Name Change Process In Tamil Nadu: Documentation, Legal Procedure and Timeline in 2026

The name change process in Tamil Nadu is well-defined, comprising three stages and involving legal documentation and public notification. Whether you are changing your name due to marriage, divorce, personal preference, or correcting an error, following the correct steps is crucial. The entire process fundamentally relies on the creation of a valid Name Change Affidavit. This sworn legal statement serves as the essential first step and the foundation for the subsequent newspaper publications and the final, legally binding Gazette notification in Tamil Nadu.

Name Change Process in Tamil Nadu - Quick Info

Before getting into the specifics, here is a concise overview of the key elements involved in the name change process in Tamil Nadu. This table provides essential information at a glance.[1]

Why People Change Their Names?

Individuals in Tamil Nadu opt for a legal name change for a variety of valid personal and administrative reasons. Understanding these motivations is helpful. [1]

• Marriage: It is common practice for individuals, especially women, to adopt their spouse's surname or change their name after marriage. This often requires following the official name change process after marriage.
• Divorce: Following a separation or divorce, a person might revert to their maiden name or choose a new name entirely. The legal steps for this are detailed in the name change process after divorce.
• Correction of Errors: Discrepancies or spelling mistakes in names on essential documents like birth certificates or educational records necessitate a formal name change to ensure consistency.
• Astrology or Numerology: Some individuals change their names based on astrological or numerological beliefs, hoping to attract better fortune or align with perceived positive energies.
• Adoption: When a child is legally adopted, their name is often changed. Information regarding minors can be found in the guide for name change for minor.
• Personal Preference or Identity: A person may simply wish to adopt a name they prefer or one that better aligns with their gender identity or personal self-expression.

Documents Required for Name Change in Tamil Nadu

To initiate and complete the name change in Tamil Nadu, you must gather a specific set of documents. The notarized affidavit stands as the cornerstone, validating your intent legally.[1]

• Name Change Affidavit: This is the primary document. It must be prepared on non-judicial stamp paper (typically ₹20 value in Tamil Nadu), clearly stating your old name, new name, father's/husband's name, age, and full residential address. It must be sworn before and attested by a Notary Public or Judicial Magistrate.
• Newspaper Publication Proof: Original copies of the advertisements published in two daily newspapers – one in English and one in the local vernacular language (Tamil) – circulated within Tamil Nadu.
• Prescribed Application Form/Proforma: A correctly filled and signed application form provided by the Gazette office, containing all necessary details for the publication.
• Identity Proof: A self-attested copy of a valid government-issued photo ID, such as an Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License. And a self-attested copy of a valid proof of residence in Tamil Nadu, like a recent utility bill, rental agreement, or Aadhaar card.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Two recent photographs are required.
• Digital Copy (CD): For Central Gazette publication, a soft copy of the application details on a CD is often required. State Gazette procedures may vary slightly.

Legal Procedure for Name Change in Tamil Nadu

The official name change process in Tamil Nadu follows a structured, three-step legal pathway. Successfully completing each step, starting with the affidavit, is essential for legal recognition.[1]

• Step 1: Begin by preparing a Name Change Affidavit, your formal declaration under oath. It must include your old and new name, full address, age, and reason for the change. Print it on non-judicial stamp paper (₹10/₹20), sign before a Notary Public or Judicial Magistrate, and have it attested with their seal after ID verification. This notarized affidavit is your legal proof for the next steps. You may also opt for an e-affidavit for convenience.
• Step 2: Next, publish your name change in two newspapers, one English and one Tamil, with wide circulation in Tamil Nadu. The ad should read: “I, [Old Name], residing at [Full Address], have changed my name to [New Name] vide affidavit dated [Date], sworn before Notary Public [Name/Location].”
  Keep the original clippings of both papers, as they are mandatory for the Gazette process.
• Step 3: Finally, apply for publication in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette through the Directorate of Stationery and Printing, Chennai. Submit the notarized affidavit, newspaper clippings, application form, ID/address proof, photos, and fee. After verification, your name will appear in the Gazette’s name change section, and you’ll receive a copy by post as official proof.

Cost and Timeline for Name Change Process in Tamil Nadu

The total cost includes affidavit preparation (stamp paper and notary fees), newspaper advertisement charges (which vary by publication), and the official Gazette publication fee. Overall, the cost typically ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000. The entire procedure, from creating the affidavit to receiving the Gazette notification, usually takes between 3 to 6 weeks, depending on newspaper publication schedules and the processing time at the government press.[1]

Benefits of Using an Affidavit for Name Change

The affidavit is the cornerstone of the name change procedure in Tamil Nadu. Its role is fundamental for several reasons.

• Formal Legal Declaration: An affidavit is a statement made under oath, giving it significant legal validity and making it acceptable evidence in official matters.
• Primary Proof of Intent: It serves as the initial and primary documentary proof required by newspapers and the Gazette office to confirm your decision to change your name.
• Mandatory Procedural Step: Without a properly notarized affidavit, you cannot proceed to the subsequent steps of newspaper publication and Gazette notification.
• Verification and Authenticity: The notarization process verifies the affiant's identity, adding a layer of authenticity and preventing misuse of the name change process.

How can NoBroker’s Affidavit Services Help?

Drafting a legally sound affidavit is the crucial first step in the name change in Tamil Nadu. Any mistake can lead to rejection or delays. NoBroker simplifies this by offering expert assistance in preparing your Name Change Affidavit. Our platform connects you with legal professionals who can draft the affidavit accurately in accordance with Tamil Nadu requirements, ensure it is printed on the correct stamp paper, and even facilitate notarization, providing a convenient and reliable start to your name change journey.