Gazette for change of gender

Every individual has the right to live with dignity and identity. In India, the Constitution gives people the freedom to choose their gender identity. Many people, especially members of the transgender community or those undergoing gender transition, wish to change their gender in official records.

The most secure way to make this change legally valid is by publishing it in the Gazette of India. A Gazette notification for change of gender provides permanent, government-approved proof of your new gender identity.

This blog explains the complete process of Gazette for gender change in India – requirements, documents, step-by-step procedure, FAQs, and why Gazette notification is so important.

What is Gazette Notification for Gender Change?

The Gazette of India is the official publication of the Government of India, managed by the Department of Publication, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

It records identity changes such as:

  • Name change
  • Surname change
  • Date of birth correction
  • Religion change
  • Gender change

When a person transitions from male to female, female to male, or identifies as transgender, publishing this in the Gazette ensures the change is legally recognized across all government and private records.

Why is Gazette Publication Important for Gender Change?

Changing gender is not just a personal step; it also involves updating legal documents like Aadhaar, PAN, voter ID, and passport. Gazette notification makes this process smooth.

Benefits of Gazette publication for gender change:

  • Legal recognition of new gender identity.
  • Easy updation in official records like Aadhaar, passport, driving license, bank accounts, and educational certificates.
  • Permanent government proof that cannot be challenged.
  • Helps in avoiding disputes in jobs, education, or legal matters.
  • Ensures dignity, acceptance, and respect in society.

👉 Example: If a person named Ravi Kumar (male) transitions to Riya Kumar (female), a gazette notification ensures that government offices and institutions accept the gender change without objections.

Step-by-Step Process for Gazette Notification of Gender Change

Step 1: Prepare an Affidavit

  • Draft an affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper.
  • Clearly mention:
    • Old gender and new gender
    • Full name and father’s/mother’s name
    • Date of birth and address
    • A statement confirming the change of gender by free will
  • Sign and notarize the affidavit.

Step 2: Publish Newspaper Advertisement

  • Publish a notice of gender change in two newspapers:
    • One in English
    • One in a regional language
  • The notice should mention the old and new gender along with personal details.
  • Preserve copies for submission.

Step 3: Collect Required Documents

  • Notarized affidavit of gender change
  • Copies of newspaper advertisements
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Identity proofs (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, etc.)
  • Address proof (utility bill, ration card, etc.)
  • Medical certificate or self-declaration (in some cases)
  • Signed application form for Gazette publication

Step 4: Submit to Gazette Office

  • Submit the documents to the Department of Publication, New Delhi, or apply through an authorized agent.
  • Pay the applicable Gazette notification fee.

Step 5: Gazette Publication

  • After verification, your new gender will be published in the Official Gazette of India.
  • This Gazette copy will serve as permanent proof for all future legal and official purposes.

Documents Required for Gazette Notification of Gender Change

  • Affidavit of gender change
  • Two newspaper publication copies
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Identity proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, passport, PAN card)
  • Address proof (ration card, electricity bill, etc.)
  • Medical certificate (optional, depending on case)

Application form with signature

How Long Does the Process Take?

The Gazette process generally takes 30–60 days, depending on verification and publication schedules.

Important Legal Aspects

  • Gazette notification is not compulsory but is highly recommended for official recognition.
  • The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, allows individuals to self-identify as male, female, or transgender.

For legal safety and acceptance, Gazette publication is the most reliable method.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting incomplete documents
  • Not keeping copies of newspaper ads
  • Wrong affidavit format

Delay in application submission

FAQs on Gazette for Gender Change

Not mandatory, but strongly recommended, as it provides government-approved proof.

Yes, you can apply for both together.

 Not always. Self-declaration is usually accepted, but some authorities may request a medical certificate.

 Yes, Gazette copy is valid proof for updating Aadhaar, passport, PAN, and other records.

Usually 1–2 months.

Voice Search Optimized Queries

  • “How to change gender legally in India?”
  • “Gazette notification for gender change process”
  • “Documents required for Gazette gender change”
  • “Is Gazette compulsory for gender change in India?”
  • “How much time does Gazette gender change take?”

Summary – Gazette for Change of Gender

  • Every citizen has the right to choose their gender identity.
  • Gazette notification ensures the change is legally recognized and accepted in government records.
  • The process involves affidavit preparation, newspaper publication, document submission, and Gazette publication.
  • It usually takes 30–60 days.
  • The Gazette copy acts as permanent proof for updating Aadhaar, passport, and other documents.

👉 If you want your gender change to be officially recognized across India, completing the Gazette notification process is the safest and most reliable step.

Like it? Share it with friends: