Need a name change affidavit format? This page explains when you need it, what it must contain and how to make it valid, step by step. You can also get CIVL’s ready-to-use name change affidavit format as an editable Word file and PDF.
Quick answer
To change your name legally in India, you swear a name change affidavit before a notary, publish the change in two newspapers (one English, one regional), and, for most official records, publish it in the Gazette. The affidavit is made on stamp paper as per your state.
Read the full guide: Gazette name change: how to change your name legally in India
Related guide: Marriage registration: how to get your marriage certificate
What is a name change affidavit?
A name change affidavit is a sworn statement that you have changed your name from your old name to a new one, giving the reason (marriage, divorce, religion, spelling correction or personal choice) and confirming that both names belong to the same person.
The affidavit is the first step. The newspaper notices and the Gazette notification make the change public. The Central Gazette (published by the Department of Publication) is widely accepted for passports, PAN and records outside your state; State Gazettes are used for many state records.
When you need it
- You want to change your first name or surname, or correct its spelling.
- You have changed your name after marriage or divorce.
- Your name is spelt differently in different documents.
- A school, university, bank or passport office asks for proof of name change.
Stamp duty, notarisation and registration
| Requirement | What applies | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stamp paper / e-stamp | Usually required | Non-judicial stamp paper; the value depends on your state. |
| Notarisation | Required | Sworn before a Notary or Oath Commissioner. |
| Registration | Not needed | The Gazette notification is the official public record. |
| Witnesses | Not usually needed | The notary identifies you from your ID. |
Stamp paper value and Gazette procedures differ by state. For the Central Gazette, check the current process and fee on the e-Gazette portal.
What the name change affidavit must contain
- Your current (old) name, new name, age, parents’ or spouse’s name and full address.
- Reason for the change.
- Statement that you will be known by the new name in future for all purposes.
- Statement that the old and new names belong to the same person.
- For a minor, the affidavit is sworn by a parent or guardian.
- Verification clause, date, place and your signature, attested by the notary.
How to make it valid: step by step
- Prepare the affidavit. Fill in the format exactly; spell the new name as you want it everywhere.
- Get it notarised. Sign before a Notary or Oath Commissioner on stamp paper of the value your state requires.
- Publish in two newspapers. One English and one regional-language newspaper in your area. Keep full-page copies.
- Apply for Gazette publication. Apply to the Department of Publication (Central Gazette) or your State Government Press with the affidavit, newspaper cuttings, ID and photos.
- Download the Gazette notice. Once published, download it from the e-Gazette site.
- Update your documents. Use the affidavit, newspaper ads and Gazette to update Aadhaar, PAN, passport, bank and certificates.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Spelling differences. The new name must be spelt identically in the affidavit, ads and Gazette.
- Skipping the Gazette. Many offices accept only a Gazette notification for a full name change.
- Not keeping the full newspaper page. Keep the full page showing the paper’s name and date.
- Using a minor’s own signature. Parents or guardians sign for minors.
CIVL format
Get the ready-to-use name change affidavit format
- Editable Word file and a print-ready PDF
- Notes on how to fill every blank
- Versions for marriage, divorce and spelling correction
- Newspaper advertisement text
- Delivered to your email after payment
Price: ₹49 · Coming soon
Frequently asked questions
Is a name change affidavit enough?
For small corrections some offices accept it, but for a full change most offices ask for the Gazette notification too.
Do married women need a Gazette notification?
Not always. A marriage certificate is often enough to add a spouse’s surname, for example for passports. Check the specific office’s rules.
How long does Gazette publication take?
It varies; the Central Gazette is published weekly, and processing can take several weeks.
Can I change a child’s name?
Yes. The parent or guardian swears the affidavit, and school records are updated with the Gazette notice.
Where can I get a ready-to-use name change affidavit format?
CIVL’s name change affidavit format comes as an editable Word file and a print-ready PDF, with notes on filling every blank and checking your state’s rules. Use the button above to be told when it is available.