How to Change Your Name in Karnataka Through Gazette Notification

A name is more than just an identifier; it represents your legal and personal identity. Whether due to marriage, divorce, numerological preferences, or professional reasons, a legal name change in Karnataka must be officially recorded through a Gazette notification to be recognized by all government and financial institutions.

The Gazette of Karnataka is an official publication maintained by the Government of Karnataka. Once your name change is published here, it serves as indisputable legal proof of your new identity. Without Gazette publication, even an affidavit or newspaper ad may not be sufficient for updating your PAN card, passport, or Aadhaar card.

Platforms like Lawtendo simplify this otherwise bureaucratic process by helping individuals prepare documents correctly and ensure compliance with Gazette procedures, reducing the chances of rejection or delay.

Any Indian citizen residing in Karnataka can apply for a name change through the Gazette. The eligibility criteria are simple but must be followed carefully.

1. The applicant must be above 18 years of age.

2. For minors, parents or legal guardians can apply on their behalf.

3. The applicant should possess valid identification such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, or passport showing current address details.

4. The name change must not be for fraudulent, misleading, or criminal purposes.

Government employees may need to submit an additional NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their department before the Gazette publication. Adherence to such eligibility norms ensures smooth processing of your name change request.

Accuracy in documentation is vital. The Gazette department scrutinizes every paper submitted, so even a small mismatch can cause rejection. Below are the essential documents typically required for the name change process.

1. Name Change Affidavit: A notarized affidavit stating your old name, new name, reason for the change, and personal details like date of birth and address.

2. Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, or driving license showing the existing name.

3. Address Proof: Utility bills, ration card, or rental agreement reflecting your current residence.

4. Passport Size Photographs: Usually, two to three copies are required.

5. Newspaper Publication: Copies of newspaper advertisements published in both English and Kannada newspapers announcing the name change.

6. Application Form: Duly filled Gazette application form available on the official Karnataka Government Printing Press website or in-person office.

Applicants using professional assistance services such as Lawtendo often benefit from ready-to-use templates and verification checks to ensure all details align across documents, an invaluable safeguard when dealing with government offices.

The cost of Gazette publication varies slightly depending on whether the application is made in person or through registered post. Generally, the government charges a nominal publication fee, often ranging from ₹150 to ₹500. Additional costs may arise for notarization, courier, and newspaper publications.

Once all documents are submitted, the processing time typically takes 30 to 45 working days. Applicants should note that incomplete documentation or incorrect details can prolong the process.

Using expert-guided online services helps streamline submission and ensures compliance with Gazette formatting and legal requirements, saving both time and unnecessary follow-ups.

There are numerous personal and professional reasons why individuals in Karnataka opt for name changes. Some of the most common include:

1. After Marriage: Many individuals adopt their spouse’s surname after marriage.

2. After Divorce: Reverting to a maiden name or adopting a new name post-divorce.

3. Numerological or Astrological Reasons: Some change their names for perceived luck or alignment with numerological beliefs.

4. Spelling Errors: Correcting discrepancies in documents such as school certificates or Aadhaar cards.

5. Gender Transition: Updating name and gender identity for official recognition.

6. Adoption or Parental Change: Minors may undergo name changes when legal guardianship or parental rights change.

Each reason requires a slightly different affidavit or supporting proof, but the Gazette notification process remains the same.

This is the central and most crucial step in the legal name change process. Once your affidavit and newspaper publications are ready, the next step involves submitting your name change request to the Karnataka Government Printing Press, which handles Gazette notifications.

Here’s how the process unfolds:

1. Fill Out the Gazette Application Form: Include all details such as old name, new name, address, date of birth, and reason for change.

2. Attach Required Documents: Affidavit, newspaper ads, and ID proofs must be attached with the form.

3. Submit to the Gazette Department: Applications can be submitted in person or by post to the Department of Printing, Stationery, and Publications, Government of Karnataka.

4. Verification and Publication: Once verified, your new name appears in the next available Gazette issue.

After publication, you’ll receive a copy of the Gazette, which serves as permanent legal proof of your new name. Keep this copy safe; it’s often required for all official document updates.

