How to Change Name in Birth Certificate in India

A birth certificate is one of the most important documents in a person’s life. It is the first legal identity proof issued by the government and contains vital details like name, date of birth, place of birth, and parents’ names. This certificate is required for Aadhaar card, school admission, passport, driving licence, government job, visa, and many other legal documents.

Sometimes, the name printed on a birth certificate may be incorrect, incomplete, or misspelled. In such cases, it becomes important to apply for a correction or name change in birth certificate. This guide explains the complete process — whether you want to correct a minor spelling mistake or legally change the name in your birth certificate, both online and offline.

What is Name Correction in a Birth Certificate?

Name correction in a birth certificate refers to fixing minor errors in the name recorded in the official birth record. These mistakes are usually spelling errors, missing letters, typing errors, or cases where the name was not entered at the time of birth registration. This process does not involve changing the full name or adopting a new name — it only corrects the incorrect details already printed.

Common Examples of Name Correction:

“Aarav” printed as “Arav”
“Sharma” written as “Sharm”
Name section left blank during birth registration

Name correction is important because a birth certificate is a primary identity and proof-of-birth document. Any difference in your name on the birth certificate and other documents (Aadhaar, PAN Card, Passport, School Records, etc.) can cause legal or verification issues in the future.

Difference Between Name Correction and Name Change in Birth Certificate

Understanding the difference between name correction and name change is very important before applying. Both are different legal processes with different requirements.

Point	Name Correction	Name Change
Meaning	Fixing small spelling mistakes, typing errors, or missing letters in the name.	Changing the complete name, adding a new surname, middle name, or adopting a new identity.
Type of Change	Minor modification	Major modification
Documents Required	Basic ID proofs like Aadhaar Card, Birth Certificate, Parents’ ID Proofs, Hospital Record.	Affidavit for name change, Newspaper publication, Gazette notification (if required), along with ID proofs.
Time Taken	Around 7 to 30 days (depends on the local municipal authority).	Around 30 to 90 days (because it includes legal paperwork and Gazette process).
Example	“Simran” corrected to “Simraan” or “Mohit” to “Mohith”.	“Riya Sharma” changed to “Riya Verma” or after marriage “Priya Mehta” to “Priya Gupta”.

When Do You Need Name Change or Name Correction in a Birth Certificate?

You may need to correct or change the name in a birth certificate when the details printed are wrong, incomplete, or legally updated later. These situations are common and can affect school admission, passport, Aadhaar, visa, or legal documentation in India.

Common Situations When Name Correction or Name Change Is Needed:

Spelling mistakes in the child’s name
Example: “Aarav” printed as “Arav” or “Simran” printed as “Simram”.
Wrong parents’ name printed
Father or mother’s name printed with spelling errors or incorrect surname.
Name left blank during birth registration
If the child was registered without a name and parents want to add it later.
Legal name change after Gazette Notification
When someone has officially changed their name through affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette.
Marriage or adoption leading to surname change
Example: Woman adding husband’s surname after marriage, or a child getting a new surname after adoption.
Clerical or typing mistake by hospital or municipality
Errors made during data entry by hospital staff or municipal office.

Who Can Apply for Name Change in a Birth Certificate?

Not everyone is allowed to request a name change in a birth certificate. Only authorized people connected to the child or the birth record can apply.

Eligible Applicants:

Parents of the Child
Either mother or father can apply on behalf of their child.
Legal Guardian
If parents are not available, a legal guardian appointed by the court can apply.
The Individual Themselves (18+ Years Old)
If the person is an adult (18 years or above), they can apply for correcting or changing their own name.
Adoptive Parents
If the child is adopted, adoptive parents can request to update the child’s surname or full name in the birth certificate.
Court-Appointed Guardian (Special Cases)
In case of orphaned children or legal disputes, a guardian appointed by the court can apply for the change.

Documents Required for Name Correction or Name Change in Birth Certificate

The documents required depend on whether you are making a minor correction (spelling or typing error) or a major name change (changing full name, adding surname, etc.).

