📑 Documents Required for Name Change in Gazette of India & Gazette of Maharashtra

Maharashtra Government Gazette

Gazette Documents required for name change

Changing your name legally is an Important step, and publishing it in the Gazette is the final and most authentic recognition of this change by the government. However, the process and documentation may vary depending on whether you’re applying through the Gazette of India (under the Central Government) or the Gazette of Maharashtra (State Government).

Established in 1996 we have more than 2 decades of experience in Publishing ads. In this guide, we break down every document required for both authorities, backed by our practical experience in Gazette applications.

✅What is a Gazette?

A Gazette is an official government journal that records Name Changes,  legal announcements, policy changes, and public notices. In India, if you change your name, it must be published in either the Gazette of India (for central records) or the State Gazette (like Maharashtra Gazette) to make it legally valid. This acts as proof when updating documents like Aadhaar, PAN, and passports.

Gazette notification is a legally recognized document, but it’s not the same as a legal certificate like an Aadhaar card or a birth certificate. Think of it as an official record—once something is published in the Gazette, it’s permanently documented by the government.

✅Why is the Gazette Legally Important?

  • Official Government Record – Once published, it stays in government archives permanently, serving as proof of the change.

  • Accepted by Authorities – Banks, passport offices, and government departments often require Gazette proof for updating names, lost documents, and other legal processes.

  • Mandatory in Some Cases – For government employees, a Gazette notification is compulsory for a name change, while for others, it can be useful for legal verification.

📜 Myth vs. Fact: Gazette as a Legal Document

Myth ❌ Fact ✅
📄 The Gazette is a certificate of my new name. 🔍 The Gazette is only proof of the name change, not a standalone certificate. You still need to update other documents.
🔄 A Gazette notification makes my new name valid everywhere automatically. 📝 You must manually update your name in Aadhaar, PAN, passport, etc., using Gazette proof.
🏛 Only government employees need to publish in the Gazette. 👥 The Gazette is optional for the general public but can help in official processes like passports and bank accounts.
⚖️ Once my name is in the Gazette, no one can challenge it. 🛡 The Gazette strengthens your claim, but if challenged legally, other supporting documents may be needed.

✅What Documents Are Required for Backward/Scheduled Caste Applicants in the Maharashtra Gazette?

Applicants belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or other Backward Classes notified by the Maharashtra Government must submit additional caste-related documents while applying for a name change in the Maharashtra Gazette.

🔹 For Adults (18 years and above):

  • An attested scanned copy of the Caste Certificate under the old name, issued by the Collector or Tahsildar of the respective district, must be uploaded as identity proof.

🔹For Minors (below 18 years of age):

  • An attested scanned copy of the father’s caste certificate under the old name is required, issued by the Collector or Tahsildar.

🧾 Important Notes:

  • This rule applies specifically to SC, ST, Vimukta Jatis, Nomadic Tribes, Navbuddhas, Tribals outside Vidarbha, and Special Other Backward Classes.

  • Other Backward Classes (OBCs) not listed above are not eligible for this specific concession.

  • The caste certificate must clearly mention the old name to link it with the name change application.

Just Fill in the Name Change egazette  form, and we shall get back to you. OR Call us on  8888337373 /9619979334 

NAME CHANGE
GAZETTE BOOKING FORM

    Select*

    Old Name* ;

    Father's / Husband's Name

    Surname

    New Name*

    Father's / Husband's Name

    Surname

    Address You Want To Display In The Gazette*

    Courier Address*

    Reason for change of name*

    Mobile*

    Email*

    ✅What Are the Reasons for Name Change in the Gazette?

    People apply for a name change in the Gazette for various personal, legal, and professional reasons. Below are the most common and popular ones:

      1. ✍️
        Spelling Correction in Name
        Fixing incorrect or inconsistent spellings across documents.Example: “Mohamed” changed to “Mohammad”.

      • 💍
        Name Change After Marriage
        Adopting spouse’s surname or modifying your name post-marriage.Example: “Anita Das” changed to “Anita Roy”.

      • ⚖️
        Name Change After Divorce
        Reverting to your maiden name or choosing a new name after divorce.Example: “Neha Mehta” changed back to “Neha Sharma”.

