Women often ask whether they must change name or surnames after marriage. The law of Indian states that no one is required to change their name after marriage, regardless of the expectations of society.
Women can make this decision for themselves if they are strong and independent. As for when she should legally change her name, that is up to her. Women can decide if they want to continue their relationship post-marriage
- Changing her name completely is something she wants to do
- It is just a matter of replacing her surname with the surname of her husband
- The name she was born with will remain and her husband’s name will be added to it.
- Simply leave her name alone.
You can follow these simple steps if you have decided to change your name.
What to do after you get married if you want to change your name
1. Affidavit preparation
Adults make affidavits as declarations. An affidavit will be needed for someone who wishes to change their name. Here are the details that must be included in the affidavit.
- Currently used full name
- Name / surname proposed
- The name of the spouse
- Address at present
- Photocopy of the marriage certificate
- A statement confirming the accuracy of the information provided.
Printing and signing the affidavit on 10 stamp paper is then required.
2. Affidavit of Notarization
Notaries are required for this. As a notary, you can witness the signatures of documents on behalf of the government. An embassy can notarize it for you if you reside abroad.
3. Advertisement regarding the change of name
A notary must then witness the publication of an official declaration. In both the local and English languages, the declaration states that you have changed your name. Original newspaper ads should be saved for future reference.
Consider scanning the advertisements as well. This type of advertisement has its own section in newspapers. If you need advice on the format, you can contact the newspaper agency.
4. Publication in the Gazette
India’s Gazette of India is one of the official publications of the government. To apply, you must go to the Ministry of Urban Development’s Department of Publication.
You will need to submit the following documents in order to appear in the Gazette:
- The Controller of Publication, Department of Publication, must provide you with two copies of the “Deed Changing Surname Form”
- Newspaper advertisements in two original copies
- A letter requesting a name change from the Secretary
- The affidavit must be attested
- Photographs with attestations
- Please provide proof of your address and ID. In the affidavit and newspaper advertisements, it should be mentioned which address the proof should have.
Gazettes are not mandatory for people who are not government employees or who are not taking government examinations. You might need the gazette publication to update your new name in bank records, so it’s better to get it updated in the gazette.
How do we proceed?
You will legally change your name in the official gazette within 15-30 days of your application being accepted. As soon as your name is changed, it must appear on all your ID proofs, bank records, etc.
Would you like someone to help you?
The task seems lengthy and overwhelming, although it can be accomplished by yourself. With Vakilsearch, you can easily and legally change your name within a short time frame in India.
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