In Indian culture, it is common to change your name after marriage. You make the commitment to your soulmate by exchanging wedding vows. A name change is also a significant thing.
Most people don't know that surname changes after marriage are common. However, women have complete control over whether or not they want to do so. You don't have the obligation to change your surname or first name after marriage. There is no law that requires you to take your husband's name after the wedding. There are some perks to changing your wife's name after marriage, regardless of whether or not you choose to do so.
1. Paperwork is no hassle
It's easy to complete paperwork when you open joint bank accounts or purchase a property with your husband. It's not necessary to verify your identity or confirm your marital status. This is a great perk for legal matters.
2. 2. You don't have to reveal your first name
You don't need to disclose your first name to anyone if you share a common surname. This is particularly useful for social events when you meet new people but don't want your first name to be revealed.
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3. It's easy to admit your kids to school
It's easy to admit your children to school if you have the right attitude. Children can experience social stigma if their parents have different names. Your children won't feel uncomfortable or have to answer any personal questions if you share the same surname. Meetings between parents and teachers won't be so awkward, as teachers will know you are their official guardian.
4. You can get a marriage certificate
You don't normally get a marriage certificate if you keep your Indian name after you are married. If you request a name change, however, you will be issued a marriage certificate. This is a great tool for the future, especially if your spouse and you decide to move abroad or both apply for jobs in other countries.
In India, the law does not require women to change their last names after marriage. Married women are free to keep their maiden name as long as they wish. Changes in last names by adding the surname of the husband are done to identify her as his wife only.
Indian Courts have held that a woman can use her maiden middle name and surname even after marriage.
Importantly, if she uses her maiden name while enrolling in the concerned electronic roll, she does not need to change her maiden name for any reason.
This dilemma affects almost every Indian woman who has ever had a shaadi. You can either go traditional and change your surname, keep doing what you've done since birth, or opt for the trendy new-age Kareena Khan Khan' or Aishwarya Rai Chan'. Here are the advantages and disadvantages to changing your name after marriage.
Change your name for these benefits:
It seals the deal. It makes things legal and allows society to function properly.
Avoid confusion and explain
Future paperwork will be easier for properties and joint accounts
If you truly want to, you can always start over
Future Children can now say Mr. & Mrs.
There are many reasons to keep your maiden name.
Your brand identity is your name.
All your PAN Cards and passports are already in your possession!
It is worth considering if your husband has a disliked surname.
All the paperwork is too much for you to handle.
Both of you think it isn't a big deal, no matter what the name.
It's a big decision for many of us considering our identity is at stake... and all the paperwork that goes with it. It's not as easy as just filling out a form. There's lots of paperwork involved, as the name must be changed on documents such as the passport, Aadhar card and driving license. You can see the full list here. Et cetera. The list is quite long, considering how much has changed since the days when women didn't have as many documents to alter.
If you are still unsure, here are the details on how to change your surname.
You can change your name in India in two ways.
Request a name change in state government gazette. This is open to everyone who wishes to change their name.
You can also apply for the marriage certificate at Registrar's Office to change your name.
After the name has been officially altered in one of these ways the next step is to alter the name on important documents. You will need a joint notarized affidavit that includes your maiden name, your new surname, photos, and both of your signatures.
The process for applying for the PAN card is the same as the application for a new card. The card will have the same number as the old one, but with a different name. You will need to submit proof of name change, as well as a joint notarized affidavit and the old PAN card. Once you have submitted the proof of name change, a joint notarised affidavit as well as the old PAN card, make sure to update your income tax papers.
Next, you should update all of your banking relationships. You might need to provide proof of your marriage certificate, and sometimes a joint notorised statement and proof of identity for the husband.
If you wish to alter your passport's name, you will need to apply for a renewal. Also, you will need to submit your marriage certificate and the original passport along with a photocopy that has been self-attested. You can apply for a passport with your new name if you don't already have one.
If you wish to retain your personal name but want your passport to reflect your husband's name, this is a good solution. This will save you visa hassles and give you proof of marriage. However, you can still keep your original name.
You must change your name in all financial and legal documents, including shares, loans, investments and life insurance. All financial and legal documents should be consistent.
All this takes time because India is India. It can take more than two months and much running around to change the name on all important documents. So be patient!
Have you ever considered changing your name after your wedding?
