passport, PAN, bank accounts, etc.
E-Gazette and Certification
Since 2015, Gazette notifications have been published electronically on egazette.gov.in, and no hard copies have been issued. The e-Gazette is legally valid for almost all purposes, including passports, Aadhaar, banks, etc. No separate certification needed since 2015.
Note: There is still no fully online name change process. The application to the Department of Publication must be sent by post or submitted in person in Delhi. Many websites claiming “100% online” are misleading.
Common Mistakes and Delays
We see applicants skip notarisation, use unsuitable newspapers (affecting acceptance), submit without payment receipt/clippings, or ignore state variations, leading to rejections/returns. We advise: double-check forms, retain all copies, use recommended newspapers, confirm jurisdiction early.
Special Cases
- Minors: Guardian affidavit, birth certificate, photos; higher fee (₹1,700); court order if parental dispute. Only one newspaper publication is mandatory, but two are recommended.
- After Marriage/Divorce: Support with certificate/decree; no NOC from ex-spouse needed for reversion.
- Religious Conversion: Attach proof if available; fee ₹1,100 – ₹ 5,000.
- NRIs/Abroad: Higher fees (₹3,500 adult, ₹5,100 minor); possible different submission.
Government Employees: May require departmental NOC; fee ₹1,750 + aliases.
Court Judgments on Name Change in India
Court Judgment 1: Name Change (or Retention) After Marriage. Mrs. Vijaya Manohar Arbat v. Kashinath G. Jalgaonkar (Supreme Court of India, 1987). A married woman wished to continue using her maiden surname professionally.
The Supreme Court held that there is no legal compulsion for a woman to adopt her husband’s surname after marriage. The right to retain or change one’s name flows from Articles 19(1)(a) and 21 of the Constitution.
Practical takeaway: If you want to change your surname after marriage, follow the standard affidavit → newspaper → Gazette process. If you want to keep your maiden name, no Gazette is required; just use it consistently.
Court Judgment 2: Reverting to Maiden Name After Divorce.
Smt. X v. Y (Mumbai Metropolitan Magistrate Court, 2021 – DV Act maintenance case) After divorce, the wife legally reverted to her maiden surname through affidavit and Gazette notification.
The court explicitly ruled that changing or not changing the surname has no impact on marital status or legal rights, and no permission/NOC from the ex-husband is needed.
Practical takeaway: Your divorce decree + Gazette notification is sufficient to update all documents (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, bank accounts, etc.).
Court Judgment 3: Name Change on Religious Conversion.
Perumal Nadar (dead) by LRs v. Ponnuswami (Supreme Court of India, 1971) A person converted from Christianity to Hinduism and adopted a Hindu name.
The Supreme Court held that a bona fide intention to convert is enough; no particular ceremony or ritual is mandatory. The name change was recognised once formally recorded through proper legal process (affidavit + Gazette in modern practice).
Practical takeaway: Attach proof of conversion (certificate from religious body, if available) with your name-change affidavit for smoother acceptance by passport offices and other authorities.
Legal Assistance
Sometimes, hiring a lawyer might pay off, particularly where the case involves minors or where one is entangled in legal issues. Legal practitioners provide personalized recommendations, guarantee the correct provision of documents and stand for you in case of any disputes or legal complications.
What to Do Post Name Change?
Use Gazette copy to update:
- Aadhaar (enrollment center/online, biometrics may apply).
- Passport (re-issue via Passport Seva).
- PAN (correction form).
- Voter ID (Form 8).
- Driving License (RTO).
- Bank accounts, educational certificates, etc. Delays occur if not updated consistently.
Name Change Office Address of Central Government
The government gazette office or Central Gazette office is located in North Delhi and the Official Address is:
Government of India
Department of Publication,
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Civil Lines, Delhi-110054.
Telephone No.: 011-23817823, 23819689
Toll Free No.: 1800-11-3765
Fax No: 011-23817846
Email: acop-dep@nic.in | pub.dep@nic.in
This office handles the official Gazette, where all name change notifications are published. The process involves submitting your application, required documents, and fees to this office for review and publication.
Legal Disclaimer
This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Procedures/fees vary by state/time; consult official sources (deptpub.gov.in, egazette.nic.in), authorities, or qualified lawyer for your situation. ezyLegal not liable for reliance on this.
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Other Name Change Services ezyLegal Offer
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Conclusion
In exploring the complete procedure of legal name change, covering someone’s reasons for changing names to legal framework governing name changes, we have also given essential pre-requisites, documents required and a step-by-step guide on how to change your name.
Changing your name is not an easy task but then following the legal process guarantees all aspects of your new identity will be accepted. Thus, make sure you are fully equipped with all relevant information when you take this step.
As you embark on this journey of self-transformation into another person or set off to open a new chapter in life, wish you all the best.
ezyLegal‘s Name Change Services in Other Cities of India
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Frequently Asked Questions About Name Changing in India
Q1: Is the name change process the same for minors?