      • 🕌
        Change in Religion
        Changing name after religious conversion to reflect new faith.Example: “Sunil Kumar” converted to Islam and became “Suhail Khan”.

      • 🌈
        Change in Gender
        Transgender individuals aligning name with their gender identity.Example: “Ramesh” transitioned and became “Ria”.

      • 👪
        Adoption
        Changing the name and surname after being legally adopted.Example: “Amit” changed to “Amit Gupta” after adoption.

      • 🔢
        Numerology or Astrology
        Modifying spelling of names based on numerological belief.Example: “Ritika” changed to “Ritikaa”.

      • 👤
        Change in Surname
        Dropping caste-based surnames or adopting a new one.Example: “Anil Sharma” changed to “Anil Kumar”.

      • 📑
        Identity Consolidation
        Aligning names across Aadhaar, PAN, passport, etc. for consistency.Example: Changing “Rajiv Kumar” in Aadhaar to match “Rajeev Kumar” in PAN.

    • 💡
      Personal Preference
      Changing name simply because the current one doesn’t feel right.Example: “Pooja” changed to “Prisha” by personal choice.

    Maharashtra Gazette Name Change Categories & Documentation Requirements:

    Below is a detailed Category Structure for different types of Gazette name changes, including the required documents and applicable charges.

    Reason for Name Change Charges Documents Required Processing Time Call now
    💍 Marriage ₹1195/- 📄 PAN, Aadhaar, Passport size Photo, Application form ⏳ 5 to 14 days Apply Now
    💔 Divorce ₹1195/- 📄 Divorce Decree, PAN, Aadhaar, Passport size Photo, Application form ⏳ 5 to 14 days Apply Now
    ✏️ Document Spelling Error ₹1195/- 📄 PAN, Aadhaar, Passport size Photo, Application form ⏳ 5 to 14 days Apply Now
    👶 Name change of Minors ₹1195/- 📄 Father’s PAN, Aadhaar, Child’s BC, Passport size Photo, Application Form ⏳ 5 to 14 days Apply Now
    🔤 Middle Name Error ₹1470/- 📄 PAN, Aadhaar, Passport size Photo, Application form ⏳ 5 to 14 days Apply Now
    📅 Birth Date Change ₹1195/- 📄 Birth Certificate / LC, PAN, Aadhaar, Passport size Photo, Application form ⏳ 5 to 14 days Apply Now
    🕍 Religion Change ₹1195/- 📄 Conversion Certificate, PAN, Aadhaar, Passport size Photo, Application form ⏳ 5 to 14 days Apply Now

    Name change Gazette fees

    !!! TATKAL GAZETTE JOBS DONE !!!
    For Maharashtra Gazette Call 8888 33 7373

    ✅ Maharashtra Gazette: Check Status & Download Your Notification :

    How to Check and Download Your Maharashtra Gazette Notification

    To check the status of your Gazette application, visit the official website of the Government of Maharashtra:



    Steps to Check Gazette Status:

    1. Go to the official Gazette website.
    2. Under Services, select one of the following options:
      • Change in Name
      • Change in Date of Birth
      • Change in Religion
      • Part Two – Sankima Information & Advertising
    3. Enter your Applicant ID and click Search.

    Downloading Your Gazette Notification:

    • Once your application is processed, you can download the Gazette Notification from the website.
    • The Maharashtra Gazette Notification serves as the official name change proof accepted by all government and private institutions
    • It is required for updating your name in various legal and official documents.

    🏛️ Maharashtra Government Gazette Office Address

    To apply for name change in the Maharashtra Government Gazette, you may need to visit or send your documents to the official Gazette department in Mumbai:

    Government Press & Gazette Department (Maharashtra State Gazette Office)

    Director, Government Printing and Stationery, Maharashtra State  Maharashtra Gazette Documents required
    Government Press Building,
    21, Netaji Subhash Road,
    Charni Road (West),
    Mumbai – 400004
    📮 Landmark: Near Charni Road Railway Station, Marine Lines
    📞 Phone: 022-61316400 / 61316404
    🕰️ Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM
    📌 Google Maps: open here

    For any query or help you can contact at 022-61316404. You can also email them at dgps.support@mahaonline.gov.in. This office takes care of Gazette name change in Maharashtra so your name change process will be seamless.

