Name Change Services through Gazette in Delhi | Legal Procedure & Documentation

Quick Overview

  • Legal name change requires Gazette notification
  • Process takes 2-4 weeks typically
  • Required for official document updates
  • Applicable for all types of name changes

Types of Name Change Services We Offer

Service TypeCommon ReasonsDocuments RequiredTimeline
Full Name ChangePersonal preference, NumerologyID Proof, Address Proof, Affidavit2-3 weeks
Surname Change (Marriage)After marriage/divorceMarriage Certificate, ID Proof2-3 weeks
Minor’s Name ChangeAdoption, Parent’s preferenceBirth Certificate, Parent’s ID3-4 weeks
Spelling CorrectionDocument discrepanciesAll affected documents2 weeks
Religious ConversionChange of faithConversion Certificate3-4 weeks
Gender ChangeTransgender recognitionMedical Certificate, Affidavit3-4 weeks

Checklist for Name Change

  • Valid ID Proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport)
  • Address Proof (Utility Bill, Rent Agreement)
  • Passport Size Photographs
  • Affidavit on Stamp Paper
  • Newspaper Publication
  • Gazette Notification Application

Understanding the Name Change Process

What is Gazette Notification?

The Gazette of India is the official journal published by the Government of India. A Gazette notification for name change serves as legal proof that you have officially changed your name. This notification is essential for updating all your official documents including:

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Passport
  • Driving License
  • Bank Accounts
  • Educational Certificates
  • Property Documents

Name change in India is governed by various laws and procedures:

  1. The Registration Act, 1908 - Governs registration of documents
  2. The Indian Evidence Act, 1872 - Provides for admissibility of Gazette notification
  3. State-specific Rules - Delhi has specific procedures under Delhi Administration

Step-by-Step Name Change Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Affidavit

The first step involves preparing a sworn affidavit on stamp paper (typically Rs. 10 or Rs. 20 non-judicial stamp paper):

Affidavit Contents:

  • Current name and proposed new name
  • Reason for name change
  • Declaration that the change is for lawful purposes
  • Statement that no fraud is intended
  • Details of documents to be updated

Step 2: Newspaper Publication

After the affidavit is prepared, the name change must be published in:

  • One National Newspaper (English)
  • One Local/Regional Newspaper (Hindi or local language)

The publication serves as public notice and allows for any objections to be raised.

Step 3: Gazette Notification

Once newspaper publication is complete, apply for Gazette notification:

Gazette TypeIssued ByCoverageProcessing Time
Central GazetteGovernment of IndiaAll India validity2-3 weeks
State GazetteDelhi GovernmentDelhi validity1-2 weeks

Step 4: Document Updates

After receiving the Gazette notification, update all your documents in the recommended order:

PriorityDocumentWhere to UpdateTimeline
1️⃣Aadhaar CardNearest Aadhaar Center7-15 days
2️⃣PAN CardNSDL/UTIITSL Online Portal15-20 days
3️⃣Bank AccountsHome Branch3-5 days
4️⃣PassportPassport Seva Kendra15-30 days
5️⃣Driving LicenseRTO Office7-15 days
6️⃣Voter IDNVSP Portal15-30 days
7️⃣Other DocumentsRespective AuthoritiesVaries

Pro Tip: Always update Aadhaar first as it serves as primary proof for updating other documents


Types of Name Changes Explained

1. Full Name Change

This involves changing your entire name (first name, middle name, and surname). Common reasons include:

  • Personal preference or identity
  • Numerological considerations
  • Professional reasons
  • Disassociation from family

Required Documents:

  • Original Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Passport (if any)
  • Birth Certificate
  • Educational Certificates

2. Surname Change After Marriage

Women often change their surname after marriage. This is a straightforward process:

Required Documents:

  • Marriage Certificate
  • Husband’s ID Proof
  • Joint Photograph
  • Wedding Invitation (optional)

Important Note Surname change after marriage is optional in India. Women can retain their maiden name if they prefer.