Once your name appears in the Gazette, the legal process concludes, but the practical work begins. You must now update your new name across all official and personal documents. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Aadhaar Card: Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra with your Gazette copy, affidavit, and original Aadhaar card.

2. PAN Card: Apply online through the NSDL or UTI portal using your Gazette publication as supporting proof.

3. Passport: Submit a “reissue of passport” request with the Gazette copy and a self-attested affidavit.

4. Bank Accounts: Update your name in all bank accounts using a self-attested Gazette copy and updated ID proof.

5. Driving License and Voter ID: Submit applications at RTO and Election Commission offices, respectively.

A methodical update ensures consistency across databases, avoiding confusion during financial or legal verifications. Many individuals rely on Lawtendo’s legal documentation support to handle multiple name updates seamlessly under one coordinated process.

Even small mistakes can lead to unnecessary delays or outright rejections. Here are frequent pitfalls applicants should avoid:

1. Incomplete Affidavit Details: Missing birth date, old name, or reason for name change may invalidate your application.

2. Incorrect Newspaper Publication: The announcement must be published in one English and one regional (Kannada) newspaper.

3. Inconsistent Spellings: All documents should reflect the exact same spelling of your old and new names.

4. Skipping Gazette Publication: Without Gazette notification, your name change has no permanent legal validity.

5. Not Keeping Copies: Always keep photocopies of your affidavit, newspaper ads, and Gazette page for future reference.

Being meticulous prevents administrative back-and-forth. Experienced facilitators familiar with Gazette norms, such as Lawtendo, can help identify such gaps before submission, ensuring a smoother transition to your new legal identity.

Step 1: Draft and Notarize the Affidavit
The first and most essential step in changing your name legally in Karnataka is preparing a sworn affidavit. This document acts as your legal declaration confirming your intention to adopt a new name.

• Your current full name

• Your proposed new name

• Date of birth and current address

• Reason for the name change

• Declaration that the change is not for illegal or deceptive purposes

• Statement confirming that you will henceforth be known by your new name

• Draft the affidavit on ₹20 or ₹100 non-judicial stamp paper

• Include two witnesses with their signatures and details

• Get the affidavit notarized by a registered notary public in Karnataka

• Attach two recent passport-size photographs

💡 Pro Tip: Lawtendo’s legal experts prepare affidavits that meet Karnataka’s Gazette standards, ensuring there are no rejections during verification.

Step 2: Publish Name Change Advertisement in Newspapers
Next, issue public notice of your name change by publishing advertisements in two newspapers, one in Kannada and one in English. This creates a legal trail and public awareness.

• Kannada Newspaper: Choose a reputed daily like Vijaya Karnataka, Prajavani, or Kannada Prabha

• English Newspaper: Select a widely circulated paper like The Hindu, Deccan Herald, or Times of India

Advertisement Format:
CHANGE OF NAME
I, [Old Name], son/daughter/wife of [Father’s/Husband’s Name], residing at [Complete Address], have changed my name from [Old Name] to [New Name] as per affidavit dated [Date], sworn before Notary Public, [Location].

• Ensure both newspapers circulate in your district or city such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, or Mangalore

• Retain the original newspaper clippings, not photocopies

• Publish within 15 days of affidavit notarization

• The name, date, and details must exactly match your affidavit

📰 Note: Lawtendo can handle the entire ad publication process, from drafting to booking in major Kannada and English newspapers.

Step 3: Submit Application to the Karnataka Gazette Office
After publishing your affidavit and advertisements, submit your application to the Karnataka Government Press for official Gazette publication. This is the final and most crucial stage that makes your name change legally valid across India.

Gazette Office Address in Karnataka:
Department of Printing, Stationery and Publications
Government Press, Bengaluru 560009
Contact: +91 96253 56806

• Duly filled name change application form available at the Government Press or online

• Original notarized affidavit

• Original newspaper clippings of both Kannada and English ads

• Identity proof such as Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID

• Address proof such as ration card, electricity bill, or rental agreement

• Two passport-size photographs

• Digital copy on CD or USB containing scanned PDFs of all documents

• Demand Draft or online payment receipt for Gazette publication fee

1. Obtain the Gazette application form from the Department of Printing or download it online

2. Fill out the form carefully using the same details from your affidavit and ads

3. Attach all required documents and originals

4. Prepare a digital copy of all documents in clear PDF format

5. Pay the Gazette fee, usually between ₹1,100 and ₹1,700 depending on category

6. Submit your complete application set and obtain an acknowledgment receipt

💡 Pro Tip: Lawtendo’s legal team assists with Gazette submissions across Karnataka, ensuring that documents are formatted and verified correctly before submission.

