In India, it is common for women to change their surname after marriage—either by adopting their husband’s surname, combining both surnames, or even modifying their first name.
While it’s a personal choice and not legally mandatory, if you do decide to change your name, doing it legally is important for identity consistency in official documents like your Aadhaar, PAN, passport, or bank accounts.
Legally changing your name after marriage is a three-step process involving an affidavit, newspaper publication, and a government notification in the Gazette. It applies to both men and women and is the same regardless of religion or personal law.
Here’s a simple table to understand the overall steps:
| Step | What You Need to Do |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Prepare a name change affidavit on stamp paper, notarised by a lawyer |
| Step 2 | Publish a notice in two newspapers—one in English and one in your local language |
| Step 3 | Apply for Gazette Notification through your state or central Gazette office |
Let’s break it down.
Step 1: Affidavit for Name Change
You need to prepare an affidavit that clearly mentions your current name, your new name after marriage, and the reason for the change (for example, “due to marriage”). This must be printed on non-judicial stamp paper and notarised.
It includes your personal details like age, address, spouse’s name, and the date of marriage.
Step 2: Newspaper Publication
You must publish your name change in two newspapers: one in your regional language and one in English. The format is simple and usually says:
“I, [Old Name], now known as [New Name], have changed my name after marriage and will be known as [New Name] from [Date].”
Keep the newspaper clippings safely—they will be required in the next step.
Step 3: Gazette Notification
For most people, this is the final and most official step. You need to apply for a name change in the official Gazette (Central Gazette if you’re a central govt employee or want it to be more universally valid; State Gazette for others).
Documents usually required are:
- Duly filled application form
- Affidavit
- Newspaper clippings
- Passport-size photos
- Marriage certificate
- ID and address proof
Once approved, your name will be printed in the Gazette and you’ll receive a copy, which serves as permanent legal proof of your name change.
Also, if you’re dealing with other legal changes after separation, our guide on What Are the Legal Rights of a Wife After Separation? might be helpful.
Changing your name legally helps avoid confusion in banking, legal, travel, and identity verification matters. It might seem like a long process, but once done, it saves you years of paperwork troubles.
After publishing your name change in the Gazette, you can begin updating your new name across all official documents. Here’s what you should do next:
- Update your Aadhaar card: Visit the UIDAI website or a local Aadhaar center with your Gazette notification, marriage certificate, and ID proof.
- PAN Card: Use the NSDL PAN correction form to update your name. Upload a copy of your marriage certificate and Gazette notification as supporting documents.
- Passport: Apply for a reissue on the Passport Seva site. You’ll need to submit a self-attested copy of your Gazette entry, marriage certificate, and old passport.
- Bank accounts: Visit your bank with original and photocopies of your ID proof, marriage certificate, and Gazette copy.
- Employer records, insurance, and other IDs: Notify your HR department and insurance providers with proper proof. Most require a copy of your Gazette notification and marriage certificate.
Once your name is officially changed across these documents, it will prevent mismatches when applying for jobs, loans, visas, or legal actions.
While name change after marriage is common, remember that it is entirely voluntary. If you prefer to retain your maiden name or use both names, you are legally free to do so. However, for whichever version you decide to use, consistency across documents is key.
If you’re also navigating marriage or relationship rights, our blog on Can a Live-In Relationship Be Legally Protected? offers helpful context.
FAQs
1. Is it legally compulsory to change my surname after marriage?
No, it’s entirely your choice. There’s no law that requires name change after marriage.
2. Can I use my husband’s surname without Gazette notification?
You can start using it socially, but for official documents, Gazette notification is needed.
3. How long does the Gazette process take?
It usually takes 15–45 days after submission, depending on your state or central Gazette office.
4. Do I need a lawyer to complete the process?
Not necessarily. The process is DIY-friendly, especially if you follow official formats and keep documents ready.
5. Can I revert to my maiden name after divorce?
Yes. You’ll need to go through a similar affidavit + Gazette notification process again.