1. Documents for Minor Name Correction (Spelling / Typing Mistakes)

These documents are enough when only small errors like wrong spelling, missing letters, or typing mistakes need to be fixed.

Original Birth Certificate
Application Form for Name Correction (from Municipal Office or online portal)
Parent’s Aadhaar Card or any valid ID Proof
Hospital Birth Record / Discharge Certificate
Proof showing the correct name (any one):
- Aadhaar Card with correct name
- School admission form or school record
- Vaccination card / Health card

2. Documents for Major Name Change (Surname / Full Name Change)

These are required when you want to fully change the name, add a surname, or modify it after marriage, adoption, or Gazette declaration.

Original Birth Certificate
Affidavit for Name Change (notarized on stamp paper)
Newspaper Advertisement (copy of publication in local and national newspaper)
Gazette Notification (if required by your state or for legal purposes)
Aadhaar Card, School Records, Ration Card, Passport (any ID with new name)
Parent’s Identity Proof and Address Proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)

Step-by-Step Process for Name Correction in Birth Certificate (Online Method)

Many states in India provide an online service to correct spelling mistakes or minor errors in the birth certificate. Below are the simple steps you can follow:

Step-by-Step Guide

Visit the Official Website
Go to your state’s Birth and Death Registration Portal.
- Example: crsorgi.gov.in or your State Municipal Corporation website.
Select ‘Birth Certificate Correction’ Option
Look for options like “Apply for Birth Certificate Correction”, “Name Correction”, or “Modify Birth Details”.
Register or Log In
Create an account using your mobile number or email ID, or log in if already registered.
Fill the Online Correction Form
Enter correct details such as child’s name, parents’ names, date of birth, and certificate registration number.
Upload Required Documents:
- Scanned copy of original birth certificate
- Parent’s Aadhaar Card or ID proof
- Proof showing correct name (Aadhaar card, school record, hospital record, etc.)
Pay the Correction Fee
Some states charge a small fee (₹20–₹200) for processing the correction request. Payment can be made online.
Submit the Application
After checking all details, submit the form and note the acknowledgement number for tracking.
Verification by Municipal Authority
The registrar or municipal officer reviews the documents and confirms the correction request.
Download or Collect Updated Birth Certificate
Once approved, the corrected birth certificate is either:
- Available for download online, or
- You can collect it from the municipal office.

Step-by-Step Offline Method for Name Correction in Birth Certificate

If online services are not available in your area, you can correct the name on the birth certificate through the offline process at the local government office.

Follow these steps:

Visit the Local Office
Go to the Municipal Corporation, Nagar Palika, or Gram Panchayat Office where the birth was originally registered.
Get the Birth Correction Form (Form 10)
Ask for the Birth Certificate Correction Form, also known as Form 10 in many states.
Fill the Form with Correct Details
Write the correct name of the child and attach the required documents.
Attach Supporting Documents:
- Original Birth Certificate
- Parent’s Aadhaar Card or ID Proof
- Hospital Birth Record / Discharge Summary
- Proof showing the correct name (School record, Aadhaar, etc.)
Submit the Form to the Registrar of Births and Deaths
Submit the form along with documents to the Registrar or Health Department Clerk.
Pay the Required Fee
Some states charge a small correction fee. Pay it and collect the acknowledgment receipt.
Verification and Certificate Issue
After checking the documents, the authority approves the correction.
A corrected birth certificate is issued or can be collected from the office.

Full Name Change Process in Birth Certificate (Including Gazette Method)

If you want to change your full name, add a surname, or legally update your identity in the birth certificate, you must follow a legal name change process in India. This process includes creating an affidavit, publishing the change in newspapers, and notifying it through the official Gazette. Following the proper name change process ensures your updated name is legally valid across all government records and documents.

✔ Step 1: Create a Name Change Affidavit

Visit a notary, lawyer, or court to prepare the affidavit.
Use stamp paper (₹10, ₹20, ₹50 or as per your state rules).
The affidavit must clearly mention:
- Old name
- New name
- Father’s or mother’s name
- Reason for changing the name
Get it signed and notarized by a Notary Public or First-Class Magistrate.