Step 4: Receive Gazette Notification
Once the Gazette Office verifies your documents, your name will be officially published in the Karnataka Government Gazette. This serves as the ultimate and permanent proof of your legal name change.

• Application verification: 2 to 3 weeks

• Gazette approval and publication: 3 to 4 weeks

• Delivery or online availability: 1 week after publication

• Your new name is officially listed in the Karnataka State Gazette

• The Gazette copy acts as your final and legal proof of the name change

• Preserve it carefully, as it will be required for updating all official records

📜 Note: You can download your published name change notification from the Karnataka Gazette online portal or request a printed copy from the department.

Step 5: Update All Government and Personal Documents
After Gazette publication, update your new name across all government IDs, financial accounts, educational certificates, and property records.

• Aadhaar Card: Update through UIDAI centers with the Gazette copy and original ID proof

• PAN Card: Apply for correction via NSDL or UTIITSL with Gazette proof

• Passport: Reapply at the Passport Seva Kendra with the Gazette notification

• Voter ID: Submit Form 8 with Gazette proof to your local Election Office

• Driving License: Visit your RTO with the Gazette copy and supporting documents

• Update your bank account, chequebooks, and debit or credit cards

• Notify your employer, insurance providers, and mutual fund agencies

• Update PF, pension, and investment accounts

• Submit the Gazette copy to your educational institutions or universities

• Update licenses, professional registrations, and certifications

• Update property documents, khata records, rental agreements, and utility bills using the Gazette proof

💼 Pro Tip: Lawtendo offers a document update service across Karnataka, ensuring your name change reflects everywhere from Aadhaar to property records without bureaucratic delays.

Changing your name in Karnataka through Gazette Notification is a five-step legal process that transforms your new identity into an officially recognized one. By ensuring proper documentation, accurate details, and timely submissions, you can complete your name change smoothly and legally across all records in the state and beyond.

1. Name Change After Marriage in Karnataka

Marriage is one of the most common reasons for name change in Karnataka, especially for women who adopt their husband’s surname after marriage.

Process:
Create a marriage name change affidavit
Attach marriage certificate as proof
Publish name change in newspapers
Submit documents for Gazette publication

Timeline: 6 to 8 weeks

Cost: ₹3,500 to ₹5,000

2. Name Change After Divorce in Karnataka

After divorce, many individuals revert to their maiden name or adopt a completely new name for personal or legal reasons.

Key Considerations:
Divorce decree required as proof
Court order may be needed if decree specifies name retention
Custody-related documents must reflect updated name if children are involved

Timeline: 7 to 8 weeks

Cost: ₹4,000 to ₹5,500

3. Name Change for Numerological or Astrological Reasons

In Karnataka, many people change their names based on numerology or astrology for prosperity or harmony in life.

Valid Reasons:
Unfavorable numerology
Astrological guidance
Spiritual or religious advice
Personal belief

Timeline: 6 to 8 weeks

Cost: ₹3,500 to ₹5,000

4. Name Change for Document Mismatch or Spelling Correction

Discrepancies in name spelling across documents such as Aadhaar, PAN, and school certificates are common in Karnataka and can be legally corrected through Gazette notification.

Common Errors:
Different spellings across documents
Missing initials or middle names
Translation errors from Kannada to English

Timeline: 6 to 8 weeks

Cost: ₹3,500 to ₹5,000

5. Name Change for Minors in Karnataka

Parents or legal guardians can apply to change their child’s name before the age of 18 through affidavit and Gazette publication.

Special Requirements:
Consent from both parents
Birth certificate mandatory
Custody holder’s consent if divorced
School records must be updated after Gazette publication

Timeline: 7 to 9 weeks

Cost: ₹3,500 to ₹5,000

6. Name Change After Adoption

In adoption cases, the adopted child’s name must be updated to match the adoptive parents’ details.

