📝 Gazette Name Change Gujarat — Complete Guide

1. Introduction & Importance  Gujarat Gazette

Changing one’s name is not only a personal choice but also a matter of legal identity. In Gujarat, just like in the rest of India, the most authoritative method to get your new name recognized is through a Gazette notification.

While an affidavit (અફિડેવિટ) and newspaper advertisement (અખબારમાં જાહેરાત) are essential steps, it is the publication in the Gazette of India that gives your name change legal weight, making it acceptable across all government departments, banks, universities, and even foreign embassies.

Why a Gujarat‑Specific Guide?

    • Many applicants in Gujarat get confused whether to use the Central Gazette of India or the Gujarat State Gazette.
    • Certain institutions in Gujarat (like Gujarat University, state RTO offices, local banks) often look for Gujarati-language newspaper ads alongside Gazette proof.
    • Understanding Gujarat’s local stamp duty rules, affidavit practices, and preferred newspapers ensures your application is not rejected.

Key Takeaway

If you are from Gujarat, you will almost always need to publish in the Central eGazette of India for nationwide acceptance. Gujarat eGazette is supplementary and useful locally, but not sufficient alone

    Select*

    👤Old Name*

    👪Father's / Husband's Name

    👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Surname

    ✅New Name*

    👪Father's / Husband's Name

    👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Surname

    📍Address to be Displayed in the Gazette*

    🚚Courier Address*

    ❓Reason for change of name*

    📞Mobile*

    📧Email*

    Central Gazette name change

    2. What is a Gazette & Why It Matters

    2.1 Definition of Gazette

    A Gazette is an official government publication — a journal in which the government prints notifications, legal rules, amendments, and public notices.

    Gazette of India

    Published by the Department of Publication, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs.

    Website: egazette.gov.in

    Gujarat Gazette (ગુજરાત સરકાર ગેઝેટ)

    Published by the Directorate of Government Printing & Stationery, Gandhinagar.

    Website: egazette.gujarat.gov.in

    2.2 Why Gazette Notification for Name Change?  Steps to download Gazette

    • Provides permanent, verifiable public record.
    • Accepted by all government authorities (Passport, Aadhaar, PAN, banks, RTOs, courts).
    • More authoritative than just affidavit and newspaper ad.
    • Prevents fraud and identity misuse by keeping an official record.
    • Required for many legal, financial, and immigration processes.

    2.3 Example: Central vs Gujarat Gazette

    Scenario Recommended Gazette Reason
    Ahmedabad resident changing name for passport or PAN card Central Gazette of India Mandatory for national‑level documents
    Same person updating property records in Gujarat only Gujarat State Gazette (may be accepted) Usually Central Gazette suffices everywhere

    3. Legal Foundations

    Unlike acts like the “Hindu Marriage Act” or “Companies Act,” there is no dedicated “Name Change Act” in India. Instead, the process is governed by administrative rules and supported by legal principles.

    3.1 Sources of Legality

    • Constitutional Rights
        • Right to personal liberty and identity (Article 21).
        • Right to free speech and expression (Article 19) includes name choice.
    • Oaths Act, 1969 —Governs affidavits and declarations used in name change.
    • Indian Evidence Act, 1872 — Recognizes affidavits, Gazette entries, and public documents as evidence
    • Court Precedents —Indian courts have consistently held that Gazette notification is valid proof of name change.
    • Department of Publication Rules —The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs issues guidelines for eGazette submissions.

    3.2 Gujarat‑Specific Notes

    • Affidavit (અફિડેવિટ) must be executed on non-judicial stamp paper (typically ₹20, ₹50, or ₹100 depending on lawyer/notary advice).
    • Notarization is done before a Notary Public or Executive Magistrate.
    • Gujarat eGazette portal is functional but not widely used for name changes; most residents opt for Central eGazette.

    4. Categories of Name Change (Detailed)

    Different situations require different supporting documents. Below is a Gujarat-specific breakdown.

    4.1 After Marriage (નામ બદલવું લગ્ન પછી)

    Who: Brides (and sometimes grooms) taking new surnames after marriage.

    Required Docs:

    • Marriage certificate
    • Affidavit mentioning maiden name → married name
    • Newspaper ads in English + Gujarati

    Sample Wording (Gujarati newspaper ad):

    “હું [Old Name], દીકરી [Father’s Name], હવે લગ્ન પછી મારું નામ [New Name] તરીકે ઓળખાવું છું.”

