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PAN Card: If you are planning to apply for a new PAN card, this news is of utmost importance to you. Please note that a major change has been implemented in the PAN application process, effective from April 1, 2026. Under this new framework, four new forms—Forms 93, 94, 95, and 96—have been introduced to replace the previous forms used for obtaining a PAN card. The objective of these changes is to simplify and streamline the process, thereby minimizing the difficulties applicants face while filling out the forms. In light of this, let us understand which specific form you are now required to fill out.

Which Form Should You Fill Out for a PAN Application?
The government has categorized PAN applications into distinct groups, ensuring that every individual and entity can select the appropriate form best suited to their specific requirements.

Form 93: For citizens of India.
Form 94: For companies or entities registered in India.
Form 95: For foreign citizens and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) seeking a PAN in India.
Form 96: For companies or entities registered outside India.
This new system is expected to reduce confusion and make the application process significantly clearer.

Why Were the Old Forms Discontinued?
Previously, only two forms were used for PAN card applications: Form 49A (for Indian citizens) and Form 49AA (for foreign citizens). However, these forms often requested information about various distinct categories of people within a single document, which frequently made the process of filling them out cumbersome. By introducing four new forms, the government has now designated specific information requirements for each category, thereby simplifying the form-filling experience.

What Are the Major Changes in the New PAN Forms?
The new forms have been designed to be significantly more user-friendly than their predecessors. Key changes include:

Each form now requests only the essential information relevant to that specific category.
Providing a mobile number and an email address has been made mandatory.
All updates regarding the application will now be delivered directly to the applicant's mobile phone and email address.
The required size for photographs has been increased to ensure clearer identification.
Additionally, all non-essential columns and fields have been removed. Also Read: Get a Loan of Up to ₹20 Lakhs Without Collateral—Learn About the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana and Who Benefits from It.

What Has Changed for Indian Citizens?
Certain specific rules have been implemented for the citizens of India. These include:

It is mandatory to provide your full and accurate name so that it can be matched with your Aadhaar details.
Providing your mother's name has now been made mandatory.
You must declare your Residential Status (Resident/Non-Resident).
You can now have your PAN card delivered to your office address as well; however, this requires the submission of additional supporting documents.

In light of this, if you intend to apply for a PAN card after April 1, 2026, you should first identify your specific category and select the appropriate form accordingly. Filling out the correct form will ensure that your application is processed quickly and without any errors.

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