The Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a crucial document in India, serving as a unique identifier for tax-related purposes. Issued by the Income Tax Department, this 10-character alphanumeric code is essential for various financial transactions and tax filings.

Whether you’re opening a bank account, applying for a loan, or filing your income tax returns, a PAN card is often a mandatory requirement.

Who Can Apply for a PAN Card?

The process of applying for a PAN card in India is designed to accommodate both Indian citizens and foreign nationals. Below is a detailed overview of the eligibility criteria and application forms required for different applicants:

1. Indian Citizens

  • Eligibility: Any Indian citizen, whether residing in India or abroad, can apply for a PAN card.
  • Application Form: Use Form 49A (Application for Allotment of New PAN).

2. Foreign Citizens

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals can also apply for a PAN card in India.
  • Application Form: Use Form 49AA for submitting the application.
  • Exception: Qualified Foreign Investors (QFIs) must follow a separate application process through a Depository Participant.

Categories of PAN Applicants

The PAN application process accommodates various categories of applicants based on their entity type. The following are the eligible categories:

  1. Individual
  2. Association of Persons (AOP)
  3. Body of Individuals (BOI)
  4. Company
  5. Trust
  6. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
  7. Firm
  8. Government
  9. Hindu Undivided Family (HUF)
  10. Artificial Juridical Person
  11. Local Authority

Each category may have specific documentation and requirements to complete the PAN card application. Ensure to review the guidelines for the respective category before submission.

How to Apply for a PAN Card Online

Obtaining a PAN card has become more convenient with the introduction of online applications.

An individual/organization can apply for a PAN card online through:

  • Option 1: Through NSDL Portal
  • Option 2: Through UTIITSL Portal

Option 1: Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

If you’re looking to apply for a new PAN (Permanent Account Number) card, the process is straightforward and can be done online via the NSDL (now Protean eGov Technologies Limited) website. Follow these detailed steps to complete your application successfully, including uploading your desired photo, signature, and documents.

Step 1: Visit the Official NSDL Website

Step 2: Select the Application Type and Category

  • Choose Application Type as “New PAN – Indian Citizen (Form 49A).”

Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

  • Under Category, select “Individual” if you are applying for yourself.

Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

  • Fill in the details like:
    • Title: Choose Mr., Mrs., or Miss based on your status.
    • Name: Enter your last name, first name, and middle name as per your ID proof.
    • Date of Birth: Use the calendar option to select your birthdate.
    • Email ID and Mobile Number: Ensure these are active for OTP verification.
  • Now, click on the declaration box.
  • Tick the Captcha Code box.

Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

Step 3: Generate Token Number

  • After filling in the initial details, click Submit.
  • A Token Number will be generated. Save this number for future reference.
  • Click on Continue with PAN Application Form.

Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

Step 4: Select the Submission Option

  • Choose how you want to submit your documents:
    • Paperless e-KYC through Aadhaar: Use Aadhaar for online verification.
    • Submit Scanned Images through e-Sign: Upload scanned images of your photo and signature.
    • Forward Physical Documents: Send physical copies of the documents via post.

For most convenience, select Submit Scanned Images through e-Sign.

Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

Step 5: Fill Personal and Contact Details

  • Provide additional details:
    • Father’s or Mother’s Name: You can choose which parent’s name will appear on the PAN card.

 

    • Address: Select Residential or Office Address and fill in the address fields like flat number, street, district, state, and pin code.

  • Choose your Income Source:
    • For no income, select “No Income.”
    • For salaried individuals, select “Income from Salary.”
  • Enter your communication preferences and click Next.

Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

Step 6: Provide AO Code

  • The AO (Assessing Officer) Code will usually be auto-filled based on your state and district. If not, search for your AO code based on your location.
  • Confirm the details and click Next.

Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

Step 7: Upload Required Documents

  • Select proof for:
    • Identity Proof (e.g., Aadhaar, Passport).
    • Address Proof (e.g., Aadhaar, Electricity Bill).
    • Date of Birth Proof (e.g., Aadhaar, Birth Certificate).
  • Upload documents in PDF format.
    • To create a PDF, use an online converter if necessary.
  • Upload your Photo and Signature:
    • Ensure the photo is in JPEG format with a maximum size of 50KB and 200 DPI resolution.
    • Resize the image using an online tool if needed.
  • Upload your signature in JPEG format with similar specifications.

Apply for PAN Card Online Through NSDL Portal

Step 8: Declaration and Verification

  • Fill in the declaration form with your name and place.
  • Review the information carefully. Use the Edit option if corrections are needed.
  • If all details are correct, click Proceed.

Step 9: Make Payment

  • Choose the payment method:
    • Credit/Debit Card
    • Net Banking
    • Demand Draft
  • The fees depend on the type of card you choose:
    • For a Physical PAN Card: ₹107 (₹1,011 for foreign addresses).
    • For an e-PAN: ₹72.
  • After successful payment, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt.