    4.2 After Divorce / Separation

    Who: Individuals reverting to maiden name or taking a fresh name.

    Required Docs:

    • Divorce decree / family court order
    • Affidavit with old & new names clearly stated
    • Newspaper ads in English + Gujarati

    Some local agencies may ask for a certified copy of the divorce decree along with Gazette notification.

    4.3 For Minors (નાબાલિગ માટે નામ બદલવું)

    Who: Children below 18 years (parents/guardians apply).

    Required Docs:

    • Birth certificate of child
    • Aadhaar card of parents
    • Affidavit executed by parent/guardian
    • Newspaper ads mentioning minor’s details

    Example: If a school in Surat misspelled a child’s surname, parents must apply via Gazette for correction.

    4.4 Gender / Identity Change (લિંગ/ઓળખ બદલવા માટે)

    Who: Transgender individuals or those formally changing identity.

    Required Docs:

    • Affidavit declaring new name and gender identity
    • Certificate under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 (if available)
    • Newspaper ads in English + Gujarati

    Important: Gujarati ads should use respectful language.

    Bharat ka rajpatra Government Charges

    4.5 Adoption Cases

    Who: Adopted children taking adoptive family’s surname.

    Required Docs:

    • Registered adoption deed or family court order
    • Birth certificate (updated or original)
    • Affidavit by adoptive parents
    • Newspaper ads (English + Gujarati)

    4.6 Religious Conversion

    Who: Individuals changing religion and adopting a new name.

    Required Docs:

    • Religious conversion certificate
    • Affidavit stating old → new name
    • Newspaper ads (with Gujarati translation recommended)

    Gujarati example

    “હું અગાઉ [Old Name] તરીકે ઓળખાતો/જાતી હતો/હતી, હવે ધર્મ પરિવર્તન પછી મારું નામ [New Name] રાખ્યું છે.”

    4.7 Spelling Correction / Minor Errors

    Who: Individuals correcting typos/ inconsistent spellings across documents.

    Required Docs:

    • Proof of correct spelling (school record, PAN, passport)
    • Affidavit clarifying correct spelling
    • Newspaper ad (English + Gujarati)

    4.8 Surname / Family Tradition Changes

    Who: Families standardizing surnames across documents (e.g., Patel → Patidar).

    Required Docs:

    • Family affidavit (each member should still execute individual affidavits)
    • Supporting documents showing family linkage
    • Newspaper ads (may combine in a group notice if allowed)

    4.9 Professional / Numerology / Stage Name

    Who: Individuals changing names for career branding, numerology, or stage/pen names.

    Required Docs:

    • Affidavit stating old → new name & reason
    • Newspaper ads in English + Gujarati

    4.10 NRIs / OCI Holders with Gujarat Origin

    Who: NRIs who need changes recognized in India and abroad.

    Required Docs:

    • Overseas affidavit (notarized) + apostille / consular attestation
    • Indian address proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID of Gujarat)
    • Newspaper ads in Gujarat & English dailies
    • Central Gazette publication (mandatory)

    📋  Process, Checklists, Timelines & Pitfalls

    5. Step‑by‑Step Procedure (Detailed Gujarat Context)

    The name change process for Gujarat residents follows the same three pillars (Affidavit → Newspaper → Gazette), but with state-specific nuances.

    1

    Step 1: Draft Affidavit (અફિડેવિટ)  Gazette booking for Gujarat

    • Prepare on non-judicial stamp paper (₹20, ₹50 or ₹100).
    • Must include:
      • Old name (with father’s/husband’s name for clarity)
      • New name (desired)
      • Reason for change (marriage, divorce, correction, etc.)
      • Address (Gujarat-based if resident here)
      • Date of birth & occupation
      • Declaration of good faith (“this change is not for fraudulent purposes”)

    👉 Tip:

    • Use simple Gujarati wording if you are comfortable, e.g.
      “હું [Old Name], હાલ [Address], જાહેર કરું છું કે હવે પછી મારું નામ [New Name] રહેશે.”
    • For minors, affidavit must be sworn by parents/guardians.

    2

    Step 2: Publish Newspaper Advertisements (અખબારમાં જાહેરાત)

    • Publish in two newspapers:
      1. One English daily (Times of India – Ahmedabad, Indian Express, Hindustan Times)
      2. One Gujarati daily (Sandesh, Gujarat Samachar, Divya Bhaskar)
    • Contents:
      • Old name → New name
      • Father’s/guardian’s name (optional but recommended in Gujarat)
      • Full address
      • Date of affidavit
    • Keep original clippings & scanned copies.

