Name Change Procedure In Delhi: Documentation, Legal Procedure and Benefits in 2026

Changing your name is a significant legal step that formally updates your identity across all official records. The name change procedure in Delhi is a structured, three-part process that ensures your new name is legally recognized. Whether due to marriage, divorce, or personal choice, it is crucial to follow the correct steps. The entire process hinges on a foundational legal document: the affidavit. This sworn declaration is the first and most critical step, serving as the legal basis for all subsequent actions, including newspaper publications and the final Gazette notification that makes your name change official.

Name Change Process in Delhi - Quick Info

Before diving into the detailed steps, here is a quick overview of the key aspects of the name change process in Delhi.

Why People Change Their Names?

There are numerous personal and legal reasons why an individual might opt for a Delhi name change.

• Marriage: Many individuals, particularly women, choose to adopt their spouse's surname or add it to their own after marriage. You can learn more about the specific requirements in the name change process after marriage.
• Divorce: After a divorce, an individual may wish to revert to their maiden name or choose a new name. The legal steps are outlined in the name change process after divorce.
• Correction of Errors: Sometimes, a name is misspelled on official documents like birth certificates or educational degrees. A legal name change is required to rectify these errors across all records.
• Numerology or Astrology: Many people change their names based on numerological or astrological beliefs, often involving a change in spelling, to bring good fortune or positive energy.
• Adoption: When a child is legally adopted, their name is often changed to reflect their new family identity. This is a formal part of the adoption process.
• Personal Preference: An individual may simply dislike their given name and wish to adopt a new one that better reflects their personality or identity. This is a perfectly valid reason for a legal name change.

Documents Required for Name Change in Delhi

To ensure a smooth process, having all the necessary documents in order is essential. The notarized affidavit is the cornerstone of your application, serving as the primary legal evidence for the change.[1]

• Name Change Affidavit: This is a sworn statement made by the person changing their name (known as the affiant) declaring their old name, new name, and address. It must be printed on non-judicial stamp paper and notarized by a certified Notary Public.
• Newspaper Publication Clippings: You will need the original copies of the name change advertisements published in two newspapers, one in an English daily and another in a local language daily circulated in Delhi.
• Prescribed Application Form: A duly filled and signed application form for the Gazette publication, which includes all necessary details and declarations.
• Identity and Address Proof: Self-attested copies of your valid ID and address proof, such as an Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, or driving license.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs are required for the application form and other official records.
• Digital CD: A compact disc (CD) containing a soft copy of the application in the prescribed format, without any signatures, as required by the Department of Publication.

Legal Procedure for Name Change in Delhi

The name change service in Delhi follows a clear, three-step legal procedure. Each step builds upon the previous one, with the affidavit being the mandatory starting point.

• Step 1: Create a name change affidavit on ₹10–₹20 non-judicial stamp paper declaring your old and new name, father’s/husband’s name, and full address. Sign it before a Notary Public, who verifies and attests it. You can also opt for an e-affidavit for convenience. You can also explore options for an e-affidavit for added convenience.
• Step 2: After notarizing your affidavit, publish your name change in two local newspapers, one in English and one in Hindi. The ad should mention your old and new names, full address, and affidavit date. Keep the original clippings for future verification and official use.
• Step 3: Gazette Notification: The final step is publishing your name change in the Gazette of India. Apply to the Department of Publication, Civil Lines, Delhi, with your notarized affidavit, newspaper clippings, application form, digital CD, and fee. After verification, your name change appears in the Official e-Gazette.

Cost and Timeline for Name Change Process in Delhi

The overall cost and time required for a name change in Delhi can vary slightly, but here is a general estimate to help you plan.

• Cost: The total expense typically ranges between ₹3,000 and ₹5,000. This includes the cost of stamp paper and notary fees for the affidavit (approx. ₹500), the cost of newspaper advertisements (approx. ₹1,000 - ₹3,000 depending on the newspapers), and the official fee for Gazette publication (approx. ₹1,100 - ₹1,700).
• Timeline: The entire process, from drafting the affidavit to the final publication in the name change in the gazette Delhi, usually takes about 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the processing time at the Department of Publication.

Benefits of Using an Affidavit for Name Change

The affidavit is not just a piece of paper; it is the legal foundation of your entire name change process. Its importance cannot be overstated.

• An affidavit is a sworn statement made under oath, which gives it significant legal weight and credibility in the eyes of the law and government authorities.
• The notarized affidavit is the primary proof of your decision to change your name. It is the first document that all other government agencies will ask for when you apply to update your records.
• You cannot proceed with the newspaper publication or the Gazette notification without a valid, notarized affidavit. This step is non-negotiable in the official procedure.
• The process of notarization, where a public officer verifies your identity, adds a layer of authenticity to your declaration, preventing fraudulent claims.

Documents You Must Update After Legally Changing Your Name

The process is not yet complete once your name change is published in the Gazette of India. You must use this Gazette notification to update your name on other important documents.

• PAN Card
• Aadhaar Card
• Passport
• Voter ID Card
• Driving License
• All Bank Accounts
• Insurance Policies
• Property Documents
• Educational Certificates and Degrees

How NoBroker Can Help With Affidavit Services

The name change journey begins with a perfectly drafted and notarized affidavit. Any error in this first step can cause delays and complications in the entire process. NoBroker simplifies this crucial first step by offering convenient online affidavit and notary services. We can help you draft a legally compliant Name change affidavit in Delhi from the comfort of your home, ensuring it meets all the required standards and is ready for the subsequent steps of your name change procedure.

Know More About the State-Wise Name Change Process

• Name Change in India
• Name Change in Karnataka
• Name Change in Tamil Nadu
• Name Change in Maharashtra