New Delhi, March 19 (IPU Media Update News): New regulations regarding applications for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) are set to come into effect across the country starting April 1st. The current application process—which relies solely on Aadhaar—is coming to an end, and the requirements regarding the documents to be submitted are becoming more stringent. The deadline for applying for a PAN using only an Aadhaar card expires on March 31st. From the 2026-27 financial year onwards, individuals applying for a PAN will be required to submit a birth certificate in addition to their Aadhaar card.

Documents acceptable as “Proof of Birth” include a birth certificate, Voter ID card, passport, driving license, SSC (10th Grade) certificate, and affidavits issued by a Magistrate. On Wednesday, the Common Services Centers (CSCs) announced via their social media account that they would no longer accept applications submitted under the old PAN application format starting April 1st.

** Key PAN Card Regulation Changes (Effective April 1, 2026)**

1 * Mandatory Birth Proof: A separate, valid document validating the date of birth (DOB) is now required alongside Aadhaar. Accepted documents include Birth Certificates, Passports, Voter ID cards, or Matriculation Certificates.

2 * Aadhaar-Only Process Ends :

Using just the Aadhaar number to apply for or update a PAN card will not be valid after March 31, 2026.

3 * Exact Name Match:

The name on the PAN application must strictly align with the name as it appears on the Aadhaar card.

4 * New Application Forms: The existing PAN application forms will be discontinued, and new, revised forms will be introduced, as noted by the Common Services Centres

5 * Goal of the Revision :

This update is intended to enhance the security and validity of PAN applications, ensuring accurate identification and improving the accuracy of records for the Income Tax Department.

6 * Recommended Action:
Ensure all new PAN applications are filed with both Aadhaar and a separate date of birth proof before March 31, 2026, to avoid complications or application rejection under the old system.

— M Venkata T Reddy, News Editor And Investigative Journalist.