    👉 Local practice: Some institutions in Gujarat (banks, universities) often specifically ask for Gujarati ad copy — make sure the translation is correct and respectful.

    3

    Step 3: Prepare eGazette Submission File  Easy Gazette Booking Step by step

    • Combine affidavit, newspaper clippings, covering letter, and ID/address proofs.
    • Format requirements (as per Department of Publication):
      • A4 size, margins 2.5 cm, Times New Roman font, 12pt.
      • Old name → New name statement in clear bold line.
    • Save as Word or PDF.
    • Label file clearly, e.g. Gazette_NameChange_Ahmedabad2025.pdf.

    4

    Step 4: Pay Publication Fees

    • Gazette of India fee: ~₹1,000–₹1,500 (varies by year & category).
    • Payment methods:
      • Online challan (via Bharat Kosh portal)
      • Treasury challan (rare now, mostly online used)
    • Keep payment receipt attached to your application.

    5

    Step 5: Submission to Gazette Office

    • Submit application to Department of Publication, New Delhi (or upload on eGazette portal).
    • Some still courier CD/DVD + hard copy file.
    • For Gujarat applicants: you may check with Directorate of Printing & Stationery, Gandhinagar, but in most cases Central Gazette suffices.

    6

    Step 6: Gazette Publication & Download

    • After verification, your notice appears in the Central Gazette (Part IV, Miscellaneous Notices).
    • You can download the PDF from egazette.gov.in.
    • Gazette notification includes: Issue number, date, and your Old Name → New Name.

    Step7: Update Identity Documents

    Once Gazette is published, use it to update:

    • Aadhaar (UIDAI centres in Gujarat)
    • PAN card (via NSDL/TIN portal)
    • Passport (PSK Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, Vadodara)
    • Voter ID (State Election Office Gujarat)
    • Driving licence & RC (Gujarat RTO)
    • Bank accounts & insurance
    • University/school certificates

    👉 Carry Gazette PDF + affidavit + newspaper ad clippings when applying.

     

    6. Documents Checklist

    6.1 General Checklist (All Applicants)

    Document Details
    Affidavit (અફિડેવિટ) Notarized; includes Old → New name, DoB, address, reason, declaration
    Newspaper Ads One English + one Gujarati; clear clippings and scans
    ID Proof Aadhaar / PAN / Passport / Voter ID
    Address Proof Aadhaar / electricity bill / rental agreement
    Passport Photos 2–4 copies if required
    Fee Receipt Online challan/receipt attached
    Covering Letter Addressed to Department of Publication
    Soft Copy Word/PDF with all annexures; proper naming

    6.2 Category‑Specific Extras

    Category Extra Documents
    Marriage Marriage certificate / wedding card
    Divorce Divorce decree / court order
    Minor Birth certificate; parent/guardian ID; consent affidavit
    Gender/Identity Medical/Identity certificate (if available)
    Adoption Adoption deed / court order
    Religious Conversion Conversion certificate from religious authority
    Spelling/Minor Correction Proof of correct spelling (school record/PAN/passport)
    NRI/OCI Apostilled/consular affidavit; India address proof

    7. Timeline & Cost (Gujarat Context)

    7.1 Stage‑wise Timeline

    Stage Approx Time
    Draft affidavit 1 day
    Publish newspaper ads 1–3 days
    Prepare file & pay fees 1–2 days
    Gazette verification & publication 30–45 working days (sometimes 60+)
    Update IDs after publication 2–5 days
    Typical total time: 5–8 weeks in Gujarat.

    7.2 Cost Breakdown

    Item Approx Cost (₹) Notes
    Affidavit + stamp + notarization 200–600 Depends on value of stamp paper
    Newspaper ads (2) 400–2,500 Varies by paper & city
    Gazette publication fee 11,00–3,6500 As per Department of Publication
    Courier / scanning 100–300 If hard copy/CD is requested
    Service provider (optional) 1,500–5,000 For facilitation/documentation
    Total realistic range: ₹2,500 – ₹7,500.

