Changing your name is an important life decision, and in Bihar, thousands of people apply for it every year due to spelling errors in documents, marriage, divorce, adoption, religious reasons, or simply to start fresh. At first, the procedure may seem confusing because it involves affidavit preparation, newspaper publication, payment of Gazette fees, and official verification.
The good news is that the Gazette Name Change Process in Bihar is simple, legal, and fully recognized across India if done correctly. Once your new name is published in the Gazette, it becomes valid proof to update Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, bank records, and educational certificates. In this guide, we will explain the complete process, required documents, fees, and timelines so you can change your name in Bihar without stress.
What is Gazette Name Change in Bihar?
The Gazette of India is the official journal published by the Government of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Once your new name is published in the Gazette, it becomes permanent legal proof of your identity.
This means:
- Your new name will be valid on Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Driving License, Voter ID, and bank accounts.
- It will be recognized by courts, government departments, and even abroad.
- It avoids disputes in property, inheritance, or legal matters.
- It remains as a permanent government record that can be accessed anytime.
So, Gazette notification is not just a formality, it is the most important and final step in the name change process in Bihar.
Why is Gazette Publication Important?
Many applicants in Bihar stop after making an affidavit or publishing a newspaper ad. But without Gazette publication, the name change is not officially complete. Gazette notification is essential because:
- It provides strong legal proof of your identity.
- It allows smooth updation of all government IDs.
- It prevents future legal disputes.
- It ensures nationwide and international recognition.
Step-by-Step Name Change Process in Bihar
Here is the complete legal process explained in detail:
Step 1: Prepare an Affidavit
- Draft an affidavit on stamp paper with your old name, new name, father’s/mother’s name, address, date of birth, and reason for change.
- Get it notarized or attested by a first-class magistrate.
- This affidavit is the legal declaration of your name change.
Step 2: Publish Newspaper Advertisement
- Publish your name change in one Hindi and one English newspaper in Bihar.
- The ad must clearly mention both your old and new names.
- This serves as a public announcement and ensures transparency.
Step 3: Pay Gazette Fee & Prepare CD
- Deposit the prescribed Gazette fee through challan.
- Prepare a digital copy (CD/DVD) of your name change details as per government format.
- This is a mandatory requirement for Gazette submission.
Step 4: Submit Application
Submit your complete file to the Gazette office in Patna or New Delhi. The file should include:
- Notarized affidavit
- Newspaper advertisements
- Gazette fee challan receipt
- ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, Passport)
- Address proof (utility bill, ration card, driving license)
- Passport-size photographs
- CD/DVD with application details
Step 5: Gazette Notification
- After the Gazette office verifies your application, your new name is officially published in Part IV of the Gazette of India.
- This publication acts as final and permanent proof of your new identity, legally valid across India.
- Once published, you can download the Gazette copy directly from the official portal egazette.gov.in.
- With this document, you can easily update your name in Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, bank records, and educational certificates.
Quick Summary Table of Name Change Process in Bihar
| Step | What to Do | Who Helps |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare affidavit with old & new name details | Notary / Legal Expert |
| 2 | Publish ads in one Hindi & one English newspaper | Applicant / Consultant |
| 3 | Pay Gazette fee (challan) & prepare CD | Applicant / Consultant |
| 4 | Submit affidavit, ads, challan, ID proof, photos, and CD | Applicant / Consultant |
| 5 | Gazette publishes your new name in Part IV | Gazette Department |
Documents Required for Name Change in Bihar
Before applying, keep these documents ready:
- Duly signed affidavit of name change
- Newspaper advertisements (2 copies)
- Aadhaar card, PAN card, or Passport as ID proof
- Address proof (Driving License, Utility Bill, Voter ID, Rental Agreement)
- Two passport-size photographs
- Government challan receipt
- Soft copy (CD) of your name change details
Documents Checklist
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Affidavit | Legal declaration of name change |
| Newspaper Ads | Public announcement |
| ID Proof | Verification of identity |
| Address Proof | Proof of residence |
| Photographs | Gazette records |
| Govt Challan | Proof of fee payment |
| CD | Required format for Gazette |
Time and Fees for Gazette Name Change in Bihar
| Item | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Affidavit | 1 day | ₹200 – ₹500 |
| Newspaper Ads | 2–3 days | ₹800 – ₹1500 |
| Govt Fees & CD | 1 day | ₹1100 – ₹1700 |
| Gazette Publication | 30–45 days | Included in fee |
| Total | 45–60 days | ₹2000 – ₹4000 (approx.) |
Note: Costs may vary depending on newspaper choice and consultant charges.
