A name is not just a word and it is a vital part of human life. It is an identifier to people who know you and remember you by. A name can represent your family background, culture or even some aspects regarding your character. This explains why most people take time when thinking about changing their names as it involves serious considerations.
In India people alter their names for all kinds of reasons. For instance, some change it because they got married or divorced; while others do it due to reasons associated with religion and personal convictions such as numerology and astrology. There are also certain instances when individuals change their names after converting into another faith or seeking a fresh start in life.
Whether you have recently tied the knot, divorced or are simply looking for a name change for any other reason, this guide will act as a helping hand to you. It provides an elaborate step guide on how to get things done right from collecting essential papers to comprehending legalities involved so as to face this life altering decision with complete awareness.
Changing a name is a big decision and people do it for many reasons. Here are some common reasons why people in India often change their names:
Marriage is a time of change and one of those changes can be taking a new name. It’s a tradition for many women to take their husband’s last name. Today, though, some men are taking their wives’ names, or couples are choosing hyphenated names.
After a divorce, many women choose to go back to their maiden name. This helps them feel like they are starting fresh and separating from their past experiences.
Some people change their names when they convert to a new religion. They choose a name that fits their new beliefs and helps them feel connected to their faith.
Sometimes, people change their names just because they want to. Maybe they don’t like their old name or want one that feels more like who they truly are. There can be many personal reasons for this.
In India some people change their names based on astrology or numerology. They believe that certain names bring good luck or success so they choose a new name to improve their fortune.
People may change their names for many reasons like after marriage or divorce because of religious beliefs, personal choices or even to bring good luck.
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Changing your name is not as simple as just picking a new one and starting to use it. There’s a special process you need to follow. In India, the rules for changing your name can be a bit different depending on which state you live in but it usually involves three main steps:
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.
Before you can change your name there are a few things you need to check:
You must be at least 18 years old to change your name in India. If you’re younger than 18 your parents will need to agree to the name change and some extra steps are needed.
You need to be an Indian citizen. If you’re not, the rules might be different and you should talk to your country’s embassy or consulate.
You should not have any ongoing legal cases or criminal charges. Changing your name won’t help you avoid any legal issues.
Once you meet these rules you can start the name-changing process, which we’ll explain more in the next sections.
The things mentioned below are necessary in order to process the name change:
First, you all need a valid ID like your Aadhar card, Voter ID, Passport and such. Along with this, you must have an original version along with its photocopy. The original one will help identify yourself while the photocopy is often included with your application for it’s a requirement
There is also a necessity for few passport-size photos. The name changing procedure requires them at different points, like in the affidavit or when issuing a legal notification (Gazette).
Make sure you have everything ready for any documents you may need depending on the reason for your name change. You could require, for instance, a marriage certificate in case you are changing your name due to marriage. If it’s because of a change in religion, proof that really shows your conversion is needed.
Having such documents handy will speed up the procedure and also help avoid future hiccups. In following parts, we shall provide stages involved in changing one’s name legally.
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Your name change is a multi-step legal process. Each step is important and has its own function. We will highlight them one at a time, so that it becomes easier for you.
In the process of changing your name, an affidavit is considered foundational. It’s a legal document that shows your intention of changing the current name.
The legally recognized formal statement is made by you through an affidavit which represents the beginning of the judicial action. It’s a reference document for courts and other institutions.
It is a careful work to write an affidavit. In this particular document, you should include your current name, the name you would like to assume, as well as the rationale for making this decision.
The affidavit is then to be notarised once drafted. There are local offices of notaries where you can get this done. They will verify your identity and put their seal on the document, thereby making it legitimate.
The next step in changing your name is to let people know by putting it in the newspaper.
Publishing your name change in a newspaper makes it public and clear. This way, everyone knows about the change, and it’s open for anyone to see.
The notice must be published in two papers: one in the indigenous dialect and another in English language. The magazines picked should be reliable so as to enhance their respectability.
The ad should be straightforward. It should mention your old name, new name, and date of affidavit creation.
Once published, keep copies of the newspaper clippings. You’ll need these for the final step Gazette Notification.
The last step in the name change process is getting a Gazette Notification.
A Gazette Notification is an official announcement by the government. It’s the final step that makes your name change legally binding.
To apply, you’ll need to submit a form along with the required documents, including the newspaper clippings, to the Department of Publications.
It is normally two to four weeks from the time of submission before the Gazette publishes the notification.