    8. Common Pitfalls, Objections & How to Avoid

    8.1 Frequent Mistakes

    • Spelling mismatches: Old and new names differ slightly across affidavit, ads, and ID proof → rejection.
    • Poor Gujarati translation: Ads in Gujarati sometimes use incorrect spellings; double-check with proofreader.
    • Wrong stamp paper denomination: Gujarat stamp duty is strict — use correct value.
    • Low quality newspaper scans: Rejected if clippings are blurred.
    • Late or missing fee payment proof: Challan not attached → file rejected.
    • Incomplete affidavit details: Missing DOB or father’s name can delay approval.

    8.2 Possible Objections

      • From Gazette office: Usually about formatting, incomplete docs, or fee mismatch.
      • From public (via newspaper ads): Very rare, but possible in cases of property disputes, adoption, or divorce.
      • If objection arises, Gazette authority may ask you to respond or seek a court order

    8.3 Avoid Rejection — Quick Tips

    • Cross-check spellings three times across all documents.
    • Use clear, respectful Gujarati wording for newspaper notices.
    • Always attach Aadhaar + one more ID proof for authenticity.
    • Submit file in correct format (A4, margin 2.5 cm, PDF/Word).
    • Pay fees via official portal; keep e-receipt safely.
    • Keep 2–3 certified copies of affidavit and Gazette for future.
    • Submit application at start of month — Gazette notifications are often batched monthly.

    9. History & Context of Gazette in Gujarat

    9.1 British-Era Gazette Tradition

    • During colonial times, the Bombay Presidency Gazette (which included Gujarat districts) was the official channel for publishing laws, rules, and public notices.
    • These gazettes contained not just legal orders but also social and cultural notifications (appointments, land transfers, even public service exams).

    9.2 Gujarat State Gazette (ગુજરાત રાજ્ય ગેઝેટ)

    • Post-independence, Gujarat established its own Gazette under the Directorate of Government Printing & Stationery (શાહી છાપાખાનું), Gandhinagar.
    • Today, Gujarat eGazette (egazette.gujarat.gov.in) publishes state-specific notifications — rules, recruitment, tenders, etc.
    • While it plays a vital role in local governance, name change applications are still mostly routed through Central Gazette of India for nationwide validity.

    9.3 Why Gujarati Newspaper Ads Still Matter

    Even if the Gazette is central, Gujarati-language newspapers carry social legitimacy in the state. Employers, schools, and banks often ask for Gujarati ad clippings along with Gazette proof.

    10. Using the Gazette Notification After Publication

    Once your name is officially published in the Gazette, the real work begins: updating all your personal documents.

    10.1 Aadhaar (UIDAI Gujarat)

    • Visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra or authorized enrolment centre.
    • Carry Gazette copy + affidavit + one more ID.
    • Fill “Update Request Form” → Biometric authentication required.
    • Typical update time: 15 – 45 days.

    10.2 PAN Card

    • Apply via NSDL/UTIITSL online portals.
    • Select “Change/Correction in PAN data.”
    • Upload Gazette + affidavit as proof.
    • Updated PAN is issued within 15–20 working days.

    10.3 Passport (PSKs in Gujarat)

    • Submit Gazette + affidavit at PSK Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, or Vadodara.
    • Marriage/divorce cases require marriage certificate/divorce decree also.
    • Verification may involve police check.

    10.4 Voter ID (Election Commission Gujarat)

    • File Form 8 for correction of details.
    • Attach Gazette notification as proof.
    • Updated Voter ID usually issued in 2–3 weeks.

    10.5 Driving Licence & Vehicle RC (Gujarat RTO)

    • Submit Gazette + affidavit at RTO office (Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara etc.).
    • Update DL, RC, and insurance policy.

    10.6 Academic Records (Schools & Universities in Gujarat)

    • Gazette copy often accepted by Gujarat University, GTU, MSU Baroda etc.
    • Some institutions may also ask for newspaper clippings.
    • Affidavit and Gazette together are enough to apply for correction in marksheets.

    10.7 Banks & Insurance Companies

    • Submit Gazette + ID proof at your branch.
    • Update bank accounts, mutual funds (KYC), LIC/insurance records.

    11. Special Notes for NRIs / OCI Applicants

    • Affidavit abroad: Must be notarized locally and then apostilled (if Hague convention country) or attested by Indian consulate.
    • Newspaper ads: One in Gujarati (for home state records) and one in English (international recognition).
    • Submission: Still to the Central Gazette of India.
    • Usage abroad:
      • Universities (e.g., Canada, UK) usually accept Gazette copy + apostille affidavit.
      • Immigration: May require additional local court affidavit.

