Changing your name legally in India is an organised process that ensures your new name is recognised by government authorities and institutions. Follow these steps to successfully change your name:

Eligibility for name change application

  • An individual above 18 years. The guardian/parents can change a minor’s name
  • The person should possess a legitimate government ID
  • The person should have a valid reason for a name change

Documents required for a name change

  • The name change affidavit duly signed by the deponent and attested to by the respective authority
  • The original newspaper containing the name change advertisement
  • The prescribed pro proforma duly signed by the applicant and two witnesses
  • Two passport-size photos
  • Copies of valid ID proof, i.e., PAN card, passport or Aadhaar card
  • A CD containing a soft copy of the duly filled application in .docx format
  • A letter stating that the content in the application is true
  • A request letter with the registration fee to the authority

Identify the reason for the name change

Before initiating the process, determine the reason for your name change. Common reasons include marriage, divorce, religious conversion, or personal preference. Clarifying the reason will help you proceed with the appropriate legal steps.

Draft an affidavit

Prepare an affidavit stating the reason to change the name. This legal document must include:

  • Your current name
  • The new name you wish to adopt
  • The reason for the change
  • Any other relevant details

The affidavit must be printed on stamp paper of the prescribed value, as per your state regulations, and should be notarised.

Publish a notification in the Gazette of India

You must publish a name change notification in the Gazette of India, which serves as an official government record. The publication should follow the prescribed format and should also be announced in at least two local newspapers—one in English and one in the regional language.

Apply for a name change deed

Once the Gazette notification is published, you need to create a Name Change Deed, a legal document confirming the name change. This deed must include details of both the old and new names and should be printed on a stamp paper of the appropriate value. It must be signed by two witnesses to validate its authenticity.

Update the name in official records

Finally, submit the Name Change Deed along with copies of the Gazette notification and affidavit to relevant authorities. This includes:

  • Passport office
  • Banks
  • Educational institutions
  • Government agencies
  • Other relevant organisations

Updating your records ensures that all official documents reflect your new name accurately.