Legal Framework:
Adoption deed from family court
Court order recognizing adoption
Relinquishment deed if applicable

Timeline: 8 to 10 weeks

Cost: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000

7. Name Change for Gender Transition

Karnataka legally supports transgender individuals in changing their names through affidavit and Gazette publication to match their gender identity.

Special Provisions:
Affidavit declaring gender transition
Medical or psychological report optional
Recognized under the Transgender Persons Act, 2019

Timeline: 8 to 10 weeks

Cost: ₹4,500 to ₹6,500

8. Name Change Due to Parents’ Divorce (For Children)

Children may change their surname to match the custodial parent’s or revert to the mother’s maiden name after their parents’ divorce in Karnataka.

Key Requirements:
Custody order from family court
Divorce decree mentioning custody
Consent of custodial parent mandatory

Timeline: 8 to 10 weeks

Cost: ₹4,500 to ₹6,000

9. Name Change Due to Parents’ Second Marriage

Children may adopt the step-parent’s surname after a parent’s remarriage in Karnataka to align family identity.

Special Considerations:
Consent from biological parent required
Court approval may be needed if contested
Step-parent adoption deed if applicable

Timeline: 8 to 12 weeks

Cost: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000

10. Name Change to Avoid Confusion or Legal Complications

If a person’s name matches another individual’s, especially someone with legal or criminal background, they can change their name to prevent confusion.

Valid Reasons:
Duplicate names in workplace or legal records
Identity confusion in financial transactions
Similarity with a person having a criminal record

Timeline: 7 to 9 weeks

Cost: ₹4,000 to ₹6,000

Background:
Mrs. Kavya Nair, a software engineer from Bangalore, wanted to change her surname to her husband’s after marriage. The change was essential for updating her passport, Aadhaar card, and employment records.

Family / Parties Involved:
Married couple – applicant and spouse.

Legal Process:
In January 2024, Mrs. Nair consulted Advocate Radhika Menon and prepared an affidavit declaring her name change from “Kavya Pillai” to “Kavya Nair.” The affidavit was notarized and published in The Hindu (English) and Vijay Karnataka (Kannada). After publication, the documents were submitted to the Government Press in Bengaluru for gazette notification, along with her Aadhaar, marriage certificate, and two passport-size photographs.

Challenges Faced:
The gazette application was initially held due to a missing attested copy of her marriage certificate. The advocate resubmitted the corrected file with notarization.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
Gazette notification was published in 40 days. The total cost was ₹3,000, including affidavit, publication, and gazette processing charges.

Key Learning:
Before filing for a name change, ensure that all supporting identity documents, especially the marriage certificate, are attested and attached to the application.

Background:
After her divorce, Mrs. Megha Rao wanted to revert to her maiden name “Megha Iyer” to align her documents with her pre-marriage records.

Family / Parties Involved:
Divorcee applicant.

Legal Process:
Application was filed in November 2023 through Advocate Savitha Shenoy. The affidavit clearly mentioned both her old and new names and stated that the change was voluntary. The name change was published in Deccan Herald and Prajavani. The gazette application was filed at the Department of Printing, Stationery, and Publications, Bengaluru, with a copy of her divorce decree and Aadhaar card.

Challenges Faced:
The gazette office requested additional verification because the divorce decree carried her married name. An additional self-declaration was submitted confirming the change.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
The name was updated in 52 days. The total cost was ₹3,400, including affidavit, newspaper publication, and gazette charges.

Key Learning:
When reverting to your maiden name, include your divorce decree and self-declaration to link both identities clearly.

Background:
Mr. Pradeep Kumar, an entrepreneur from Mysuru, decided to modify his name to “Pradeepp Kumar” for numerological reasons. He wanted the change to reflect on all his business and identity records.

Family / Parties Involved:
Single applicant.

Legal Process:
The affidavit was prepared and notarized in December 2023 under Advocate Kiran Kumar’s guidance. The name change notice was published in The New Indian Express and Kannada Prabha. All documents were then submitted to the Government Press, Bengaluru, for gazette publication.