If you follow these steps accordingly, then you will easily manoeuvre through the name change process. Every single step is imperative, therefore ensure that none are left out. In the next sections, we talk about what should be done after a legal change of name has occurred.
The very first thing to do when preparing an affidavit for name change is engaging a notary and paying some amount of money for the stamp paper. As at now, it costs roughly about Rs. 20 in India so that anyone can have access to this type of documentation.
It’s obligatory to publish your new name in two local newspapers. This price may defer based on chosen newspapers but it’s mostly cheap.
The final step is getting your name change published in the Official Gazette. This involves a fee that varies based on the type of publication (General or Extraordinary). The process may also include a handling fee for the paperwork involved.
Govt normal fees – 1300 To 1500 (Adult)
Govt tatkal fess – 1000 + 1300 ( Minor)
Name Change Fee for General Public – ₹ 1,500 + ₹ 450 for each Alias
Name Change Fee for Minor Child – ₹ 2,100 + ₹ 450 for each Alias
Name Change Fee for Govt. Employee – ₹ 1,750 + ₹ 450 for each Alias
Name Change + Religion Change – ₹ 3,200 + ₹ 450 for each Alias
For Person Living In Abroad – ₹ 11,500/-
Changing your legal name in India involves several steps and it’s easy to make mistakes. Some common errors include not getting the affidavit notarized, choosing the wrong newspapers for the announcement and forgetting to keep copies of the newspaper clippings. To avoid delays make sure to fill out all forms correctly and double-check all documents.
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After getting married, Anita Verma changed her last name from Anita Sharma. She completed the affidavit process, published the name change in two local newspapers and received her Gazette Notification within three weeks.
Rahul Gupta converted to Islam and changed his name to Rahim Khan. He completed the affidavit with proof of conversion, published a detailed newspaper ad and updated all his legal documents without any problems.
Multiple internet sites provide comprehensive solutions for altering names, ezyLegal being one of them. They provide ready-made papers for affidavits, manage Gazette Notifications as well as facilitate advertisements in newspapers which eases the entire procedure. Time may be saved, and mistakes minimized through online platforms.
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.
A change of name is something that could have a wide range of implications as far as one’s life is concerned. The change of name must be reflected on all legal documents shared, including but not limited to; bank records, educational certificates and other identification documents. If not done so, it may create problems regarding the law in years to come or when there is a need for confirmation concerning your identity.
Hooray! You’ve managed to modify your identifier! However, there is still some remaining business to complete. In order for your new name to be recognized legally in every facet of your life, it must appear in several different legal documents.
Updating the Aadhar card is sometimes the first thing that hit many individuals’ minds. However; if you want to change your name in Aadhar Card then you must visit the nearest Aadhar Enrollment Center along with your Gazette Notification and photo ID.
As someone who often moves about across borders, it becomes imperative that you renew your passport. To do this, you should request for ‘reissue’ of your passport and provide all necessary documents like Gazette Notification among other things.
In addition to being used for elective purposes, the Voter ID is an identification card. You must complete Form 8 if you wish to alter your name and submit it with all other necessary papers to the Electoral Office.
Financial transactions require your PAN Card. To update name you must complete ‘Request for New PAN Card’ form and mail it with ‘Gazzate Notification’.
For obtaining a name change, go to the RTO which issued your driving license and file an application including other documents that may be required. In this way, all people will identify themselves by their new names.
In our 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.
Changing your name is a significant life event, and it’s natural to have questions. Let’s tackle some of the most commonly asked questions to help you navigate this process with confidence.
Ans1. No, the process for minors is a bit different. Parental consent is usually required, and a parent or guardian must sign the affidavit. The rest of the process, like newspaper publication and Gazette Notification, remains similar.
Ans2. The time frame can vary, but generally, the entire process takes about 2–4 weeks, excluding the time for updating all your legal documents. It’s best to start early to avoid any delays.
Ans3. The cost can vary depending on the state you’re in and the newspapers you choose for publication. On average, you can expect to spend around ₹1000 to ₹3000 for the entire process, not including the fees for updating legal documents.
Ans4. Yes, you’ll need at least one witness when you get your affidavit notarized. The witness should know you personally and be willing to vouch for your identity.
Ans5: To change your name legally in India, you must create an affidavit, publish a newspaper notice, and obtain a Gazette Notification. This process ensures your new name is legally recognized.
