About this agreement
This Affidavit of Change of Name is a sworn statement used to formally record that a person has abandoned a former name and assumed a new name. It is commonly prepared for Gazette notification, passport update, and for aligning identity across bank accounts, educational records, and other official documents.
When this affidavit may be used
This format may be used when a notary public, oath commissioner, passport authority, Gazette publication process, bank, educational institution, employer, or other competent authority requires a sworn declaration of name change. Typical situations include:
- publishing a name change in the Official Gazette;
- updating a passport or other travel document;
- correcting or updating name particulars in Aadhaar-linked / KYC records (as required by the receiving authority);
- aligning school, college, employment, or property records with the new name.
What the affidavit confirms
The deponent confirms that:
- the deponent was previously known by a stated former name;
- the former name has been abandoned, relinquished, and renounced;
- a new name has been assumed and adopted for all purposes;
- henceforth the deponent shall be known, addressed, and described in records, passport, bank accounts, and documents by the new name;
- the declaration is made voluntarily on oath.
Details to complete
Before signing, enter the city/district of the notary or oath commissioner, the deponent’s former name, father’s name, address, new name, place and date of execution, and complete the verification and identification blocks. Names must be spelled consistently across the affidavit and supporting identity documents.
Execution and notarization
Do not sign the affidavit in advance. Sign and swear it before a notary public, oath commissioner, or other authorized official. Carry valid photo identity and address proof, and any additional papers required by the Gazette / passport / receiving authority.
Important legal note
Stamp paper value, notarization, Gazette publication, passport rules, and KYC update requirements differ by state and by the authority concerned. This template is a general format and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified legal professional.
Important Guidelines
Use this affidavit when you need a sworn declaration that you have changed your name (for Gazette notification, passport, banks, or other authorities).
Drafting and execution guidance:
- Fill the heading with the correct city / district and State of the notary public or oath commissioner.
- Enter your former (old) name exactly as shown on current identity documents.
- Enter your father’s / husband’s name and complete residential address.
- State clearly that you have abandoned the former name and assumed the new name.
- Spell the new name consistently everywhere it appears in the affidavit.
- Mention that you will henceforth be known by the new name in all records, passport, bank accounts, and documents.
- Complete PLACE and DATED with the place and date of swearing.
- Sign or affix thumb impression only before the notary / oath commissioner — not in advance.
- Complete the VERIFICATION clause with city, day, month, and year.
- Have the affidavit identified by an advocate where required (name, court, enrollment number).
- Ensure the notary / oath commissioner completes the attestation with seal and stamp.
- Keep photocopies of identity proof, address proof, and the sworn affidavit for Gazette / passport / KYC filings.
- Follow the specific checklist of the Gazette office, passport office, or other authority before submission.
- If the name change is contested, involves minors, or is linked to property / succession rights, have a lawyer review the completed affidavit before use.
Caution: Incorrect name spellings or unsigned / unattested affidavits are routinely rejected. Match every particular to your supporting documents.
Supporting Documents
The following documents are commonly required when swearing and using an Affidavit of Change of Name for Gazette notification, passport update, or other official purposes. Exact requirements depend on the notary and the receiving authority.
Valid photo identity proof of the deponent
Aadhaar, PAN, passport, voter ID, or driving licence showing the former name (and photograph).
When: Always, for identification before the notary / oath commissioner.
Address proof of the deponent
Aadhaar, utility bill, rent agreement, or other accepted address proof matching the affidavit address.
When: Usually required for notarization and subsequent filings.
Passport-size photographs
Recent photographs as required by the notary or the receiving authority.
When: Often required for notarization and passport / Gazette applications.
Supporting documents showing former name
School certificates, birth certificate, old passport, or other records reflecting the former name.
When: Recommended to establish continuity of identity.
Draft Gazette / passport application papers
Forms and annexures prescribed by the Official Gazette office or Passport Seva / concerned authority.
When: When filing for Gazette publication or passport update after the affidavit.
Stamp paper (if required in your State)
Non-judicial stamp paper of the denomination required locally for affidavits, where applicable.
When: Where State practice requires the affidavit on stamp paper.
Frequently asked questions
What is an Affidavit of Change of Name used for?→
It is a sworn declaration that you have given up a former name and adopted a new name. It is often required for Gazette publication, passport updates, and updating records with banks or other authorities.
Do I need to get this affidavit notarized?→
Yes. Sign and swear it before a notary public, oath commissioner, or other authorized official. Do not sign it in advance.
Is Gazette publication mandatory after this affidavit?→
Many passport and official processes expect a Gazette notification of the name change. Requirements vary — confirm with the authority you are approaching.
What documents should I carry while swearing the affidavit?→
Carry valid photo identity proof, address proof, and any documents showing your former name. Some authorities also ask for supporting papers for the reason of change.
Can I use this format for a minor’s name change?→
Name change for a minor usually involves parents or guardians and additional formalities. Use a format suitable for minors and take legal advice before filing.
Does this affidavit itself change my name everywhere?→
No. The affidavit is a supporting sworn statement. You must still complete the update process with each authority (Gazette, passport, banks, etc.) as required.