Real-Life Example from Bihar
Priya, a student from Patna, had a spelling mistake in her 10th certificate. With the help of MakeMyGazette, she successfully completed the Gazette Name Change Process in Bihar in just a few steps:
- Prepared a legal affidavit with old and new names in one day.
- Published advertisements in one Hindi and one English newspaper.
- Paid the Gazette challan and prepared the required CD.
- Submitted the complete file (affidavit, ads, challan, ID proof, photos, and CD) at the Gazette office.
- Within 45 days, her corrected name was officially published in the Gazette of India.
Result: Priya can now use her updated name in all her educational certificates and government records without any issues.
Common Problems Faced in Bihar
Applicants often face:
- Incorrect affidavit format
- Rejection due to missing documents
- Delay in submission or approval
- Confusion about government challan and CD preparation
How to Avoid Mistakes
- Use the correct legal affidavit format
- Publish ads only in recognized newspapers
- Submit all documents together to avoid rejection
- Take help from experts if unsure about the process
Why Choose Make My Gazette for Name Change in Bihar?
The name change process may look simple on paper, but in reality, it requires precise formats, strict rules, and multiple steps. A single mistake can delay or even reject your case.
That’s why many people in Bihar choose Make My Gazette:
- Expert affidavit drafting in correct legal format.
- Newspaper ads arranged in Hindi + English.
- CD and challan prepared without errors.
- Complete file submission to Gazette office.
- Regular updates about your application status.
- Gazette PDF sent to your email, with physical copy (Premium Plan).
👉 Start your name change in Bihar today: https://makemygazette.com
Conclusion
The Gazette Name Change Process in Bihar is a legal and permanent way to update your identity. From affidavit preparation to Gazette publication, each step is important to make your new name official.
If you want a smooth and error-free process, you can complete it yourself by carefully following the steps, or take the help of trusted service providers like Make My Gazette. Either way, once your new name is published in the Gazette, it is valid everywhere across India.
Changing your name is not just paperwork—it is about your identity and future. Do it carefully, and start your new journey with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the legal name change process in Bihar?
The legal name change process in Bihar includes preparing an affidavit, publishing a newspaper advertisement, and applying for Gazette notification. Once your new name is published in the Gazette of India, it becomes official proof valid across all government IDs and documents.
Q2. How much does it cost to change your name in Bihar?
The cost of a name change in Bihar is around ₹2000–₹4000. This includes affidavit charges (₹200–₹500), newspaper ads (₹800–₹1500), and Gazette fees (₹1100–₹1700). Additional consultant service charges may apply if you take professional help.
Q3. How long does it take to change name in Bihar?
The Gazette name change process in Bihar takes about 45–60 days. This includes time for affidavit preparation, newspaper publication, government fee submission, and Gazette notification. Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or incorrectly formatted.
Q4. Is Gazette notification mandatory for name change in Bihar?
Yes, Gazette notification is mandatory for a legal name change in Bihar. Without Gazette publication, your new name will not be accepted by government authorities for Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, or other official updates.
Q5. Which documents are required for name change in Bihar?
The required documents for name change in Bihar include: affidavit of name change, two newspaper ads, Aadhaar or PAN card, address proof, passport-size photographs, government challan receipt, and a CD with application details in the required format.
Q6. Can I change my child’s name in Bihar legally?
Yes, parents can change their child’s name in Bihar through the same process. An affidavit must be prepared by the parents or guardians, followed by newspaper ads and Gazette publication. Once approved, the new name can be updated on school and government records.
Q7. Can NRIs apply for name change in Bihar?
Yes, NRIs can apply for a name change in Bihar. They need to provide a valid passport copy, overseas address proof, notarized affidavit, and required documents. The application can be submitted through a representative or professional consultant in India.
Q8. How do I update my name on Aadhaar, PAN, and Passport after Gazette in Bihar?
Once your new name is published in the Gazette, submit the Gazette notification along with your application for Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, or other ID updates. Government authorities accept the Gazette as final legal proof of identity change.
Q9. Can I change my surname only in Bihar?
Yes, you can change only your surname in Bihar by following the Gazette name change process. An affidavit stating the change, newspaper advertisements, and Gazette notification are required. Once published, the new surname is valid on all legal documents.
Q10. What are common reasons for name change in Bihar?
People in Bihar change their name due to spelling mistakes in certificates, marriage, divorce, adoption, astrology, religious conversion, or personal preference. Regardless of the reason, the Gazette name change process ensures legal recognition everywhere in India.