NameSwift

FAQ – Name Change in Maharashtra (Aaple Sarkar + Gazette)

Everything you need to know about documents, process, fees, timelines, minors, marriage/divorce, tracking, and more.

Is newspaper ad required?

No for Gazette via Aaple Sarkar route. Affidavit + ID/Address proofs are key. Some institutions may still request ads—optional.

Standard Service Fee

₹1,800 (one-time) by NameSwift. Government Gazette fee is separate and paid on the official portal.

Typical Timeline

~10–30 working days after complete submission to Gazette. Can vary with case load and document checks.

Apply Online

Register or Login to start and track your application.

Note: Procedures/fees can change. Always follow instructions shown during submission.
Is Aaple Sarkar fully online for name change?

Aaple Sarkar provides the state interface and guidance in Maharashtra. The final legal proof is the Gazette Notification. Parts of the process can be completed online (account creation, document upload, fee payment). Core requirements remain: valid ID/Address proof, affidavit (if you don’t have any new-name proof like marriage/divorce/court order), and a recent photo.

Is a newspaper advertisement compulsory?

No. For Maharashtra Gazette via Aaple Sarkar/e-Gazette, a newspaper ad is not mandatory. Some banks/organizations may still ask for it as a legacy practice. NameSwift does not require it unless you want one for personal records.

What documents are required?
  • Identity Proof (old name): Aadhaar / PAN / Passport / Voter ID / DL
  • Address Proof: Aadhaar / Passport / Utility bill / Bank statement
  • Affidavit (notarized): Required if you lack any official proof showing the new name (e.g., not married/divorced/court order). We prepare the draft.
  • Recent passport size photo
  • Situation-specific: Marriage certificate, divorce decree, deed poll/court order (if applicable)
How long does the process take?

On average 10–30 working days after complete submission to the Gazette. Timelines depend on verification queues and public holidays. We keep you updated inside your dashboard.

What are the fees?
  • Government Gazette fee: varies by case type (adult/minor/marriage/correction). You pay it directly on the official portal during submission.
  • NameSwift Service Fee: ₹1,800 (one-time) — includes affidavit drafting, document review, portal guidance, and follow-up until Gazette publication.
  • Notary/Stamp: local stamp paper + notary charges (varies by locality).

We keep pricing transparent. See pricing on the home page for a snapshot.

Do I need an affidavit if I have a marriage certificate or court order?

If you already possess an official document that reflects/permits your new name (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order), an affidavit may not be necessary. Otherwise, a notarized affidavit is required. We prepare the correct format for your case.

Can minors apply? Who signs?

Yes. For applicants under 18, the parent/guardian applies and signs on the minor’s behalf. Additional proof of guardianship/relationship (birth certificate, etc.) may be requested.

What reasons are acceptable for name change?
  • Spelling correction
  • After marriage or divorce
  • Religious/personal reasons
  • Numerology/identity preference
  • Gender affirmation
  • Any other lawful reason not intended for fraud/misrepresentation
What happens after Gazette publication?

You receive a Gazette Notification PDF. Use it to update your records:

  • PAN, Aadhaar, Passport, DL
  • Banks, Insurance, Demat
  • Education boards, University, Employment records

We provide post-publication guidance with links to update common IDs.

Can NRIs/Out-of-state residents apply for Maharashtra Gazette?

Yes, if you can provide valid Indian identity/address proof and comply with document requirements. Some applicants prefer using the Central e-Gazette route. We guide you on the correct path based on your documents.

Will caste, rank, or titles be allowed in the new name?

Names must follow legal/administrative norms. Avoid misleading ranks/titles, numerals, symbols, or anything that may be considered offensive or deceptive. Final acceptance rests with the authority.

What if my application is rejected?

We’ll highlight the reason (e.g., missing/unclear document) and help you correct and re-submit. Most rejections are resolved by supplying a clearer affidavit or proper proof.

Do I need to change my signature?

Signature change is optional. If you change it, inform your banks and other institutions per their process. Name change does not automatically alter your signature.

Is address change required to change name?

No. Provide any valid address proof you currently hold. Name change is a separate process from address change.

How do I track my application on NameSwift?

Login to your dashboard → “Check Application Status”. You’ll see real-time updates: Pending, Under Review, Submitted to Gazette, Approved, or Rejected.

What file formats and sizes are accepted?

Prefer PDF/JPEG/PNG, clear scans, legible text, and under the size limits shown during upload. Use color scans for best results.

Data privacy & security

We store only what’s necessary, restrict internal access, and use secure connections. You can request deletion of your records once your process is completed, subject to legal retention norms.

Refunds & cancellations

Our ₹1,800 service fee covers drafting, review, and guidance. If you cancel before submission, we can process a partial refund (after deducting work already done). Government fees paid on official portals are non-refundable as per their policy.

Special cases (adoption, transgender, court order)

We support complex cases with appropriate documentation (adoption papers, gender affirmation documents, court orders). The document set varies—contact support for a tailored checklist.

Can I use a single name (mononym)?

Some systems require both given and family names. While a mononym may be accepted for Gazette, updating all IDs can be challenging. We recommend discussing implications before proceeding.

Still have questions?

Contact Support Start Application
Last updated: December 2025 • This page is for general guidance and not legal advice. Always follow instructions shown on the official portal during submission.