Most people searching for a gazette name change in Mumbai want three answers: how much it costs, how many days it takes, and what can go wrong. This guide answers those questions for the Maharashtra Government Gazette, published online by the Directorate of Government Printing, Stationery and Publications (DGPS). For the full process, see name change in the Maharashtra Gazette.
Quick answers
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where to apply | Online, through the DGPS e-Gazette (Part II) service, also linked from the Aaple Sarkar portal |
| Government fee | The fee prescribed by the department, shown on the portal at the time of payment (it can change, so check the portal) |
| Time to publish | The department’s stated service period is 15 days; there is no urgent or instant service |
| Office visit needed? | Ordinarily no; the application, payment and download are online |
| Can the application be edited? | No. Once submitted, it cannot be corrected; a mistake usually means a fresh application |
Fees and procedures are revised from time to time. Always check the amount shown on the portal before paying, and be wary of agents quoting a “government fee” far above it.
How many days does it take?
The e-Gazette service is notified under the Maharashtra Right to Public Services Act, 2015, and the department states a period of 15 days. In practice:
- the clock runs from a complete, correctly filed application, not from your first attempt;
- applications with unclear scans, mismatched names or missing supporting documents are sent back or rejected, which restarts the wait;
- after publication, you can download the gazette notification from the portal.
Is a newspaper advertisement needed?
The Maharashtra State e-Gazette application does not ordinarily require newspaper advertisements as part of the application. However, some authorities ask for them when you later update records. For example, the Passport Office has its own document list for change of name. If you know which authority you will approach, check its requirements first, so you do the newspaper advertisement at the same time if needed.
Maharashtra Gazette or Gazette of India?
For most residents of Maharashtra, the State Gazette through DGPS is the usual route. The differences in process, cost and who should use which are explained in Gazette of India or Maharashtra Gazette: which one.
What does “approved by DGPS” mean?
An application status showing approval means the department has accepted the application for publication. It is not the final proof. The proof is the published gazette notification, which you download and use to update your other records. To check the status and download the PDF, see DGPS gazette status and download.
Common reasons for rejection or delay
- The old name does not exactly match the supporting identity document.
- Spelling errors in the new name; the gazette prints exactly what you enter.
- Photograph or scans not in the prescribed size and format (the portal specifies a small JPEG photograph).
- Missing supporting document for the reason given, such as a marriage certificate for a surname change after marriage, or a divorce decree.
- For a minor, the application not signed by a parent or guardian, or no birth certificate.
- Choosing the wrong category: name, date of birth, religion or miscellaneous.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get my name changed in the gazette urgently?
No urgent service is offered for the State e-Gazette. Plan for about 15 days after a complete application.
Is the gazette enough to change my name everywhere?
No. It is proof of the change. Each record must be updated separately. See updating Aadhaar, PAN, passport and bank records.
Can I change only my surname?
Yes. A surname change is a name change in the gazette. After marriage, it may not even be necessary; see name change after marriage.
Can I change my child’s name?
Yes. The parent or guardian applies on the child’s behalf, usually with the birth certificate.
See also: what DGPS and the e-Gazette are and the gazette office in Mumbai.
Consultations are by appointment. To fix a time, telephone +91 99301 50560 or send a message on WhatsApp.
This guide describes general procedure as understood in October 2026. It is not legal advice; fees and requirements change, so confirm them on the DGPS portal before applying.
Free download: Affidavit for change of name: format (PDF) · all free formats
Related guides
- Spelling Mistake or Name Change: When a Gazette Is Needed
- Going Back to Your Maiden Name After Divorce
- Gazette of India or Maharashtra Gazette?
- DGPS Gazette Status and PDF Download: What “Approved by DGPS” Means