PAN rules: What changes from April 1, 2026 and what you should do now

Several important changes related to PAN (Permanent Account Number) Card applications are on the way, as highlighted by CSC e-Governance Services India Limited through its recent social media post on X (formerly known as Twitter). These updates will come into effect from April 1, 2026.

PAN application rules are set to change from April 1, 2026, making it important for individuals to act before the deadline.

Applicants can currently apply for a PAN Card using only Aadhaar until March 31, 2026, from April 1, 2026 additional documents will be required to apply for PAN. This makes it the last opportunity to get a PAN easily through the simplified Aadhaar-based process.

From April 1, 2026 you may need to submit a birth certificate, voter ID, passport, driving licence, matric certificate and other govt documents.

From April 1, 2026 PAN name will be as per Aadhaar only. Applicants should ensure Aadhaar details are correct.

New PAN application forms are expected to be introduced soon as part of the updated process, replacing the existing formats. From April 1, 2026, the current (old) PAN forms will no longer be accepted for fresh applications or updates.

Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a ten-digit alpha numeric number, issued in the form of a laminated card, by the Income Tax Department, to any “person” who applies for it or to whom the department allots the number without an application. PAN enables the department to link all transactions of the “person” with the department.