✔ Step 2: Publish a Newspaper Advertisement

Publish the name change in two newspapers:
- One local language newspaper (Hindi/regional language)
- One English newspaper
The advertisement must include:
- Old name and new name
- Parents’ names
- Full address
- Date of the affidavit
Keep the newspaper copies safely—they are required for Gazette and certificate update.

✔ Step 3: Gazette Notification (Legal Proof of Name Change)

Visit the Department of Publication (Govt. of India) website or your state’s government press.
Fill the Gazette Name Change Application Form.
Attach the following documents:
- Name change affidavit
- Newspaper advertisements (both copies)
- Birth certificate copy
- Aadhaar card or other ID proof
Pay the Gazette fee (₹500 – ₹1500 approx.)
After approval, your new name will be officially published in the Gazette of India.

Final Step: Update Birth Certificate with New Name

Once your name is published in the Gazette:

Visit your Municipal Corporation / Panchayat office.
Submit:
- Gazette copy
- Affidavit
- Newspaper ads
- Original Birth Certificate
Apply for the updated birth certificate with the new name.

Can You Change Your Name in a Birth Certificate After Many Years?

Yes, you can. In India, it is possible to change or correct your name in a birth certificate even after 10, 15, or 20 years. However, the process becomes slightly stricter as the person grows older because more verification and legal proof are required.

🔹 For Adults (18 Years and Above)

If you are an adult and want to change or correct your name in your birth certificate, you need to follow a full legal procedure.

Submit a name change affidavit personally before a notary or magistrate.
Gazette notification is mandatory for adults in most states.
All other ID proofs like Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, and School Certificates must reflect the new name for consistency.
In some states, the municipal officer or registrar may ask for a court order for verification, especially if the record is very old.

🔹 For Children (Below 18 Years)

Parents or legal guardians can easily apply for the child’s name correction or name change before the age of 18.

Parents need to submit an affidavit and declaration mentioning the correct or new name.
Usually, Gazette notification may not be required for minor corrections.
Once the new name is approved, parents should update the child’s school record, Aadhaar, and other ID documents.

Fees and Time Duration for Name Correction or Name Change in Birth Certificate (India)

The cost and processing time depend on whether it is a simple spelling correction or a full legal name change through affidavit and Gazette. Below is a clear table for better understanding:

Process	Approx. Fees	Time Taken
Name Correction (Spelling / Typing Mistake)	₹50 – ₹200	7 – 30 days
Affidavit for Name Change	₹50 – ₹150 (Notary & Stamp Paper)	1 day
Newspaper Advertisement	₹300 – ₹1000 (Both newspapers)	1 day
Gazette Notification (Central or State)	₹500 – ₹1500	30 – 45 days
Updated Birth Certificate Issuance	₹50 – ₹200	7 – 15 days

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Name Change or Correction in Birth Certificate

Many applications get delayed or rejected due to small errors. To make the process smooth and successful, avoid the following mistakes:

Applying without complete documents
Missing affidavit, ID proof, or hospital record can lead to rejection or delays.
Different or mismatched signatures of parents
Parents must sign using the same signature as used in Aadhaar, affidavit, or other official documents.
Incorrect spelling in affidavit or newspaper advertisement
Even a minor spelling error in the affidavit or newspaper ad can cause the Gazette department or municipal office to reject the request.
Not updating other documents after name change
After the name is updated, it is important to update Aadhaar, PAN Card, Passport, School Records, and Bank Accounts to avoid future legal issues.
Using handwritten affidavits or unclear documents
Affidavits and applications should be typed and clearly printed, not handwritten, to maintain accuracy and legal validity.
Not keeping extra copies of documents
Always keep extra copies of the affidavit, newspaper advertisements, Gazette notification, and acknowledgement receipts for future use.

Sample Application Format for Name Correction in Birth Certificate

To,
Registrar of Births and Deaths
Municipal Corporation / Gram Panchayat
City / Village Name, State

Subject: Application for Name Correction in Birth Certificate

Respected Sir/Madam,

I, [Father’s/Mother’s Name], parent of [Child’s Name], kindly request a correction in my child’s name mentioned in the birth certificate. The birth was registered on [Date of Birth Registration] with registration number [Registration Number].

