There are many reasons why a person may want to change their name.
Some people do it after marriage. Some are because of spelling mistakes in documents. Others because they want a new name.
Whatever your reason, in India, you can legally change your name if you follow the right process.
This guide explains the process in simple steps on how to change your name in India by yourself.
Step 1: Collect Required Documents
Before starting, make sure you have:
- Your current ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, etc.)
- Birth certificate or school leaving certificate (to prove date of birth)
- Address proof (electricity bill, Aadhaar, rental agreement)
- Two passport-size photos
- An affidavit for name change (we’ll cover this next)
Keep photocopies of everything. The originals will be needed for verification.
Step 2: Prepare the Name Change Affidavit
An affidavit is a written statement you sign, saying you want to change your name.
You can get this made at a local notary or court.
The affidavit should mention:
- Your old name
- Your new name
- Reason for changing your name
- Your details (father’s name, date of birth, address)
Sign it in front of a notary or first-class magistrate.
Step 3: Publish in a Newspaper
Once the affidavit is ready, you must publish your name change in two newspapers:
- One in English (for example, Times of India, Hindustan Times)
- One in the local language of your state (for example, Dainik Jagran, The Hindu, regional edition)
The notice should mention:
- Old name and new name
- Date of name change affidavit
- Full address
Keep the newspaper copies as proof.
Step 4: Gazette Notification
The Gazette is the official government record.
For most legal purposes, the name change is valid only after it appears in the Gazette.
How to apply:
- Visit the Department of Publication website or their office in Delhi.
- Fill out the name change form.
- Attach:
- Affidavit copy
- Newspaper ads
- ID proof
- Photos
- Pay the fee (usually ₹1,000–₹1,500 for ordinary cases).
They will publish your new name in the Gazette within a few weeks.
Step 5: Update Your Documents
Once you have the Gazette copy, you can change your name on:
- Aadhaar card
- PAN card
- Passport
- Bank accounts
- Driving licence
- Educational certificates
Contact each department separately and give them a copy of the Gazette.
Fees for Name Change in India
- Affidavit: ₹50–₹200 (depends on state and notary)
- Newspaper ads: ₹500–₹2,000 (depends on newspaper)
- Gazette: ₹1,000–₹1,500 (ordinary cases)
Time Taken
- Affidavit: 1 day
- Newspaper ads: 1–2 days
- Gazette publication: 30–45 days
Changing your name in India is not complicated, but it must be done correctly.
If you follow the steps, affidavit, newspapers, and Gazette, your new name will be valid everywhere.
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Disclaimer:
This article is published for general legal awareness and informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice or a solicitation to act.
About the Author:
Joginder Poswal is an advocate enrolled with the Bar and practicing law, specializing in cyber law, criminal law, and corporate compliance.
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