3. Surname Change After Divorce

Post-divorce, individuals may wish to revert to their maiden name:

Required Documents:

  • Divorce Decree
  • Previous Marriage Certificate
  • Original ID Proofs

4. Minor’s Name Change

Changing a minor’s name requires additional considerations:

Requirements:

  • Consent of both parents (or legal guardian)
  • Birth Certificate
  • School Records
  • Parents’ ID Proofs

Special Cases:

  • Adoption: Adoption deed required
  • Single Parent: Court order may be needed
  • Deceased Parent: Death certificate required

5. Spelling Correction

If there are spelling discrepancies in your documents:

Process:

  • Simpler than full name change
  • Affidavit stating correct spelling
  • Supporting documents showing correct spelling
  • Gazette notification

6. Name Change for Transgender Individuals

Following the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019:

Requirements:

  • Application to District Magistrate
  • Medical Certificate (for gender reassignment surgery cases)
  • Affidavit
  • Gazette notification

Timeline and Fees

Processing Timeline

StageDurationStatus
Affidavit Preparation1-2 days✓ Quick
Newspaper Publication3-5 days✓ Quick
Gazette Application1-2 days✓ Quick
Gazette Processing7-14 days⏳ Government Processing
Total Duration2-4 weeks-

Fee Structure

ServiceGovernment FeeOur Service Fee
Affidavit DraftingRs. 50Included
Newspaper PublicationRs. 500-3000Included
Gazette NotificationRs. 1000-2500Included
Complete Package-Contact for quote

Document Updation After Gazette

Once you receive the Gazette notification, update your documents in this recommended order:

Priority 1: Identity Documents

  1. Aadhaar Card

    • Visit nearest Aadhaar center
    • Documents: Gazette, Old Aadhaar, Address proof
  2. PAN Card

    • Apply online at NSDL/UTIITSL
    • Documents: Gazette, Old PAN, Address proof

Priority 2: Financial Documents

  1. Bank Accounts

    • Visit home branch
    • Documents: Gazette, KYC documents
  2. Insurance Policies

    • Contact insurance company
    • Documents: Gazette, Policy documents

Priority 3: Government Documents

  1. Passport

    • Apply through Passport Seva
    • Documents: Gazette, All supporting documents
  2. Driving License

    • Visit RTO
    • Documents: Gazette, Old DL, Address proof
  3. Voter ID

    • Apply through NVSP portal
    • Documents: Gazette, Address proof

Priority 4: Educational Documents

  1. Educational Certificates
    • Contact respective boards/universities
    • Documents: Gazette, Original certificates

Common Mistakes to Avoid

MistakeConsequencePrevention
Incorrect spelling in affidavitEntire process restartDouble-check before notarization
Missing newspaper publicationGazette rejectionEnsure both publications complete
Wrong newspaper selectionInvalid publicationUse approved newspapers
Incomplete documentsApplication rejectionVerify checklist before submission
Delay in document updatesLegal complicationsUpdate within 6 months

Our Expertise

  • 15+ Years Experience in name change procedures
  • 1000+ Successful Cases handled
  • Complete Documentation support
  • End-to-End Service from affidavit to Gazette

Our Process

StepStageWhat We DoDuration
1️⃣ConsultationFree case assessment & guidanceDay 1
2️⃣Document CollectionGather & verify all required documentsDay 1-2
3️⃣Affidavit DraftingPrepare & notarize sworn affidavitDay 2-3
4️⃣Newspaper PublicationPublish in National & Local newspapersDay 4-7
5️⃣Gazette ApplicationFile application & follow-upDay 8-10
6️⃣Gazette NotificationReceive official Gazette copyDay 15-25
7️⃣Document UpdatesGuidance for updating all documentsOngoing

We handle everything - From the first consultation to receiving your Gazette notification, our team manages the entire process so you don’t have to worry

What We Offer

ServiceDetails
Free ConsultationInitial assessment of your case
Document DraftingAffidavit and application preparation
Newspaper CoordinationManaging publication in approved newspapers
Gazette ApplicationFiling and follow-up
Document UpdatesGuidance for all document changes
Legal SupportHandling any objections or complications

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Q: Is name change through Gazette legally valid across India?

