Quick answer
A name change affidavit in India is a formal declaration that records a person’s existing name and proposed or adopted new name. Depending on the purpose, the affidavit may support an application to change a name or update a record, but the receiving authority determines which documents it accepts.
If you need a name change affidavit format, start by identifying the document you intend to update. A spelling correction, a change of surname after marriage, a complete name change and an application for Gazette publication can involve different requirements.
This guide provides a general sample affidavit, explains how to prepare it, and links to official guidance for Gazette publication, Aadhaar and passport name changes.
What Is a Name Change Affidavit?
A name change affidavit is a written declaration made under oath or affirmation before an authorised person, following the applicable procedure. It records the declarant’s identity and the statement they are making about their name.
For example, a person whose existing records show “Rahul Kumar” may wish to adopt “Rahul Sharma”. A declaration can identify the existing name and the proposed name, but the declaration alone does not guarantee that every government department will accept the change.
A name change affidavit does not automatically update Aadhaar, PAN, a passport, educational certificates or bank records. Each authority may require its own application and supporting evidence.
Name Change Affidavit Format in India
The following sample is a general drafting reference, not a universally prescribed government form. Before using it, check whether the authority receiving your application requires a particular affidavit, undertaking, deed poll or other declaration.
Sample affidavit for change of name
AFFIDAVIT FOR CHANGE OF NAME
I, [FULL NAME AS PER EXISTING RECORDS], son/daughter of [FATHER’S NAME] or spouse of [SPOUSE’S NAME, WHERE APPLICABLE], aged [AGE] years, residing at [COMPLETE RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS], do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as follows:
- That my existing name is [OLD FULL NAME], as recorded in my relevant documents.
- That I have adopted / intend to adopt the name [NEW FULL NAME] in place of my existing name, as applicable to the purpose of this declaration.
- That my former name, [OLD FULL NAME], and my proposed or adopted name, [NEW FULL NAME], refer to the same individual, namely myself.
- That the other personal particulars stated in my supporting documents remain unchanged, except for any separate correction or change expressly required.
- That I am making this declaration for [STATE THE ACTUAL PURPOSE OF THE DECLARATION].
- That the statements made in this declaration are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
DEPONENT
Name: [NAME AS REQUIRED BY THE APPLICABLE FORMAT]
Signature: ______________________
Place: [CITY]
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]
Verification
I, [FULL NAME], the above-named deponent, verify that the contents of this declaration are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
Verified at [CITY] on [DATE].
Signature of Deponent: ______________________
Attestation: Complete this section according to the applicable execution and attestation requirements.
Before using this sample
- Select wording that accurately describes whether the name has already been adopted or is being proposed.
- Replace every placeholder with the correct information.
- Do not include a statement about newspaper publication or Gazette publication unless it is factually accurate.
- Confirm whether the receiving authority requires a prescribed format instead of this general sample.
- Verify the applicable stamp-paper and attestation requirements before executing the document.
The sample is intended to help readers understand the structure of a declaration. It is not a substitute for the prescribed documentation required by a particular government authority.
What Details Should a Name Change Affidavit Include?
A name change affidavit should identify the person making the declaration and state clearly which name is being changed or corrected.
| Detail | What to include |
|---|---|
| Existing name | The full name recorded in the relevant existing documents |
| Proposed or adopted name | The exact spelling of the new name |
| Parent or spouse details | Relevant relationship details, where required |
| Age and address | The particulars required by the applicable format |
| Purpose | The actual reason for making the declaration, where required |
| Declaration | A clear statement connecting the existing and proposed names |
| Place and date | The execution details |
| Signature | The signature required by the applicable procedure |
| Verification and attestation | The required verification and attestation details |
The exact fields depend on the document’s intended use. If a government authority provides a prescribed format, use that format instead of assuming that every field in a general sample is mandatory.
When Do You Need a Name Change Affidavit?
The appropriate document depends on why the name is changing and which record or application is involved. For an overview of the different situations, see 12 common reasons for name change in India.
Complete name change
If you want to adopt a different first name, surname or full name, you may need a declaration and additional supporting documents.
If you intend to obtain a Gazette notification, check the relevant Gazette authority’s current procedure. A general affidavit should not be assumed to satisfy every requirement of that application.
Spelling correction
A spelling correction involves fixing an incorrect entry in a record. A formal name change involves adopting a different name. The two situations are not necessarily processed in the same way.
For example, if your birth certificate contains a spelling error but your other documents use the correct spelling, ask the issuing authority which correction procedure and evidence it accepts before preparing a new-name declaration.
Surname change after marriage
If you want to adopt your spouse’s surname, check the requirements of each authority where you intend to update your name. A marriage certificate may be relevant to some applications, but the evidence required depends on the specific record and procedure.
Reverting to a previous surname
If you want to resume a previous surname, determine whether supporting documents relating to your circumstances are required. The Department of Publication maintains separate guidance for particular surname-related cases.
Name change for a minor
A minor’s name change may involve a parent or guardian and additional documentation. Use the applicable minor-specific procedure rather than assuming that an adult affidavit format is sufficient. See Gazette name change for a minor child.
The Department of Publication’s official name-change guidelines provide separate documents for adults, minors and other categories.