Ans6: The procedure to change name involves creating a notarized affidavit, publishing a notice in newspapers, and getting a Gazette Notification from the government.
Ans7: Yes, you can change your name for personal reasons, including personal preference, numerology, or astrology, by following the legal process.
Ans8: To change your surname after marriage, you need to create an affidavit, publish a newspaper notice, and obtain a Gazette Notification, similar to the general name change process.
Ans9: The entire process typically takes 2-4 weeks, excluding the time needed to update all your legal documents.
Ans10: The cost varies by state and chosen newspapers, generally ranging from ₹1000 to ₹3000, excluding fees for updating legal documents.
Ans11: After obtaining a Gazette Notification, update your Aadhar card, passport, Voter ID, PAN card, and driving license with your new name.
Ans12: No, you should have no pending legal issues or criminal cases against you to change your name legally.
Ans13: For religious name changes, include proof of conversion along with the affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification steps.
Ans14. Yes, you can change your surname in India by following the legal process which includes affidavit creation, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans15. Changing your surname in India involves creating an affidavit, publishing it in newspapers, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans16. Yes, you can legally change your surname in India by following the prescribed legal procedure.
Ans17. To prepare for a name change, draft an affidavit, publish it in newspapers, and obtain a Gazette Notification.
Ans18. If you want to change your name, follow the legal steps of affidavit creation, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification.
Ans19. Changing to a new name requires an affidavit, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans20. The process of changing your surname involves creating an affidavit, publishing it in newspapers, and getting it gazetted.
Ans21. The process of changing your name includes drafting an affidavit, publishing it in newspapers, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans22. After legally changing your name, update all your documents including Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, PAN Card, and Driving License.
Ans23. The procedure for changing your name in India includes affidavit drafting, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans24. In India, the process of changing your name involves creating an affidavit, publishing it in newspapers, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans25. Currently, there is no provision for changing your name legally online in India. You must follow the offline process of affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification.
Ans26. To change your name officially in India, follow the legal steps of affidavit creation, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans27. The procedure for name change in India involves affidavit creation, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification from the government.
Ans28. To legally change your name in India, prepare an affidavit, publish it in newspapers, and obtain a Gazette Notification.
Ans29. Yes, individuals in India can change their name legally by following the prescribed process of affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette Notification.
Ans30. Yes, individuals in India can change their surname legally by following the process of affidavit creation, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans31. Changing your name requires creating an affidavit, publishing it in newspapers, and obtaining a Gazette Notification in India.
Ans32. No, you cannot legally change someone else’s name without their consent in India.
Ans33. The process of changing your name in India includes affidavit drafting, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans34. The procedure for change of name in India involves affidavit creation, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans35. Changing your name in India requires an affidavit, newspaper publication, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
Ans36. To change your surname legally in India, prepare an affidavit, publish it in newspapers, and obtain a Gazette Notification.
Ans37. The procedure to change your name in India includes drafting an affidavit, publishing it in newspapers, and obtaining a Gazette Notification.
By now, we’ve covered the A to Z of changing your name in India. Whether you’re doing it for personal, professional, or spiritual reasons, we hope this guide has been your go-to resource. In the next sections, we’ll share some additional resources to help you on this journey.
Ans38. Changing name legally in India involves drafting an affidavit, publishing a newspaper advertisement, and notifying the change in the Gazette of India. Legal compliance and certain paperwork, like ID verification and the publication of the Gazette notice, are needed for this process.
Ans39. To change your name, you often need to submit a petition to your local court. To accomplish this, you might have to submit paperwork and show up in court. Visit the website of your local government and get in touch with your circuit court to learn about the legal procedures involved in changing your name.
Ans40. Applicant can apply for name change in gazette after receipt of divorce deed along with other required documents for gazette name change online. We will provide a customized affidavit format for the application, and the customer must prepare the affidavit for the online application.
Ans41. The legal procedure to change your name will require you to pay filing and court fees. You will also have to pay for any new identity that you require, like a driver’s license or Aadhaar card.
Ans42. Create an affidavit and include information about the proposed new name, the previous name, the address, and the reason for the name change (marriage, legal, numerological, etc.). Print an affidavit on stamp paper and get it duly signed by two witnesses. Visit the notary to notarise the affidavit.
Ans43. To legally change one’s name in India, one must adhere to specific legal requirements and submit the required paperwork to the relevant authorities. It is important to note that changing one’s name is not a simple process and requires careful consideration and planning.