Challenges Faced:
One of the newspaper publications printed an incorrect spelling of the new name. The advocate submitted a corrected version along with an affidavit explaining the error.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
The name change was officially published in the gazette within 45 days. Total cost was ₹3,600, including re-publication and notarization.

Key Learning:
Always proofread your newspaper publication to ensure the name spelling matches the affidavit. Even minor errors can lead to re-submission.

Background:
A 10-year-old student, Ananya Sharma, had her name incorrectly printed as “Ananya Sharam” on her birth certificate and school records. Her parents decided to correct it legally through a gazette notification.

Family / Parties Involved:
Parents applying on behalf of the minor child.

Legal Process:
In October 2023, the parents, represented by Advocate Rekha Suresh, prepared a notarized affidavit mentioning both spellings and the reason for correction. The name change was published in The Times of India and Udayavani. The gazette application included the birth certificate, school ID, and parents’ Aadhaar cards.

Challenges Faced:
The school requested a certified gazette copy before updating the records, which extended the completion timeline slightly.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
The gazette notification was published in 60 days. Total cost was ₹2,700, including affidavit, publication, and gazette fees.

Key Learning:
For minors, both parents must provide consent and valid ID proofs. Schools and educational boards generally require the gazette copy for any official name corrections.

Background:
Mr. Rajiv Menon, an NRI living in Singapore, wanted to add his middle name “Suresh” to his Indian passport and official documents.

Family / Parties Involved:
NRI applicant and legal representative in India.

Legal Process:
Mr. Menon issued a Power of Attorney (POA) attested at the Indian Consulate in Singapore authorizing his father in Bengaluru to handle all legal formalities. The POA was revalidated locally by a notary. The affidavit and newspaper publications were completed under Advocate Kavitha Sharma’s guidance, followed by submission to the Government Press for gazette notification.

Challenges Faced:
The foreign-attested POA required additional authentication from the consulate due to a missing seal, which delayed verification.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
Gazette notification was completed in 70 days. The total cost was ₹7,500, including attestation, courier, and legal documentation.

Key Learning:
For NRI applicants, ensure the Power of Attorney is correctly attested and revalidated before use. This avoids delays in processing at the gazette office.

For NRIs, changing a name legally in Karnataka is more than just paperwork — it’s a process that ensures their identity remains consistent across Indian and foreign records. Whether the reason is marriage, divorce, numerology, gender transition, or correcting a spelling error, Karnataka’s name change process through gazette notification provides the highest level of legal validation. For overseas citizens, the key challenge lies in affidavit attestation, publication, and gazette submission, all of which require both Indian and consular coordination. The Department of Printing, Stationery, and Publications in Bangalore handles all name change notifications for residents and NRIs, with physical verification required for documents filed from abroad.

Embassy Attestation and Power of Attorney
NRIs must execute their name change affidavit in front of an Indian Embassy or Consulate official abroad. The attested affidavit must then be couriered to Karnataka for submission. Delays or missing embassy seals are among the most common causes of rejections.

Physical Submission Requirement
The Karnataka Gazette Office accepts only physical applications. NRI applicants need a local representative to file documents in person and collect the printed gazette copy once published.

Newspaper Publication Limitations
Two local newspaper publications, one in Kannada and one in English are mandatory. Many NRIs struggle to coordinate this while abroad without local contact.

Courier and Attestation Delays
International courier services add 10 to 15 working days to the overall timeline. Embassies may also require appointment slots for document attestation.

Updating Indian Records from Abroad
Once the name change is approved, NRIs must update records such as PAN, passport, and Aadhaar. While passport updates can be managed through embassies, other updates typically require local execution.

Affidavit Drafting and Embassy Attestation Support
Lawtendo prepares a legally valid affidavit with the NRI’s old and new names, reason for change, and personal details. The document is formatted for embassy attestation and registered in India for local acceptance.

Newspaper Publication Coordination
The team handles mandatory publication in one English and one Kannada newspaper, collecting original copies as proof for the gazette submission.

Gazette Filing with the Karnataka Department of Printing
Lawtendo’s representative submits the application to the Director of Printing, Stationery, and Publications, Bangalore, with all supporting documents. The process is tracked until the official gazette is released.