How to Prepare a Name Change Affidavit
Step 1: Identify the purpose
Determine whether you are correcting a spelling error, adopting a different name, changing a surname or preparing documentation for Gazette publication. Identify the authority that will receive the document.
Step 2: Confirm the required format
Ask the receiving authority whether it accepts a general affidavit or requires a prescribed declaration.
For a Central Gazette of India application, review the Department of Publication’s official guidelines and select the guidance that matches your applicant category.
Step 3: Verify the personal details
Check the existing name, proposed name, address and other requested particulars against the relevant supporting documents. Correct discrepancies before signing.
Step 4: Confirm stamp-paper and attestation requirements
Do not assume that one stamp-paper denomination or attestation method applies to every name change affidavit throughout India. Verify the requirements for your jurisdiction and intended use with the receiving authority or an appropriately qualified professional.
Step 5: Review the document before execution
Check that all required fields are complete, the names are consistent and the statements accurately describe your circumstances. Do not include unsupported claims about completed publication or official approval.
Step 6: Keep a copy
Retain a secure copy of the executed document and the supporting paperwork. Follow the receiving authority’s instructions about the submission and retention of originals.
Is a Name Change Affidavit Enough for Gazette Publication?
A general affidavit alone should not be assumed to complete a Gazette application. The required documents depend on the relevant Gazette authority, applicant category and publication procedure.
The Department of Publication publishes specific guidance for adult name changes through the Central Gazette of India. Its adult guidelines identify an undertaking and other prescribed application materials. The applicable checklist may also require newspaper publication, photographs, identity proof, a request letter and payment of the prescribed fee.
Check the current official guidelines before preparing or submitting an application. Do not substitute this article’s general affidavit sample for a prescribed undertaking or another required document.
Official guidance: Department of Publication — Change of Name / Public Notices. For the full sequence, see our Gazette name change process guide and the documents required checklist.
Name Change Affidavit vs Gazette Notification
A name change affidavit and a Gazette notification serve different purposes.
| Question | Name change affidavit | Gazette notification |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | A formal declaration by an individual | A notice published through the applicable government Gazette process |
| What does it do? | Records the statements made by the declarant | Provides a published record of the notification |
| Is it automatically accepted everywhere? | No | No; the receiving authority’s rules still apply |
| Does it automatically update Aadhaar or passport records? | No | No; the relevant record-update procedure must still be followed |
The distinction matters because preparing a declaration does not establish that a Gazette application has been completed, and publication does not automatically update every identity record.
Can You Change Your Aadhaar Name Using Only an Affidavit?
Not in every situation. UIDAI specifies Gazette-related documentation for certain first-name and full-name changes, alongside supporting proof of the old name.
The applicable process depends on the type of change and the current UIDAI requirements. Before applying, check the official UIDAI enrolment and update guidance.
A Gazette notification does not automatically update Aadhaar. You must complete the applicable Aadhaar update process separately.
Can You Change Your Passport Name Using Only an Affidavit?
Do not assume that an affidavit alone is sufficient for a passport name change. Passport Seva applies documentary requirements that depend on the circumstances and type of change.
The Ministry of External Affairs issued a memorandum dated 15 April 2026 that updated passport name-change guidance to recognise the Gazette of India (Central Government), alongside the concerned State Government Gazette and the existing newspaper route, as applicable.
Check the current official Passport Seva guidance and the applicable name-change instructions before submitting your application. Requirements for a complete name change may differ from those for a surname change following marriage or another specific circumstance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using a general sample without checking the requirements
A template may help you draft a declaration but may not satisfy a prescribed government format.
What to do: Confirm the receiving authority’s requirements before executing the document.
Assuming a fixed stamp-paper value applies everywhere
Stamp-paper and execution requirements should be verified for the document’s jurisdiction and purpose.
What to do: Confirm the applicable requirements before purchasing stamp paper.
Treating an affidavit as a completed name change
An affidavit does not automatically complete a Gazette application or update every identity record.
What to do: List the separate procedures required for your intended outcome.
Confusing a spelling correction with a name change
Correcting an inaccurate record and adopting a different name may involve different procedures.
What to do: Identify the source of the discrepancy and follow the issuing authority’s correction process where applicable.
Including inaccurate statements in the declaration
A declaration should reflect the actual facts of your case. Do not state that newspaper advertisements were published or Gazette notification was completed unless that is true.
What to do: Verify every statement before signing.
Name Change Documentation Assistance from NameChangeDesk
NameChangeDesk provides name-change-related guidance and documentation assistance. The appropriate service depends on the applicant’s circumstances and the scope of the selected service.
Before purchasing assistance, confirm which documents are included, whether drafting or review is covered, which government or third-party charges are separate, and which steps remain your responsibility.
NameChangeDesk is a private service platform, not a government department or Gazette authority. The relevant authority remains responsible for its application decisions and publication process.
Need help identifying the documents for your case? See how it works or contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about name-change documentation in India. It is not legal advice and does not guarantee acceptance of a particular affidavit. Requirements may vary by authority, state, applicant category and intended use. Consult the latest official instructions before preparing or submitting documents.
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This article is general information, not legal advice. NameChangeDesk is a private service and is not affiliated with the Government of India or any state authority.