       

    • OCI/PIO holders: Same process; Gazette makes it valid in India.

    12. Extended FAQ Section (43 Localized Questions & Answers)

    Here’s the exhaustive FAQ set (localized for Gujarat context).

    General FAQs

    Q1. Is Gazette notification mandatory in Gujarat for name change?  Gujarat Gazette

    • Short Answer: Yes, almost all government departments now require Gazette for official name change.

    • Detailed Answer: Earlier, some offices in Gujarat accepted affidavit + newspaper ads for minor changes (like school or local records). However, as of recent practice, nearly all government departments (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, RTO, Banks, etc.) insist on Gazette notification as the final and strongest proof of name change. Without Gazette, your application may be rejected or delayed.

    Q2. Do I need Gujarat State Gazette if I already have Central Gazette?

    • Short Answer: No, Central Gazette is valid nationwide. Gujarat Gazette is optional.

    • Detailed Answer: The Central Gazette of India has nationwide recognition. If you already have it, you don’t need Gujarat Gazette separately. However, Gujarat State Gazette is often used by those who only deal with state-level offices and want faster publication. For central government jobs, banks, passports, and migration to other states, the Central Gazette remains superior.

    Q3. Can affidavit be written in Gujarati language?

    • Short Answer: No, Gujarati affidavits are not accepted for Central Gazette.

    • Detailed Answer: For Central Gazette applications, affidavits must be in English or Hindi. While Gujarati affidavits are accepted locally for smaller uses (like school or municipal records), the Central Gazette office in Delhi requires affidavits in English/Hindi only. Submitting in Gujarati will cause rejection.

    Q4. Which newspapers are best for Gujarat ads?

    • Short Answer: Gujarat Samachar, Sandesh, Divya Bhaskar + Times of India Ahmedabad or Indian Express.

    • Detailed Answer: You need one ad in Gujarati and one in English. Widely recognized Gujarati dailies are Gujarat Samachar, Sandesh, and Divya Bhaskar. For English, Times of India Ahmedabad or Indian Express are safest. Using these ensures your clipping is accepted by the Gazette department without queries.

    Q5. How long does it take to get my name in Gazette?

    • Short Answer: 30–45 working days, sometimes 60.

    • Detailed Answer: After submission, the Gazette department verifies your affidavit, ID proofs, and ad clippings. Normal timeline is 30–45 working days, but if backlog is high (e.g., near year-end or due to holidays), it can extend to 60 days. Always keep digital acknowledgment of submission for tracking.

    Documents & Affidavit FAQs

    Q6. What should affidavit contain?

    • Short Answer: Old name, new name, DOB, address, reason, declaration.

    • Detailed Answer: The affidavit must clearly state (1) your old name, (2) your new name, (3) your date of birth, (4) your permanent address, (5) the reason for change (marriage, numerology, spelling correction, etc.), and (6) a declaration that the change is in good faith, not for fraud.

    Q7. What stamp paper value is required in Gujarat?

    • Short Answer: ₹20/₹50 accepted, ₹100 recommended.

    • Detailed Answer: Technically, a ₹20 or ₹50 non-judicial stamp paper is enough. But to avoid objections and for stronger authenticity, lawyers recommend ₹100. If notarized on lower value, Gazette still accepts, but higher denomination reduces risk of rejection.

    Q8. Can affidavit be made before Executive Magistrate instead of Notary?

    • Short Answer: Yes, both valid.

    • Detailed Answer: You may sign before a licensed Notary Public or before an Executive/First-Class Magistrate. Both have equal legal validity for Gazette purposes. In rural Gujarat, magistrate attestation is more common; in cities, notary attestation is faster.

    Q9. Do minors need separate affidavit?

    • Short Answer: Yes, parent/guardian executes it.

    • Detailed Answer: Minors cannot sign affidavits themselves. Parent/guardian must execute it on their behalf, with child’s birth certificate attached. The parent states: “I am father/mother/guardian of [child’s old name], I declare change to [new name].”

    Q10. Can husband/wife change name together in one affidavit?

    • Short Answer: No, separate affidavits required.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette requires one affidavit per applicant. Husband and wife, even if changing surname together, must execute individual affidavits. If not, application will be rejected.

    Newspaper FAQs

    Q11. Do ads have to be exactly the same in English and Gujarati?