Step 10: Submit Application and Complete e-KYC

  • For Aadhaar-linked applications:
    • Authenticate using an OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
    • Your application will be submitted digitally.
  • If sending documents physically:
    • Print the acknowledgment form, affix your photo, and sign in the designated spaces.
    • Send the form with supporting documents to the address mentioned.

Step 11: Track Application Status

  • Use your acknowledgment number to track your application status on the NSDL website.

Option 2: Apply for PAN Card Online Through UTIITSL

Applying for a PAN (Permanent Account Number) card is now a quick and straightforward process through the UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited) website. Here, we provide a step-by-step guide for applying for a PAN card using Aadhaar-based e-KYC. 

Step 1: Visit the UTIITSL Website

  1. Open any web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
  2. Search for “Apply for PAN Card UTIITSL” and click on the official UTIITSL link (https://www.pan.utiitsl.com).

Step 2: Select the Application Type

  1. On the UTIITSL home page, find the ‘Apply for New PAN Card’ option.
  2. Click on this option to proceed.

Step 3: Choose the Application Mode

  1. Select Digital Mode (preferred over Physical Mode for faster processing).
  2. Choose Aadhaar-Based e-KYC for verification. This ensures minimal documentation.

Step 4: Specify the Type of PAN Card

  1. Select Both Physical PAN Card and e-PAN Card if you want a physical copy sent to your address and a digital copy emailed.
  2. Alternatively, choose only the e-PAN Card for a digital copy sent via email.

Step 5: Fill Out the PAN Application Form

  1. A unique Reference Number will be generated. Note this number for future reference.
  2. Begin filling out your Personal Details:
    • Title: Mr./Ms./Mrs.
    • Surname
    • First Name and Middle Name
    • Name as it should appear on the PAN card.
  3. Other Details:
    • Gender
    • Date of Birth (select from the calendar provided).
    • Aadhaar Number (ensure it matches your Aadhaar card details).

Step 6: Communication Address

  1. Your address will be fetched automatically from Aadhaar. No need to manually input details.

Step 7: Contact Details

  1. Provide your Mobile Number and Email ID for communication.

Step 8: Parent’s Details

  1. Enter your father’s name (mandatory).
  2. Mother’s name is optional.

Step 9: Source of Income

  1. Choose your income source:
    • Salary
    • Business/Profession
    • Other Income
    • No Income (if applicable).

Step 10: Verify and Submit the Application

  1. Review the entire form to ensure accuracy.
  2. Click on Next to proceed to the payment section.

Step 11: Make Payment

  1. Click on Make Payment to proceed.
  2. Payment Options:
    • Credit/Debit Card
    • Net Banking
    • UPI/QR Code
  3. Complete the payment. After a successful transaction, you’ll be redirected back to the portal.

Step 12: Aadhaar-Based e-KYC

  1. Enter the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
  2. Agree to the terms and click Submit.

Step 13: Assign AO Code

  1. Click Get AO Code to automatically fetch your jurisdictional AO code.
  2. Verify the details.

Step 14: e-Sign the Application

  1. Enter your Aadhaar number again and generate an OTP.
  2. Input the OTP received on your registered mobile number and click Submit.

Step 15: Download and Review Application

  1. After submission, you’ll see an option to Print or Download your application.
  2. Save a copy for your records.

Final Steps: PAN Card Delivery

  • e-PAN Card: Delivered to your email within 2 working days.
  • Physical PAN Card: Delivered to your Aadhaar-registered address within 15–20 days.

PAN Card Payment Details

The fees for your PAN card application vary based on two factors:

  1. Whether you’re requesting a physical PAN card or an e-PAN card
  2. Your communication address (within India or abroad)

Let’s break down the fee structure:

A) For Physical PAN Card

Applications submitted online with physical documents:

Sr. No.ParticularsFees (excl. taxes) (₹)Fees (incl. taxes) (₹)
1Dispatch within India91107
2Dispatch outside India8621,017

Applications submitted online through paperless modes:

Sr. No.ParticularsFees (excl. taxes) (₹)Fees (incl. taxes) (₹)
1Dispatch within India86101
2Dispatch outside India8571,011

B) For e-PAN Card (Physical Card Not Required)

Applications submitted online with physical documents:

Sr. No.ParticularsFees (excl. taxes) (₹)Fees (incl. taxes) (₹)
1e-PAN sent via email6172

Applications submitted online through paperless modes:

Sr. No.ParticularsFees (excl. taxes) (₹)Fees (incl. taxes) (₹)
1e-PAN sent via email5666

Need Help? Contact Information for PAN-Related Queries

If you have any questions or need assistance during the PAN application process, don’t hesitate to reach out:

  • Call the PAN/TDS Call Centre: 020 – 27218080
  • Fax: 020-27218081
  • Email: tininfo@proteantech.in
  • SMS: Text ‘NSDLPAN <space> 15 digit Acknowledgment No.’ to 57575 for application status
  • Postal Address: INCOME TAX PAN SERVICES UNIT (Managed by Protean eGov Technologies Limited), 4th Floor, Sapphire Chambers, Baner Road, Baner, Pune – 411045.