Gazette Name Change for Passport Purposes

A passport is one of the most important identity documents for Indian citizens. It is used not only for travel but also for jobs, visas, and as proof of identity in many government and private institutions. If your name on the passport does not match your Aadhaar, PAN, or other records, it can create serious issues.

The most reliable way to update your name legally in a passport is through a Gazette of India notification. Gazette publication makes your name change legally valid and accepted by all authorities, including the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and Ministry of External Affairs.

This blog will guide you through the complete process of Gazette name change for passport purposes, including documents, procedure, cost, time, and FAQs.

Why Is Gazette Name Change Important for Passports?

Legal Proof: Passport offices require Gazette notification as an official document to process name changes.
Avoid Rejection: Without Gazette proof, your application for re-issue of passport with a new name may be rejected.
For Visa & Immigration: Foreign embassies and visa offices check Gazette notifications for verification.
Permanent Record: Gazette notification remains a lifelong government record of your new name.

👉 Example: If Ritu Sharma changes her surname to Ritu Verma after marriage, she must get a gazette notification before applying for a passport update.

Common Reasons for Name Change in Passport

After marriage (surname change).
After divorce (restoring maiden name).
Spelling errors in passport or supporting documents.
Numerology/astrology-based name changes.
After adoption or family changes.

Gender transition requiring a new name.

Who Needs Gazette Notification for Passport Name Change?

Any Indian citizen applying for a fresh passport with a new name.
Citizens requesting re-issue of passport due to name change.
People facing mismatches between Aadhaar, PAN, and passport.

Step-by-Step Process; Gazette Name Change for Passport

Step 1: Prepare a Name Change Affidavit

Draft on non-judicial stamp paper.
Mention:
- Old name and new name
- Date of birth
- Father’s/spouse’s name
- Reason for name change
Get it attested by a notary or first-class magistrate.

Step 2: Publish Newspaper Advertisement

Publish in two newspapers (one English, one regional language).
Include the old name, the new name, and the date of change.
Preserve original cuttings for records.

Step 3: Apply for Gazette Notification

Submit documents to the Department of Publication, New Delhi, or respective State Gazette office.
Required documents:
- Affidavit
- Newspaper ads
- Passport copy
- Aadhaar/PAN copies
- Passport-size photos
- Filled Gazette application form
Pay the Gazette fee.

Step 4: Gazette Publication

Once verified, your name will be published in the Official Gazette of India.
Download/collect a Gazette copy for submission to Passport Seva Kendra.

Step 5: Apply for Passport Re-Issue with New Name

Book an appointment at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
Carry the original Gazette copy along with other supporting documents.
The passport office will issue a new passport with the updated name.

Documents Required for Gazette Name Change for Passport

Affidavit of name change
Newspaper advertisements (two copies)
Aadhaar card, PAN card
Old passport copy (first & last page)
Passport-size photos
Gazette application form with signature

Timeframe:

Gazette process: 30–60 days

Key Points to Remember

Gazette notification is mandatory for major name changes (surname, first name, or full name).
For minor spelling corrections, sometimes self-declaration with school/college certificates may work, but the Gazette is still safer.
Without Gazette proof, your passport application may face delays or rejection.

Example Scenario

Rohit Mehta finds his name misspelt as Rohith Mehta in Aadhaar and wants to correct his passport before applying for a US visa. He applies for Gazette notification, updates his Aadhaar, and then successfully reissues his passport with the correct spelling.