    • Short Answer: Yes, word-for-word match.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette staff compare both ads line by line. Any mismatch (like missing middle name, spelling differences) can lead to rejection. Always ensure faithful translation.

    Q12. Can I publish both ads in Gujarati newspapers only?

    • Short Answer: No, one must be English.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette requires one ad in English and one in the local language. Publishing both in Gujarati will cause rejection. Minimum requirement: 1 English + 1 Gujarati.

    Q13. How much do ads cost in Gujarat?

    • Short Answer: ₹400–₹1,200 per ad.

    • Detailed Answer: Cost depends on paper and word count. Classified column ads are cheaper (~₹400–₹600). Display ads in bigger fonts can go up to ₹1,200.

    Q14. Is online newspaper ad enough?

    • Short Answer: No, printed clipping needed.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette demands physical clippings with newspaper name, date, and page visible. Online e-papers or screenshots are not accepted.

    Q15. Should I include father’s name in ad?

    • Short Answer: Yes (compulsory for males; females can use father or husband).

    • Detailed Answer: In Gujarat, Gazette insists that male applicants must mention father’s name in ads. Female applicants may use either father’s or husband’s name. Missing this detail can lead to rejection.

    Gazette FAQs

    Q16. Which part of Gazette is name change published?

    • Short Answer: Part IV – Miscellaneous Notices.

    • Detailed Answer: All name change notifications appear in Part IV, under “Miscellaneous Notices” section of the weekly Gazette PDF.

    Q17. Can I apply to Gujarat eGazette instead of Central?

    • Short Answer: Yes for state purposes; Central needed for national jobs/migration.

    • Detailed Answer: Gujarat eGazette is valid for most state-level uses. However, Central Gazette is mandatory for Central govt jobs, national recruitment exams, and when moving outside Gujarat. If you’re Gujarat-born but now settled in another state, apply through Central Gazette.

    Q18. Is Gazette permanent proof?

    • Short Answer: Yes, never expires.

    • Detailed Answer: Once published, Gazette record is permanent and archived online. It remains valid for life, unlike affidavits or ads which can be questioned.

    Q19. Can I track Gazette status online?

    • Short Answer: Yes, at egazette.gov.in.

    • Detailed Answer: After submission, you get a diary/reference number. Use it to check publication status on the Central Gazette site. Gujarat eGazette also has a search function.

    Q20. Do I get a physical Gazette copy?

    • Short Answer: Usually only PDF, but you can print.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette is published online. You can download the PDF and print multiple copies. If required, notarize prints for authenticity.

    Category-Specific FAQs

    Q21. For marriage cases, is marriage certificate compulsory?  Gujarat Gazette

    • Short Answer: Yes, strongly recommended.

    • Detailed Answer: If name change is after marriage, attaching the marriage certificate makes your case stronger. Without it, Gazette may delay or query the file.

    Q22. For divorce cases, is decree compulsory?

    • Short Answer: Yes, required.

    • Detailed Answer: For reverting to maiden name or changing surname post-divorce, divorce decree is mandatory.

    Q23. For adoption, is adoption deed enough?

    • Short Answer: Yes, if registered. Otherwise court order.

    • Detailed Answer: Registered adoption deed is valid. If deed is not registered, court order is compulsory.

    Q24. For gender identity change, is medical certificate needed?

    • Short Answer: Usually yes.

    • Detailed Answer: Most cases require a doctor’s/psychiatrist’s certificate. Some applications without it have gone through, but safer to include.

    Q25. For religious conversion, do I need religious authority certificate?

    • Short Answer: Yes, compulsory.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette requires a certificate from recognized religious authority confirming your conversion.

    Usage FAQs

    Q26. How do I update Aadhaar in Gujarat?

    • Short Answer: Gazette + affidavit at Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

    • Detailed Answer: Visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra, fill update form, attach Gazette + affidavit + one more ID, biometric verification is done, update takes ~5–7 days.

    Q27. How do I update PAN?

    • Short Answer: Apply online via NSDL with Gazette copy.

    • Detailed Answer: Use NSDL/UTIITSL portal, select “Change/Correction in PAN data,” upload Gazette copy + affidavit. New PAN issued in 15–20 working days.

    Q28. How do I update passport?

    • Short Answer: Gazette + affidavit + supporting docs at PSK.