Document Management and Courier Handling
All attested affidavits, ID proofs, and newspaper clippings are couriered securely to India. Once the gazette is published, digital scans are shared with the client, followed by delivery of the original copy.

Post-Gazette Updates
After gazette publication, Lawtendo assists in updating all relevant Indian records such as Aadhaar, PAN, passport, and property documents using the new legal name.

Phase 1: Affidavit Preparation and Attestation (10–15 Days)
Draft a name change affidavit containing your old and new names, along with personal details and reason for change. Get the document attested by an Indian Embassy or Consulate abroad, then courier the original to India for verification.

Phase 2: Newspaper Publication (7–10 Days)
Lawtendo arranges publication in one English and one Kannada newspaper in Karnataka. These advertisements serve as public notice and are mandatory for gazette processing.

Phase 3: Gazette Notification Filing (20–30 Days)
Submit the application at the Department of Printing, Stationery, and Publications, Bangalore, with the affidavit, newspaper copies, ID proofs, and photographs. Once verified, your new name is published in the Karnataka Gazette.

Phase 4: Record Updates (15–25 Days)
After receiving the gazette notification, update your PAN, passport, bank accounts, property records, and other legal documents in India.

Embassy-Attested Name Change Affidavit

Copies of Newspaper Advertisements (Kannada and English)

Passport Copy and Valid Visa Page

PAN Card and Aadhaar (if applicable)

Address Proof (Indian or Overseas)

Passport-Size Photographs

Authorization Letter or Power of Attorney (for representative filing)

Gazette Application Form with Signature

Average Duration: 45 to 60 days

Additional Delay: 10 to 15 days for embassy attestation and courier handling

Key Dependencies: Embassy appointments, courier movement, and gazette office verification schedule

Unattested or Improper Affidavit
Only affidavits attested by an Indian Embassy or Consulate are accepted for NRI cases.

Missing or Incomplete Newspaper Publication
Both English and Kannada publications are mandatory. Submitting only one results in rejection.

Incorrect Personal Information
Mismatched details across affidavit, passport, and ID proofs lead to objections. Ensure uniformity before filing.

Unsigned Gazette Application
Unsigned or incomplete forms are automatically rejected by the Gazette Office.

1. Prepare and get the name change affidavit attested by the Indian Embassy or Consulate.

2. Courier the attested affidavit and documents to your representative in Karnataka.

3. Publish your name change in one Kannada and one English newspaper.

4. File the application at the Department of Printing, Stationery, and Publications in Bangalore.

5. Receive your name change gazette notification and digital copy.

6. Update your passport, PAN, Aadhaar, and bank accounts with the new name.

Advocate Priya Narayan
Qualification: LL.B. (Bangalore University), LL.M. (Administrative and Civil Law)
Experience: 14 Years in personal documentation and Gazette publication processes
Specialization: Name change through Gazette notification, affidavit preparation, and ID record updates
Court Practice: Karnataka High Court, City Civil Court, and BBMP Legal Cell
Location: Jayanagar, Bangalore – 560011
Notable Achievements: Successfully handled 650+ Gazette name change cases for individuals and families
Fee Range: ₹2,000–₹5,000 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

Advocate Raghav Sharma
Qualification: LL.B., LL.M. (Public Administration and Legal Studies)
Experience: 18 Years in identity correction and legal name verification
Specialization: Gazette notification, name change for minors, and documentation rectification
Court Practice: Karnataka High Court, District Courts, and Department of Printing & Stationery (Gazette Section)
Location: Malleshwaram, Bangalore – 560003
Notable Achievements: Assisted corporate professionals and students in smooth Gazette name change completion
Fee Range: ₹3,000–₹6,500 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

Advocate Sneha Krishnan
Qualification: LL.B. (Christ University), LL.M. (Family and Civil Law)
Experience: 10 Years in family documentation and Gazette legalisation
Specialization: Name change after marriage or divorce, Gazette publication, and PAN/Aadhaar correction
Court Practice: Family Court, Civil Court, and Gazette Office Bangalore
Location: Koramangala, Bangalore – 560095
Notable Achievements: 400+ Gazette notifications filed successfully with zero procedural rejection
Fee Range: ₹2,500–₹5,000 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