    ✅ Essential Updates After Your Gazette Name Change

    Once your Gazette name change is completed, it’s important to update your name across all official documents to avoid legal and administrative issues. Here’s what you need to update:

    📝Government IDs & Documents:

    1. PAN Card: Update via NSDL or UTIITSL.
    2. Aadhaar Card: Update your name via the UIDAI website or Aadhaar center.
    3. Passport: Request a name change via Passport Seva Kendra.
    4. Driving License: Update your records at the RTO office.
    5. Voter ID: Apply for a name change with the Election Commission of India.

    🏦 Financial & Legal Records:

    1. Property Documents: Update your name in municipal and land records.
    2. Bank Accounts: Submit your Gazette notification to update your name in your bank records.
    3. Employment Records: Inform HR to update payroll, EPF, and official records.

    🎓Education & Certification:

    1. Education Certificates: Contact your university/board for name correction in degrees and mark sheets..

    🚨IMPORTANT

    1. A Gazette name change is permanent and remains recorded in the Gazette for future reference.
    2. Ensure all official records match to avoid discrepancies.
    3. Always verify the information with relevant authorities or official website to ensure you have the latest and accurate information.

    Central Gazette vs. Maharashtra Gazette: Document Requirements – Breakdown Comparison

    Features & Requirements Maharashtra Gazette Central Gazette (Delhi)
    🏢 Issuing Authority Directorate of Government Printing & Stationary, Mumbai Directorate of Printing, Department of Publication, M/o Housing and Urban Affairs, GoI
    🪪 Photo ID (Any One) PAN, Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License PAN, Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License
    🏠 Address Proof (Any One) Aadhaar, Passport, Ration Card, Electricity Bill Aadhaar, Passport, Electricity Bill
    📷 Photo 1 Passport-size Photo 2 Self-attested Photos
    👶 Birth Certificate ✅ Required (for minors) ✅ Required (for minors)
    📝 Application Form Form to be filled & signed No form; full document file required
    💿 CD ❌ Not Required ✅ Required
    📰 Newspaper Advertisement ❌ Not Required ✅ Mandatory
    📜 Affidavit ❌ Not Required ✅ Mandatory
    🎓 Class 10 Marksheet ❌ Not Required ✅ Required
    ⏱️ Processing Time 5-14 days 25-45 days

    📞 For Maharashtra Gazette: 8888337373 / 9619979334.  For Central Gazette (Delhi): 9619979334 / 9821566223 

    ✅Complete List of Name Change Categories in Central Gazette with Required Documents, Fees & Processing Time

    Sr. No Reasons for Name change Documents Required Charges Processing Time Call Now
    1 Minor (Child) Name Change Child’s BC, Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, Newspaper ad, Photo ₹1100/- 25 to 45 working days
    2 Adult Name Change Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, Newspaper ad,  CD, Photo ₹1700/- 25 to 45 working days
    3 After Marriage Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, Newspaper ad, CD, Photo ₹1100/- 25 to 45 working days
    4 After Divorce Divorce Decree, Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, Newspaper ad, CD, Photo ₹2750/- 25 to 45 working days
    5 Child’s Name after Divorce Divorce Decree, Child’s BC, Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, CD, Newspaper ad, Photo ₹3350/- 25 to 45 working days
    6 Aadhaar Card Name Correction Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, Newspaper ad, CD, Photo ₹1100/- 25 to 45 working days
    7 Correction of Document Errors Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, Newspaper ad, CD, Photo ₹1100/- 25 to 45 working days
    8 Religion Change Conversion Certificate, Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, Newspaper ad, CD, Photo ₹1100/- 25 to 45 working days
    9 Government Employee Name Change Deed, Pan, Aadhaar, Newspaper ad, CD, Photo ₹1100/- 25 to 45 working days
    10 Public Notice Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, CD, Newspaper ad, Photo ₹1400/- 25 to 45 working days
    11 Passport Name Change Pan, Aadhaar, Affidavit, CD,Newspaper ad, Photo ₹1100/- 25 to 45 working days