Ans44. The applicant’s signature and the signatures of two witnesses are on the prescribed proforma in printed form. Two photos the size of a passport. Copies of a valid ID document, such as a passport, Aadhaar card, or PAN card. A CD containing a fully finished digital copy of the application.
Ans45. A person can change his/her name at any time in his/her lifetime. But it must be done officially, which entails drafting an affidavit, putting an ad in the paper, and notifying the Indian Gazette of the change.
Ans46. In total, the entire name change process in India may take anywhere from 4-6 weeks or even longer in some cases. The exact conditions and the effectiveness of the relevant government agencies and organisations will determine the timeline in significant part.
Ans47. Procedure for Name Change in India:
Ans48. Every person has different requirements so check what is needed to complete the process. You usually need a valid form of identification and certified evidence of your previous name. You may need to show a certified copy of your separation agreement or divorce decree in case of divorce.
Ans49. Name change means you will be called by another or different name or Surname. But in name correction, Name and Surname will remain the same but, 2–3 alphabets will be added to it keeping the pronunciation the same or similar.
Ans50. Explore the legal parameters and considerations dictating when individuals can legally change their names, providing insights into the age-related regulations governing this important personal choice. The official age to change the name is, however, 18 years old.
Ans51. Articles 19(1)(a) and 21 of the Constitution of India grant every citizen the fundamental right to keep or change his or her name. However, it is not an absolute right and is subject to various restrictions as prescribed by law.
Ans52. How to legally change your name in India: Complete guide
Ans53. The total cost for the Name change is ₹8500/- to get your name legally changed. However, it is to be noted that every case is unique and cost may change accordingly.
Ans54. Yes, you certainly can change your name from one to another then to another and so on. There is no restriction in this aspect.
Ans55. In other circumstances for change of name, the applicant (male or female) should furnish: (i) Gazette notification of the state government concerned or central gazette and clippings of newspapers regarding change of name; and (ii) At least two public/school documents issued in the desired name.
Ans56. The official age to change the name is however 18 years old. Explore the legal parameters and considerations dictating when individuals can legally change their names, providing insights into the age-related regulations governing this important personal choice.
Ans57. Three steps to change the gender marker and name:
Ans58. To change your name on any official certificate in India, first, obtain a notarised affidavit stating the name change. Then, publish the change in at least two newspapers (one local and one national). Finally, submit these documents, along with the original certificate, to the issuing authority for amendment.
Ans59. Yes, You are allowed to change your name but only through a legal process. Seek the help of a local notary to make an affidavit for name change. You can fill in your new name on the form.
Ans60. After Change of Name Proceedings (which is a legal proceeding) and publication of new name in Govt. Gazette, the old name becomes null & void and it is a prosecutable offence of Misrepresentation, Cheating, Swindling, Breach of Trust, etc to use an old name or any other name.
Ans61. Since no law says that a woman needs to change their surnames after marriage. The choice is their if they want to change their respective surname then they can and if they don’t then no one can force them.
Ans62. The changed name will be in force from the date of the Gazette notification. All old existing papers will be in your name as of date or as it is, no change is possible. You have to make an Affidavit regarding the change in your name. Also, make an application for a change in your name in the official gazette.
Ans63. To change your name on any official certificate in India, first, obtain a notarised affidavit stating the name change. Then, publish the change in at least two newspapers (one local and one national).
Ans64. You can change your name after graduation, you would need to provide Affidavits that must be submitted to the respective authorities, which are normally notarised by a gazetted officer.
Ans65. Firstly, you do an Affidavit in your district court w.r.t. change in name, etc. Secondly, all the changes in name, etc. which you need to be changed shall be printed in two famous newspapers circulated in your state. Thirdly, you must take all the changes in name, etc., to be printed in Government Gazette.
Ans66. Get an affidavit from court, declare the change in 2 major newspapers, submit a copy of the affidavit everywhere where you’re going for a name change on certificates.
Changing your name is a significant life decision that involves navigating complex legal procedures. Why go through it alone when you can have experts by your side? At ezyLegal, we specialize in end-to-end legal services for name changes, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Adv. Parineeti GN
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Parineeti GN is a legal consultant who prioritises ethical and professional conduct. She graduated with (B.A. and LL.B) from the K.L.E. Society Law College. With more than 8 years of experience in handling legal cases independently. She has the potential to understand and explain complicated legal words in simple terms to clients.
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