Ans1: No, the name change process for minors is different. It requires parental or guardian consent, with the affidavit signed by the guardian. Additional documents needed include the minor’s birth certificate or school ID, a guardian’s undertaking, two self-attested photos of the minor and guardian, and a fee of ₹1,700. Only one newspaper publication is mandatory, though two are recommended for wider acceptance. In cases of dispute between parents or if one parent objects, a civil court order becomes mandatory.
Q2: How long does the process take?
Ans2: The name change process typically takes 6–10 weeks. This includes 1–2 days for affidavit preparation, 3–7 days for newspaper publication, and 30–60 days (or more) for Gazette notification, depending on processing times. Updating various legal documents can add extra time. Delays may occur due to incomplete applications or verification issues, so it’s advisable to start the process early.
Q3: What is the cost involved?
Ans3: The total cost varies by state and the newspapers chosen for publication, generally ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹7,000 for the entire process (excluding fees for updating legal documents like Aadhaar, passport, etc.). Government fees are ₹1,100 for adults and ₹1,700 for minors or religion-related changes. With professional assistance, costs can go higher, up to ₹5,000–₹12,000 in some cases.
Q4: Do I need a witness for the affidavit?
Ans4: Yes, at least one witness is required when getting the affidavit notarized, though typically two witnesses are included in the standard affidavit format. The witness should know you personally and be willing to vouch for your identity.
Q5: How do I change my name legally in India?
Ans5: To change your name legally in India, prepare a notarized affidavit stating the old and new name along with the reason, publish a notice in at least two newspapers (one local and one national), and apply for a Gazette Notification from the Department of Publication. This three-step process makes the change officially recognized.
Q6: What is the procedure to change my name?
Ans6: The standard procedure involves: (1) preparing and notarizing an affidavit on stamp paper with details of the old name, new name, address, and reason; (2) publishing the name change notice in at least two newspapers; and (3) submitting an application (with the affidavit and newspaper clippings) for publication in the Gazette of India.
Q7: Can I change my name for personal reasons?
Ans7: Yes, you can change your name for personal reasons such as preference, numerology, astrology, or any other valid personal motive, as long as you follow the legal process of affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification.
Q8: How to change surname after marriage in India?
Ans8: The process is similar to a general name change: prepare a notarized affidavit mentioning the change of surname after marriage, publish a notice in two newspapers, and obtain a Gazette Notification. Many women also simply use their husband’s surname informally without formal change, but for official records, the full legal process is recommended.
Q9: How long does it take to change your name legally in India?
Ans9: The core legal process (affidavit, publication, and Gazette Notification) usually takes 6–10 weeks. Gazette processing can take 30–60 days or longer. Additional time is needed to update documents like Aadhaar, passport, etc.
Q10: What are the costs involved in a name change in India?
Ans10: Costs typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹7,000, covering stamp paper, notary fees, newspaper publication charges, and government Gazette fees (around ₹1,100 for adults). Costs vary by location and newspapers selected. Updating identity documents incurs separate charges.
Q11: How do I change my name in legal documents after a name change?
Ans11: Once you receive the Gazette Notification, use it (along with the affidavit and newspaper clippings) as proof to update your Aadhaar card, passport, Voter ID, PAN card, driving license, bank accounts, educational certificates, and other documents with the respective authorities.
Q12: Can I change my name if I have pending legal issues?
Ans12: Generally, no. You should have no pending criminal cases, legal issues, or court cases against you, as authorities may reject the application or require clearance in such situations.
Q13: How can I change my name for religious reasons?
Ans13: The process is similar, but you must include proof of religious conversion (such as a conversion certificate or relevant document) along with the affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification.
Q14: Can I change my surname in India?
Ans14: Yes, you can legally change your surname in India by following the standard procedure: preparing an affidavit, publishing in newspapers, and obtaining Gazette Notification.
Q15: How to change surname in India?
Ans15: Draft a notarized affidavit declaring the change of surname, publish the notice in at least two newspapers, and apply for publication in the Gazette of India.
Q16: Can I change my surname?
Ans16: Yes, changing your surname is permitted in India through the legal process of affidavit, newspaper advertisement, and Gazette Notification.
Q17: How to change name legally in India online?
Ans17: There is no fully online process for legal name change in India. Some preliminary steps like purchasing e-stamp paper or booking newspaper ads can be done online, but the Gazette application must be submitted physically or by post to the Department of Publication.
Q18: How to change name officially in India?
Ans18: Officially change your name by preparing a notarized affidavit, publishing the change in two newspapers, and getting it notified in the Gazette of India.
Q19: Procedure for name change in India?
Ans19: The procedure includes: drafting and notarizing an affidavit, publishing a public notice in newspapers, and applying for a notification in the official Gazette.
Q20: How to legally change your name in India?
Ans20: Prepare an affidavit on stamp paper, get it notarized, publish the name change in at least two newspapers, and apply for Gazette Notification to make it legally valid.
Q21: Can we change our name?
Ans21: Yes, any individual in India can legally change their name by following the standard process of affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification.
Q22: Can we change our surname in India?
Ans22: Yes, changing a surname is allowed through the legal procedure involving affidavit, newspaper ads, and Gazette publication.
Q23: What is the process of name change?