Currently, the name is printed as [Incorrect Name], whereas the correct name should be [Correct Name]. I request you to make the necessary correction in the official records and issue an updated birth certificate.

I am enclosing the required documents for your reference and verification.

Thanking you,

Yours faithfully,
Name: ___________________
Address: ________________
Contact Number: __________
Date: ____________________

How MakemyGazette Can Help You

If you find the name correction process difficult or time-consuming, MakemyGazette can assist you with:

Preparing the affidavit for name correction
Drafting and typing the application in the correct format
Publishing the newspaper advertisement (if required)
Submitting documents for Gazette name change
Providing step-by-step guidance until you receive the updated birth certificate

You only need to provide basic details — the rest will be managed for you.

Final Conclusion

Correcting or changing a name in a birth certificate in India is completely possible if you follow the proper legal process. There are two types of procedures:

Simple correction, used for spelling or typing mistakes
Full name change, which includes affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette notification

Many states allow online applications, while others require visiting the municipal office or gram panchayat.

By submitting accurate documents and following each step carefully, you can successfully get your updated birth certificate. This helps avoid issues in the future while updating Aadhaar, passport, school records, bank accounts, or any legal documents.

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Gazette Notification For Name Change

FAQ

1. Can I correct my birth certificate online in India?

Yes, many states in India allow online birth certificate correction through their official Civil Registration System (CRS) or municipal website. You need to fill the correction form, upload documents like Aadhaar, birth certificate, and pay a small fee. Verification is done by the registrar.

2. How do I correct a spelling mistake on my birth certificate?

To fix a spelling mistake in a birth certificate, submit an application to the municipal office or apply online (if available). Attach the original birth certificate, parents’ Aadhaar, school or hospital proof showing the correct name. After verification, a corrected birth certificate is issued.

3. How many times can we correct a name in a birth certificate?

There is no fixed limit, but authorities generally allow only one correction for name or spelling. Multiple changes may require an affidavit, Gazette notification, or even a court order. So ensure that the name correction is accurate and supported by valid proofs.

4. How many days does it take to correct a birth certificate in India?

Birth certificate correction usually takes 7 to 30 days, depending on the state and type of correction. Minor spelling changes take less time, while full name changes involving affidavits, newspaper publication, or Gazette notification can take 30–45 days.

5. How do I edit my name in my birth certificate?

To edit your name, submit a written application or apply online at the municipal portal. Attach an affidavit, Aadhaar card, birth certificate copy, and proof of correct name. If it’s a full name change, newspaper ads and Gazette notification are required before the update.

6. How can I get my birth certificate corrected in Delhi?

In Delhi, visit the MCD (Municipal Corporation of Delhi) office or apply online through the e-MCD portal. Fill the correction form, upload documents like Aadhaar, affidavit, and birth record. Pay the fee and track the status. After approval, download the updated birth certificate.

7. What is the procedure to change date of birth (DOB) in a birth certificate?

For DOB change, you must submit a court affidavit, hospital birth record, school record, and ID proof. Many states ask for a court order or magistrate approval. Once verified, the registrar updates the birth certificate and issues a new corrected copy.

8. Can we change the name on the birth certificate?

Yes, you can change the name on a birth certificate. For minor spelling mistakes, submit a correction form. For full name or surname change, you must follow the affidavit + newspaper publication + Gazette notification process. Then apply to update the birth record.

9. Can I change my birth certificate after 18 years?

Yes, adults (18+) can change their name in the birth certificate. You must submit an affidavit, Gazette notification, Aadhaar proof, and sometimes a court order. The process may take longer than for minors, but it is legally possible.

10. Is Gazette notification required for birth certificate name change?

Gazette notification is compulsory only for major name changes or surname changes. For minor spelling corrections, Gazette is not required. However, if you want the new name to be legally valid in Aadhaar, passport, PAN, and government records, Gazette publication is recommended.