Advocate S. Hariprasad
Qualification: LL.B., Diploma in Public Documentation and Legal Drafting
Experience: 21 Years handling Gazette-related documentation and identity disputes
Specialization: Gazette name change, affidavit drafting, document attestation, and administrative appeals
Court Practice: Revenue Tribunal, Civil Courts, Gazette Department Karnataka
Location: Basavanagudi, Bangalore – 560004
Notable Achievements: Expert in resolving Gazette delays and rejected applications for name changes
Fee Range: ₹3,500–₹7,000 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

Advocate Kavitha Murthy
Qualification: LL.B., LL.M. (Property and Family Law)
Experience: 12 Years in municipal and personal documentation matters
Specialization: Name change for marriage, divorce, gender transition, and minor applicants through Gazette
Court Practice: Family Court, Civil Court, Gazette Office Bangalore
Location: Vijayanagar, Bangalore – 560040
Notable Achievements: Maintains a 97% success rate in name change and Gazette publication cases
Fee Range: ₹2,500–₹5,500 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

For complete legal assistance with Name Change in Karnataka, property owners and residents can contact Lawtendo’s verified lawyers for end-to-end support — including affidavit preparation, Gazette publication filing, and official document updates across Aadhaar, PAN, and voter records.

Changing your name in Karnataka requires several legal formalities including affidavit preparation, document verification, and gazette publication. The process often becomes confusing due to varying state-level documentation norms and approval delays. Lawtendo simplifies this by managing every legal and procedural step with precision, accuracy, and complete transparency.

1. Legal Assessment and Identity Verification
   Lawtendo starts by conducting a thorough assessment of your identity and documents. This includes reviewing your age proof, address proof, and educational certificates to ensure they are consistent and error-free. Any missing record or discrepancy such as an outdated spelling or incomplete succession certificate is corrected before filing.
2. Preparation and Notarization of Affidavit
   An affidavit declaring your old and new name is the first legal requirement. Lawtendo drafts the affidavit in the correct legal format, clearly stating the reason for the name change. It is then notarized to give it official standing and to meet the Karnataka Gazette’s documentation requirements.
3. Detailed Document Verification
   Every record including your Aadhaar card, PAN, passport, and birth certificate undergoes a detailed document verification process. Lawtendo ensures that all details are accurate and consistent across every document, reducing the likelihood of rejection by the publication department.
4. Newspaper Advertisement and Record Maintenance
   As part of the official process, Lawtendo assists in publishing the name change advertisement in both an English and a local language newspaper. These publications are preserved for future reference, especially for banks, government departments, and property verification needs.
5. Submission to Karnataka Gazette and Publication Tracking
   Once all documents are verified, Lawtendo submits the application to the Department of Printing, Stationery and Publications for gazette notification. The team tracks the progress of your application and provides regular updates on its publication status.
6. Final Validation and Record Updating
   After your name is officially published in the Karnataka Gazette, Lawtendo performs a final verification to ensure your new name is correctly reflected. The team also provides assistance in updating the change across all major records including Aadhaar, voter ID, and property documents.

Lawtendo turns the complex gazette name change process in Karnataka into a legally secure and stress-free experience, ensuring every step from affidavit to gazette publication—is handled efficiently and accurately.

Q1: What is the legal process for changing your name in Karnataka?
A: The legal process for a name change in Karnataka involves three main steps — preparing a name change affidavit, publishing your name change in two newspapers, and applying for Gazette notification through the Department of Printing, Stationery, and Publication in Bengaluru. Once your name is published in the Karnataka Gazette, it becomes legally recognized by all government and financial institutions.

Q2: Where can I apply for a Gazette name change in Karnataka?
A: You can apply at the Department of Printing, Stationery, and Publication, located near Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru. The process can be completed offline at the government office or through the official Karnataka Government Gazette portal for online submissions.