    • Detailed Answer: Book appointment at PSK, carry Gazette copy, affidavit, and marriage/divorce docs (if relevant). Police verification may follow.

    Q29. Will Gujarat University accept Gazette for marksheet update?

    • Short Answer: Yes, Gazette + affidavit.

    • Detailed Answer: Most universities in Gujarat (GU, GTU, MSU Baroda) accept Gazette + affidavit as sufficient. Some may also ask for newspaper clippings.

    Q30. Will RTO Gujarat update driving licence with Gazette?

    • Short Answer: Yes, Gazette + affidavit.

    • Detailed Answer: Submit Gazette + affidavit at RTO office, they update DL and RC records, also inform insurance provider.

    NRI FAQs

    Q31. Can NRI apply from abroad?  Gujarat Gazette

    • Short Answer: Yes, with apostilled affidavit.

    • Detailed Answer: Affidavit must be notarized locally abroad and apostilled (if Hague convention country) or attested by Indian Embassy. Gazette submission is still at Central level.

    Q32. Can NRI use foreign newspaper ads?

    • Short Answer: Must publish in Indian paper also.

    • Detailed Answer: Even if ad is published abroad, Gazette insists on at least one ad in Gujarati/Indian newspaper for domestic validity.

    Q33. Will Gazette be accepted abroad?

    • Short Answer: Usually yes.

    • Detailed Answer: Universities and embassies abroad usually accept Gazette + apostilled affidavit. Some immigration offices may demand additional local affidavits.

    Q34. Can OCI card be updated with Gazette?

    • Short Answer: Yes.

    • Detailed Answer: OCI/PIO cardholders can update name with Gazette proof, affidavit, and supporting docs.

    Q35. Do NRIs need Indian address proof?

    • Short Answer: Yes, preferably Aadhaar or voter ID.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette requires Indian address proof. NRIs can use Aadhaar, Voter ID, or any utility bill of family in Gujarat.

    Costs & Timelines FAQs

    Q36. What is total cost in Gujarat?

    • Short Answer: ₹2,500–₹7,500.

    • Detailed Answer: Cost depends on affidavit drafting, notary fees, ad publication, and Gazette fee. Simple cases ~₹2,500; full-service agencies charge up to ₹7,500.

    Q37. What is total time?

    • Short Answer: 5–8 weeks.

    • Detailed Answer: From affidavit creation → ads → submission → Gazette publication → updating documents, full cycle takes ~5–8 weeks.

    Q38. Can I fast-track Gazette?

    • Short Answer: No official fast track.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette does not allow priority processing. However, agencies may help file faster and avoid mistakes, saving weeks.

    Q39. How many copies of Gazette should I keep?

    • Short Answer: Multiple printed/notarized.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette is downloadable free, but always print 5–10 notarized copies for banks, universities, passport office, etc.

    Q40. Is Gazette free to download?

    • Short Answer: Yes, from eGazette portal.

    • Detailed Answer: Both Gujarat eGazette and Central Gazette are available as free PDFs. No extra download charges.

    Miscellaneous FAQs

    Q41. Can I change name multiple times?

    • Short Answer: Yes, but may raise suspicion.

    • Detailed Answer: Law permits multiple Gazette entries. But frequent changes (3 or more) may raise red flags in banks, passports, and background checks.

    Q42. Can objections stop my Gazette entry?

    • Short Answer: Rare, but possible.

    • Detailed Answer: Gazette allows objections if someone disputes your intention (fraud, property, debt). Rare, but if raised, court order may be required.

    Q43. Can one family apply together?

    • Short Answer: Separate affidavits, one file.

    • Detailed Answer: Each family member must make individual affidavit, but they can submit together in one Gazette file. Saves time and processing effort.

    Q44. Can I apply if only spelling of father’s name is wrong?

    • Short Answer: Yes, affidavit + Gazette needed.

    • Detailed Answer: Even minor spelling errors in father’s name require affidavit and Gazette correction. This prevents mismatch in PAN, Aadhaar, Passport, etc.


    13. Call to Action

    Changing your name is a once-in-a-lifetime decision. Done properly, Gazette notification ensures:

    • No disputes in future
    • Recognition across all documents
    • Legal validity in India and abroad

    At ChangeOfNameAds, we:

    • Draft affidavits 
    • Publish newspaper ads in Gujarat’s leading dailies
    • Prepare Gazette files as per Delhi office requirements
    • Track and deliver Gazette notification copy