A: Yes, Central Gazette notification is valid throughout India. State Gazette notifications are primarily valid within that state.

Q: Can I change my name multiple times?

A: While legally possible, multiple name changes may create complications in document verification and could raise questions about intent.

Q: Is there an age limit for name change?

A: No age limit exists. However, minors require parental/guardian consent.

Process Questions

Q: How long does the entire process take?

A: Typically 2-4 weeks for the complete process, including Gazette notification.

Q: Can I change my name online?

A: Some states offer online Gazette application, but newspaper publication and affidavit still require physical processing.

Q: Do I need to appear in court?

A: No court appearance is required for normal name changes through Gazette notification.

Document Questions

Q: Which documents are mandatory?

A: At minimum, you need valid ID proof, address proof, photographs, and the reason for name change.

Q: Can I change my name if I have a criminal record?

A: Yes, but the authorities may conduct additional verification.

Q: What if my birth certificate has a different name?

A: You’ll need to either correct the birth certificate first or provide an explanation affidavit.

Name Change Agent in Delhi

Q: How much does a Name Change Agent in Delhi charge?

A: A Name Change Agent in Delhi typically charges ₹999 to ₹3999 depending on the services required, such as affidavit drafting, Gazette filing, or ID updation. Prices vary based on complexity.

Q: Is a Name Change Agent in Delhi needed for Gazette name change?

A: Yes, hiring a Name Change Agent in Delhi is highly recommended for Gazette name change as they ensure correct formatting, proper documentation, and error-free application submission, which increases approval chances.

Q: Do I need documents before contacting a Name Change Agent in Delhi?

A: Basic documents like Aadhaar, PAN, address proof, and passport-sized photos are usually needed before contacting a Name Change Agent in Delhi.

Q: How long does the process take with a Name Change Agent in Delhi?

A: The process takes 20–45 days when handled by a Name Change Agent in Delhi, depending on Gazette processing speed and documentation accuracy.

Q: Can a Name Change Agent in Delhi handle ID updates?

A: Yes, Name Change Agents in Delhi assist with updating your Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, and other government documents after Gazette approval.


Special Cases We Handle

NRI Name Change

For Non-Resident Indians:

  • Power of Attorney option available
  • Virtual consultation
  • Coordination with Indian Embassy/Consulate
  • Complete remote processing

Corporate Name in Documents

If your professional name differs from legal name:

  • Alias/AKA documentation
  • Professional name registration
  • Trade name considerations

Inter-State Name Change

Moving from one state to another:

  • State Gazette vs Central Gazette advice
  • Multi-state document updates
  • Address change coordination

Documents That Accept Gazette Notification

Document TypeIssuing AuthorityAcceptance
AadhaarUIDAI✓ Accepted
PANIncome Tax✓ Accepted
PassportMEA✓ Accepted
Driving LicenseState RTO✓ Accepted
Bank AccountsAll Banks✓ Accepted
Property DocumentsRevenue Dept✓ Accepted
Educational CertificatesBoards/Universities✓ Accepted

International Recognition

  • Gazette notification is recognized for visa applications
  • Apostille available for international use
  • Embassy/Consulate acceptance confirmed

Contact Us for Name Change Services

Our experienced lawyers in Delhi provide complete name change services:

  • Phone Consultation: Available for initial discussion
  • Office Visit: For document submission and verification
  • Online Support: For NRIs and remote clients

Ready to Start? Contact us today for a free consultation on your name change requirements. Our team will guide you through the entire process, ensuring a smooth and legally compliant name change.


  • Court Marriage Registration
  • Divorce Proceedings
  • Adoption Documentation
  • Property Name Transfer
  • Succession Certificate

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Legal requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. Please consult with our lawyers for specific advice on your name change case.