Q3: Who is eligible to apply for a name change in Karnataka?
A: Any Indian citizen residing in Karnataka can apply for a legal name change, including:

• Married individuals changing surname after marriage

• Divorced persons reverting to their maiden name

• People correcting spelling mistakes in documents

• Minors (with parental or guardian consent)

• Individuals changing names for numerological, religious, or personal reasons

• Transgender individuals updating identity after transition

Q4: What documents are required for name change in Karnataka?
A: The mandatory documents include:

• Duly signed affidavit for name change (on ₹100 stamp paper)

• Two passport-size photographs

• Aadhaar Card and PAN Card

• Address proof (voter ID, ration card, or passport)

• Copies of newspaper publications (one English and one Kannada)

• CD or digital copy of the name change matter in a prescribed format

• Supporting documents like marriage certificate or birth certificate (if applicable)

Q5: How do I prepare a name change affidavit in Karnataka?
A: The affidavit must be printed on ₹100 stamp paper, mentioning your old name, new name, and the reason for the change. It must be signed by you and attested by a Notary Public or First-Class Judicial Magistrate. This serves as your primary legal declaration.

Q6: How can I publish my name change in Karnataka newspapers?
A: You must publish your name change in one local Kannada newspaper and one English newspaper. The publication should include your old name, new name, address, and date of the affidavit. Popular newspapers include Vijaya Karnataka, Prajavani, and The Hindu.

Q7: How can I submit my name change for Gazette publication in Karnataka?
A: After completing the affidavit and newspaper publications, visit the Government Press in Bengaluru or apply through the online Gazette portal. Submit your application form, identity proofs, affidavit, newspaper clippings, and digital copy (CD) of your name change details. Pay the applicable Gazette publication fee to complete the process.

Q8: What is the Gazette notification fee for name change in Karnataka?
A: The fee ranges from ₹200 to ₹500, depending on whether you apply offline or online. Additional charges may apply for document verification or postal delivery of the Gazette copy.

Q9: How long does the Gazette name change process take in Karnataka?
A: The entire process typically takes 30 to 45 days. The affidavit and newspaper steps can be completed within a week, and Gazette publication generally takes 3 to 4 weeks after successful submission and verification.

Q10: Can I apply for a name change online in Karnataka?
A: Yes. The Karnataka Government Gazette portal allows you to apply online, upload documents, pay fees digitally, and track your Gazette status without visiting the office in person.

Q11: How can I check my name change status in the Karnataka Gazette?
A: You can check the publication status on the Karnataka Government Press website under the “Gazette Notifications” section. Enter your application number or name to verify whether your Gazette has been published.

Q12: What are common reasons for Gazette name change application rejection in Karnataka?
A: Rejections typically occur due to:

• Incomplete or unsigned affidavit

• Missing or incorrect newspaper clippings

• Mismatched details between documents and affidavit

• Submission without a digital copy (CD) of the name change matter

• Unattested or unverifiable ID proofs

Q13: Is Gazette notification mandatory for changing your name in Karnataka?
A: Yes. The Gazette publication is the final and legally binding proof of your name change. It is required to update your name in Aadhaar, PAN, passport, bank accounts, and all official government records.

Q14: Can minors change their names in Karnataka?
A: Yes. Parents or legal guardians can apply for a minor’s name change by preparing the affidavit on behalf of the child, providing the birth certificate, and submitting relevant ID and address proofs. The Gazette notification will then record the child’s new name legally.

Q15: How can I update my documents after Gazette publication in Karnataka?
A: Once your Gazette notification is issued, you can use it to update your name in Aadhaar, PAN, voter ID, passport, driving license, and bank accounts. The Gazette copy acts as legal evidence supporting the name change across all platforms.

Conclusion

Changing your name in Karnataka through a Gazette notification is an important legal procedure that officially validates your new identity across all government and personal documents. The process involves preparing a legal affidavit, publishing a newspaper announcement, and submitting your application to the Karnataka Gazette Department for final approval.

While the steps may appear simple, missing documents or incorrect formatting can lead to unnecessary delays or rejection. Lawtendo’s experienced legal professionals ensure your name change process in Karnataka is smooth, accurate, and legally compliant from start to finish.

Whether you are changing your name after marriage, divorce, or for personal reasons, Lawtendo simplifies every stage of the Gazette notification process. Get in touch today to make your name change official and recognized under Karnataka law without any hassle.

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