Summary
A birth certificate is the first and most fundamental identity document a person possesses. When a name on this document needs to be changed, whether due to a simple error or a personal choice, it requires a formal legal process. The answer to how to change a name on a birth certificate involves a series of structured steps, starting with an affidavit. This legal journey, especially in a place like Delhi where central government processes are anchored, ensures that your new name is officially and permanently recognised.
Process to Change Name in Birth Certificate - Quick Info
The procedure to change name in birth certificate is a formal one that requires careful attention to detail. Here is a quick overview of the key aspects of the process. [1] [3]
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Can Apply | For a minor (below 18 years), the parents or legal guardians must apply. An adult (18 years and above) can apply for their own name change. |
| Age Limit | There is no upper age limit for a name change, but the process and required documents differ slightly for minors and adults. |
| Key Documents | The core documents include the original birth certificate, a notarized affidavit for name change in birth certificate, newspaper publication clippings, and the Gazette notification. |
| Process Duration | The entire end-to-end process, from creating an affidavit to getting the name updated, can take anywhere from two to four months. |
| Where to Apply | The final application to update the birth certificate is submitted to the office of the Registrar of Births and Deaths at the local Municipal Corporation, where the birth was first registered. |
| Cost Involved | The total expense typically ranges from ₹4,000 to ₹7,000. This includes the mandatory government Gazette fee (approx. ₹1,300-₹1,500), costs for newspaper advertisements and the affidavit, plus professional service fees which vary. |
Why do People Change Name in Birth Certificate?
There are numerous personal and practical reasons why an individual might seek a birth certificate name change. It is a significant decision that can impact one's identity across all official records. [1]
- Correction of Spelling Errors: Simple typographical errors made during the initial registration are a common reason for a name correction in a birth certificate.
- Personal Preference: An individual may simply dislike their given name and wish to adopt a new one that better suits their personality.
- Astrological or Numerological Reasons: Many people change their names based on astrological or numerological beliefs, hoping to bring good fortune or positive energy.
- Name Change After Marriage: While more common for other documents, some individuals may wish to formally update their birth certificate to reflect a surname change after marriage.
- Name Change After Divorce: Reverting to a maiden name or choosing a new name after a divorce is a common reason for a legal name change.
- Adoption of a New Identity: In some cases, people change their names to mark a significant life change, adopt a professional name, or reinvent themselves personally.
- Gender Reassignment: Individuals who undergo gender reassignment will legally change their name to align with their gender identity, and updating the birth certificate is a crucial part of this process.
Documents Required for Name Change in Birth Certificate
The documentation required depends on whether you are making a minor correction or a complete legal name change. The following is a comprehensive list. [1]
Before initiating the legal process, gather the following essential documents:
- The Original Birth Certificate of the applicant. The original discharge summary from the hospital where the birth took place can be a valuable supporting document.
- Parents’ Identity Proof in case of the minor and the applicant’s ID proof, which has their photo and address.
- For adults, academic records can serve as proof of the old name.
- A sworn legal document that is the cornerstone of the name change process.
- Original clippings of the name change advertisement published in two newspapers.
- The official copy of the notification published in the Gazette of India.
Legal Procedure to Change Name in Birth Certificate
You must complete a three-step legal process to change name in birth certificate. This ensures the Government of India recognises the change. [2]
Step 1: Create a Notarised Affidavit
The very first step is to create an affidavit for name change in birth certificate. This is a legal document formally declaring your intention to change your name. The affidavit must contain:
- Your old name and your new name.
- Your full residential address.
- A declaration stating that your new name will be known to you in all future matters.
- The reason for the name change.
This affidavit must be printed on a non-judicial stamp paper and signed in the presence of a Notary Public. For convenience, you can also explore options for an e-affidavit.
Step 2: Publish an Advertisement in Newspapers
The next step is to announce your name change publicly. This is done by placing an advertisement in two local newspapers:
- One in a leading English daily newspaper.
- One in a leading regional language newspaper of your state.
The advertisement should be concise and contain your old name, new name, full address, and the date of the affidavit. You must keep original copies of these newspaper clippings as they are required for the next step.
Step 3: Get the Name Change Published in the Gazette of India
This is the most critical step, as the Gazette notification is the official proof of your name change recognised by the government. Your application must include:
- The original notarised affidavit.
- The original newspaper clippings.
- A completed and signed application form in the prescribed format.
- Copies of your identity and address proof.
- A C.D. containing a soft copy of your application.
- The requisite government fee.
Once your application is processed, your name change will be published in the official Gazette of India.
Step 4: Update the Name at the Municipal Corporation
With the official Gazette notification in hand, you can now approach the Municipal Corporation or the Registrar of Births and Deaths where your birth was initially registered. You will need to submit an application for name change in birth certificate along with a copy of the Gazette notification, the original birth certificate, and other supporting documents. The authorities will then verify the documents and issue a new or updated birth certificate with the changed name.
Online Procedure Name Correction in Birth Certificate
For minor corrections, many states now offer an online name correction in birth certificate facility. So if you’re wondering how to change name in birth certificate online, here are the steps:
- Visit the official website of your state’s Civil Registration or Municipal Corporation.
- Search for the service related to "Birth Certificate Correction" or "Update."
- Register on the portal and fill out the online correction form with the correct details.
- Upload clear, scanned copies of the required documents, such as the old birth certificate and parents' IDs.
- Pay the necessary fees through the online payment gateway.
- Apply and save the acknowledgement receipt, which will contain an application number for tracking its status.
Cost and Timeline for Name Change Process in Delhi
The government fee for the Gazette notification is approximately ₹1,300 to ₹1,500 for an adult. Professional service charges can vary, often starting from ₹1,500. The entire process, from creating the affidavit to the final publication in the Gazette of India, typically takes about 4 to 8 weeks to complete. [3]
Benefits of Using an Affidavit for Name Change in the Birth Certificate
The affidavit is not just a formality; it is the legal foundation of your name change request.
- It acts as your sworn declaration, giving legal weight to your intention.
- It is the primary document required by newspaper agencies and the Department of Publication.
- It establishes a clear and undeniable link between your old and new identities.
- A well-drafted affidavit prevents future legal complications or rejections during the process.
Documents You Must Update After Legally Changing Your Name in Birth Certificate
Once you successfully update name in birth certificate, you must update all your other important documents to reflect the new name. [1]
- Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID Card, Driving License or any legal document
- Bank accounts and credit cards
- Insurance policies
- Property and investment documents
- Educational certificates
How NoBroker Can Help With Affidavit Services
The procedure to change name in birth certificate begins with a perfectly drafted affidavit. NoBroker offers expert legal services to help you prepare a legally compliant and notarized affidavit for your name change. Our streamlined process ensures that you get this crucial document prepared accurately and quickly, setting a smooth foundation for the rest of your name change journey.