Ans23: The process requires drafting a notarized affidavit, publishing an announcement in newspapers, and getting the change published in the Gazette of India, along with necessary ID verification and paperwork.
Q24: How can I change my real name?
Ans24: In most cases, no court petition is needed. Follow the affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification process unless there are special circumstances like disputes.
Q25: How can I change my name for free?
Ans25: There is no completely free option. You must pay for stamp paper, notary fees, newspaper publications, and Gazette fees. Updating documents also involves additional charges.
Q26: How to get an affidavit for name change?
Ans26: Draft an affidavit including your old name, new name, address, and reason for change. Print it on appropriate stamp paper, have it signed by two witnesses, and get it notarized by a notary public.
Q27: Is changing name difficult in India?
Ans27: It is not overly difficult but requires careful adherence to legal steps, proper documentation, and patience due to processing times. Proper planning and complete paperwork make it manageable.
Q28: What all documents are required for a name change?
Ans28: Required documents typically include: notarized affidavit, two passport-sized photographs, copies of valid ID proofs (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, etc.), signatures of two witnesses, and for Gazette application, a CD/digital copy of the completed form, newspaper clippings, and prescribed fee.
Q29: Can I change my full name legally in India?
Ans29: Yes, you can change your full name at any time by following the official process: affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification.
Q30: How long will it take to change my real name in India?
Ans30: The process generally takes 6–10 weeks for the legal formalities (affidavit, publication, Gazette). Gazette processing can vary from 30–60 days or more, and updating documents adds further time.
Q31: What are the rules for name change?
Ans31: The key rules/steps are: (1) prepare and submit a notarized affidavit; (2) publish the change in newspapers; (3) apply for and obtain publication in the Gazette of India.
Q32: What is the criteria for change name?
Ans32: There are no strict criteria beyond following the legal process. You need valid ID proof of your current name and, in some cases (like divorce), relevant supporting documents such as a divorce decree.
Q33: What is the difference between name change and name correction?
Ans33: Name change involves adopting an entirely different name or surname. Name correction involves minor spelling fixes or additions (usually 2–3 letters) while keeping the pronunciation and core name the same.
Q34: What is the minimum age to change name in India?
Ans34: The minimum age for independent name change is 18 years. Minors can change their name only with guardian consent and additional requirements.
Q35: Is changing name a fundamental right?
Ans35: Yes, under Articles 19(1)(a) and 21 of the Constitution of India, every citizen has the right to change their name, though it is subject to reasonable legal procedures and restrictions.
Q36: How much does it cost to change name in India?
Ans36: DIY costs typically range from ₹2,000–₹4,500. With professional or agent assistance, it can be ₹5,000–₹12,000, depending on the provider and location.
Q37: Can I change my name twice in India?
Ans37: Yes, there is no legal restriction on the number of times you can change your name, as long as you follow the proper procedure each time.
Q38: How do you prove name change in India?
Ans38: Proof includes the Gazette Notification and newspaper clippings of the publication. For further verifications, at least two public or school documents issued in the new name are often required.
Q39: How can I change my name and gender legally in India?
Ans39: Prepare an affidavit for both name and gender marker change (notarized by a Judicial Magistrate/Oath Commissioner), publish in at least two newspapers, and notify the change in the Gazette (state or central).
Q40: How to change name in TC?
Ans40: Obtain a notarized affidavit for the name change, publish in two newspapers, then submit these along with the original Transfer Certificate (TC) to the issuing school or authority for amendment.
Q41: Can I change my name in MBBS?
Ans41: Yes, you can change your name on MBBS degree/certificate through the legal process (affidavit, publication, Gazette), then apply to the university or medical council with the Gazette proof.
Q42: Can I use my old name after a name change?
Ans42: After the Gazette Notification, the old name is legally superseded. Continuing to use it officially can be considered misrepresentation or fraud.
Q43: Can I use both surnames after marriage?
Ans43: Yes, there is no law mandating a surname change after marriage. A woman can retain her maiden name, adopt her husband’s surname, or use both (e.g., hyphenated) as per her choice.
Q44: Can I change my name in all documents?
Ans44: Yes, but you must update each document individually after receiving the Gazette Notification by submitting the required proof to the respective issuing authorities.
Q45: How can I change my name in all certificates in India?
Ans45: After Gazette Notification, apply to each issuing authority (school/university, boards, etc.) with the affidavit, newspaper clippings, Gazette copy, and original certificate for amendment.
Q46: Can we change our name after the degree?
Ans46: Yes, you can change your name post-graduation/degree. Submit the Gazette Notification, affidavit, and newspaper clippings to the university or relevant authority for updating records and issuing corrected certificates.
Q47: How do I add a surname in all documents?
Ans47: Prepare an affidavit for adding/changing the surname, publish in two newspapers, get Gazette Notification, then apply to each authority (with proof) to update documents like educational certificates, Aadhaar, etc.
Q48: Can I change my name spelling in all documents?
Ans48: Yes, for minor spelling changes, prepare an affidavit, publish in newspapers, obtain Gazette Notification, and then submit applications to update spelling in all relevant documents and certificates.
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