    ✅Central Gazette Office Address (Department of Publication, Government of India)

    If you’re applying for a name change in the Gazette of India, all physical applications are submitted to the Central Gazette Office in New Delhi. Below are the full contact details:

    Department of Publication (Central Gazette Office)

    Government of India  central gazette documents required
    Civil Lines,
    Delhi – 110054
    📮 Landmark: Near Old Secretariat or 5 min walk from Vidhan sabha Metro Stop
    📞 Phone: 011-2381 7823 / 2381 7824
    🕰️ Timings: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except public holidays)
    📌 Google Maps: Open in Maps

    ✅Is State Gazette Enough or Do I Need to Publish in the Central Gazette?

    A state or central gazette notification is legally valid proof of a name change. However, which one you should choose depends on where and how you plan to use your updated name.

    🔹 Legal Recognition of Gazette Notifications

    1. Both central and state gazette notifications have legal validity.
    2. The central gazette is accepted across India.
    3. The state gazette is mostly accepted within the issuing state, but it is not always guaranteed to be accepted for national-level applications.

    🔹 When Is a State Gazette Sufficient?

    A state gazette notification is usually enough for:

    1. Updating driving licence, state board mark sheets, local bank accounts, and state-level government documents.
    2. Some users have successfully used state gazette copies to update PAN, Aadhaar, and even passports, but acceptance may vary.

    💡 Example: If you are a resident of Maharashtra and want to update your name in the local RTO or Maharashtra SSC/HSC certificate, the state gazette is typically sufficient.

    🔹 When Is Central Gazette Preferred?

    You should strongly consider publishing in the Central Gazette if:

    1. You are applying for Central Government jobs or UPSC/SSC exams.
    2. You plan to relocate to another state in the future.
    3. The name change proof is required by national institutions such as Passport Office, UIDAI, or banks with national branches.
    4. The institution explicitly asks for a Central Gazette copy.

    💡 Example: A person from Karnataka moving to Delhi for a Central Government job might face issues if they submit only a state gazette copy.

    🔹 Institutional Requirements

    1. Some departments and authorities accept only Central Gazette notifications.
    2. Others might accept state gazette, especially for minor spelling corrections or surname changes.
    3. Always verify with the institution beforehand if you are unsure.

    🔹 Cost and Time Comparison

    Type of Gazette Cost Time Required Scope of Acceptance
    State Gazette Lower 15–30 days Mostly within the issuing state
    Central Gazette Slightly higher 30–60 days (or more) Nationwide recognition

    Central Gazette vs. Maharashtra Gazette: Document Requirements – Breakdown Comparison

    Features & Requirements Maharashtra Gazette Central Gazette (Delhi)
    🏢 Issuing Authority Directorate of Government Printing & Stationary, Mumbai Directorate of Printing, Department of Publication, M/o Housing and Urban Affairs, GoI
    🪪 Photo ID (Any One) PAN, Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License PAN, Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License
    🏠 Address Proof (Any One) Aadhaar, Passport, Ration Card, Electricity Bill Aadhaar, Passport, Electricity Bill
    📷 Photo 1 Passport-size Photo 2 Self-attested Photos
    👶 Birth Certificate ✅ Required (for minors) ✅ Required (for minors)
    📝 Application Form Form to be filled & signed No form; full document file required
    💿 CD ❌ Not Required ✅ Required
    📰 Newspaper Advertisement ❌ Not Required ✅ Mandatory
    📜 Affidavit ❌ Not Required ✅ Mandatory
    🎓 Class 10 Marksheet ❌ Not Required ✅ Required
    ⏱️ Processing Time 5-14 days 25-45 days

    📞 For Maharashtra Gazette: 8888337373 / 9619979334.  For Central Gazette (Delhi): 9619979334 / 9821566223 

     

    ✅ Final Takeaway

    Both gazettes are legally valid, but the Central Gazette is safer and more widely accepted, especially for those who move between states or deal with national-level institutions. If in doubt, opt for the Central Gazette to avoid future complications.