People may wish to change their names for several personal, professional, or cultural reasons. Since a name is a key part of one’s identity and appears on important documents such as mark sheets, voter IDs, and driving licenses, the process must be carried out legally. Below is a complete guide on how to apply for a name change online in India.
Eligibility for Name Change Application
You can apply for a name change in India if the following conditions are met:
- The applicant is 18 years or older.
- For minors, parents or legal guardians can request the name change.
- The applicant holds a valid government-issued ID.
- There is a genuine reason for changing the name.
Step-by-Step Name Change Procedure in India
1. Affidavit for Name Change
The first step is preparing a name change affidavit.
- Obtain an e-stamp paper of ₹10, ₹20, or the minimum value set by your state. You can get it online through the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL) website by paying the applicable fee.
- Print the affidavit on the e-stamp paper. This document must clearly state:
- Current and proposed new name.
- Father’s or husband’s name (for married women).
- Residential address.
- A declaration that the details are true and correct.
- Signature of the applicant (deponent).
- Current and proposed new name.
- The affidavit should be attested by a Notary Public, Judicial Magistrate, or Oaths Commissioner.
- If living abroad, get it attested by the Indian High Commission or Indian Embassy.
- Government employees must follow the Ministry of Home Affairs’ specific rules and submit a name change deed.
2. Advertisement of Name Change
After completing the name change affidavit:
- Publish a name change notice in at least one local or national newspaper.
- The advertisement should include the old name, new name, address, attesting authority’s details, and the affidavit date and place.
- Keep copies of the published notice for future use.
3. Gazette Notification
The final step is publishing the name change in the Gazette of India.
- Submit the required documents, request letter, and applicable printing fees to:
Controller of Publications, Department of Publication, Civil Lines, Delhi–110054. - You can submit the documents in person, via courier, or by post.
- Once verified, your request will be forwarded for notification in the Government of India Press.
- Publication usually takes 1–2 months. You will receive:
- An electronic copy in the Digital Directory of The Gazette of India.
- A printed copy by post from the authorities.
- An electronic copy in the Digital Directory of The Gazette of India.
- The Gazette fee ranges from ₹700 to ₹900, depending on whether you request a public notice. Payments can be made by cash or demand draft.
This process ensures that your name change is legally recognized across all government and official records in India.
Documents Required for Name Change
To legally change your name in India, you must provide the following documents:
- Name change affidavit duly signed by the deponent and attested by the respective authority
- Original newspaper containing the name change advertisement
- Prescribed proforma signed by the applicant and two witnesses
- Two passport size photographs
- Copies of valid ID proof – PAN card, passport, or Aadhaar card
- CD containing a soft copy of the filled application in .docx format
- Letter of declaration stating the application content is true
- Request letter with registration fee to the authority
Reasons for Name Change
Common reasons people choose to change their names include:
- After marriage or divorce (especially for women)
- Adoption of a child
- Change of religion
- Numerology or astrology reasons
- Changing surname
- Dislike of current name
- Gender transition
- Identity change
Benefits of Changing Name Legally
Changing your name legally ensures authenticity, avoids disputes, and protects against misuse. Your name is linked to essential identity documents like Aadhaar, PAN, bank accounts, birth certificates, and educational certificates. A legal name change helps:
- Update all official records
- Prevent fraudulent activities such as identity theft or fake signatures
- Maintain transparency and accountability through Gazette notification
Restrictions on Name Change
You cannot change your name to:
- Names of famous personalities (unless proven not misleading)
- Obscene or offensive names
- Complicated names with unusual punctuation
Legal Procedure for Name Change in India
- Create an affidavit for the name change and get it attested
- Publish an advertisement in at least one local and one national newspaper
- Notify the change in the Gazette of India
- Update your name on all official ID proof documents
Related FAQs on Name Change
Q1: How long does the name change process take in India?
A: It usually takes 1–2 months, depending on the Gazette publication and document verification.
Q2: Can I change my name more than once?
A: Yes, you can legally change your name multiple times, but each change must follow the legal procedure.
Q3: Do I need a lawyer for a name change?
A: While not mandatory, a lawyer can help ensure all documents are in order and the process is smooth.
Q4: Is Gazette notification mandatory for a name change?
A: Yes, Gazette publication is a crucial step for the legal recognition of your new name.
Q5: Can minors change their name?
A: Yes, but the application must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian.
