Name Change Process: Affidavit, Newspaper & Gazette

Name Change Affidavit Process – SK Document Centre

Short answer: A legal name change usually takes three steps: a name change affidavit on stamp paper attested by a notary, advertisements in two newspapers, and publication in the Gazette of India. After the gazette notification, you update your passport, Aadhaar, PAN and other records.

People search for a name change notary near me or name change affidavit after marriage, divorce, a spelling mistake or a personal choice. Here is the full process.

Step 1: name change affidavit

The affidavit states your old name, new name, reason and the documents where the old name appears. It is printed on e-stamp paper and attested by a notary (or by a magistrate if your authority asks). See how to make an affidavit.

Step 2: newspaper advertisements

Publish a short notice in two newspapers, usually one English and one in the local language, circulating where you live. Keep the full original pages.

Step 3: gazette notification

Apply for publication in the Gazette of India through the Department of Publication, now done online. The application includes the affidavit, newspaper cuttings, ID proofs and photographs. See gazette publication.

Documents needed

Name change affidavit
Original newspaper pages
ID and address proof
Passport-size photographs
Proof of reason (such as a marriage certificate), where relevant

Timeline

Step	Typical time
Affidavit	Same day
Newspaper ads	1–3 days
Gazette publication	A few weeks

Name change for use abroad

If the name change must be accepted abroad, the affidavit or gazette may also need state and MEA attestation or an apostille.

Starting a name change? Send a photo of the document or the instruction you received on WhatsApp or call +91 93109 70010. We tell you the exact process, time and charges before you spend anything.

Frequently asked questions

How do I change my name legally?

Affidavit, two newspaper advertisements and a gazette notification.

Is an affidavit enough for a name change?

For some minor corrections, offices may accept it. For a full legal change, the gazette is the strongest proof.

Where do I get a name change affidavit?

At a notary desk with e-stamp paper and drafting. We do it in one visit.

Do I need a gazette after marriage?

Not always. Many offices accept the marriage certificate. Check with each office.