How to Apply PAN Card from UK

For Indian nationals residing in the United Kingdom, obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card remains a critical requirement for managing financial, tax, and investment-related matters tied to India. Whether you’re sending money home, investing in Indian mutual funds, purchasing property, or filing tax returns in India, a PAN card is mandatory under the Income Tax Department’s regulations. Despite being abroad, the process to apply for a PAN card from the UK is straightforward, secure, and fully digitized. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step—from eligibility and documentation to submission and tracking—ensuring you can successfully obtain your PAN card without needing to return to India.

The PAN card serves as a unique identifier for all financial transactions in India. Issued by the Income Tax Department under the supervision of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), it links all financial activities of an individual to a single number. For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) living in the UK, having a PAN card simplifies compliance with Indian tax laws, enables seamless remittances through banks, and ensures eligibility for opening Non-Resident External (NRE) or Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) accounts. Without it, many financial services in India become inaccessible or subject to higher withholding taxes.

Thanks to advancements in digital infrastructure and partnerships between Indian government agencies and authorized service providers, applying for a PAN card from the UK is now more efficient than ever. You can complete the entire process online, upload documents digitally, and receive your PAN card by post—no physical visits required. This guide demystifies the entire procedure, equipping you with the knowledge to apply confidently, avoid common pitfalls, and expedite approval.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before initiating the application, verify that you qualify for a PAN card. The following categories of individuals residing in the UK are eligible:

• Indian citizens living abroad (NRIs)
• Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) holding foreign passports
• Foreign nationals with financial interests in India (e.g., property owners, investors, business partners)

There is no requirement to be physically present in India. As long as you can provide valid proof of identity, address, and Indian nationality or origin, your application will be processed. If you hold a British passport but have Indian ancestry, you may still qualify under the PIO category, provided you can substantiate your lineage.

Step 2: Choose the Correct Application Form

The Income Tax Department of India offers two forms for PAN applications: Form 49A and Form 49AA. As a UK resident, you must use Form 49AA, which is specifically designed for foreign citizens and NRIs. Form 49A is only for Indian residents.

Form 49AA can be downloaded directly from the official websites of authorized PAN service providers:

• NSDL e-Gov
• UTIITSL

Both NSDL and UTIITSL are government-authorized agencies responsible for processing PAN applications. You may choose either platform; the process and requirements are nearly identical. For ease of use and international accessibility, NSDL’s portal is often preferred by UK applicants due to its multilingual interface and clearer instructions for overseas users.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Accurate and complete documentation is essential to prevent delays or rejection. You must submit two types of documents: proof of identity and proof of address. Both must be self-attested and clearly legible.

Proof of Identity (One Required)

Acceptable documents include:

• Copy of your Indian passport (valid or expired, but issued within the last 10 years)
• Copy of your overseas passport (if you are a PIO or foreign national) with Indian place of birth listed
• Copy of your Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card

If you are applying based on your Indian passport, ensure it includes your signature and photograph. If your passport is lost or expired, you may submit a copy of your birth certificate issued by an Indian municipal authority, along with a sworn affidavit attested by the Indian High Commission in London.

Proof of Address (One Required)

Acceptable documents include:

• UK driving license
• UK utility bill (electricity, water, gas) issued within the last three months
• UK bank statement or credit card statement issued within the last three months
• Residence permit or visa stamped in your passport
• Letter from the Indian High Commission in London confirming your address

Documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation. Scanned copies are acceptable, but ensure they are high-resolution, color, and show all details clearly—no cropping or blurring.

Step 4: Complete Form 49AA Online

Visit the NSDL or UTIITSL website and navigate to the PAN application section. Select “Apply for New PAN – Form 49AA.”

Fill in the form carefully:

• Personal Details: Enter your full name as it appears on your passport. Middle names and suffixes must match exactly.
• Country of Residence: Select “United Kingdom.”
• Address in India (if any): If you own property or have a family address in India, provide it. If not, leave blank or write “N/A.”
• Address in UK: Provide your current residential address in the UK, including postal code.
• Phone Number: Include your international dialing code (+44) and mobile number.
• Email Address: Use a reliable, regularly checked email. All correspondence will be sent here.
• Source of Income: Select the most appropriate category (e.g., Salary, Business, Investment Income).
• Category: Choose “Individual” unless you are applying on behalf of a company or trust.

Double-check all entries. Even minor discrepancies—such as a missing hyphen in your surname or a mismatched date of birth—can lead to rejection. Once completed, save a PDF copy of the filled form for your records.

Step 5: Upload Documents

After submitting your form, you will be prompted to upload scanned copies of your documents. Ensure each file meets the following criteria:

• File format: PDF, JPG, or JPEG
• Maximum file size: 100 KB per document
• Resolution: Minimum 150 dpi
• Color: Must be in color, not grayscale

Upload the following in the correct fields:

• Proof of Identity (e.g., passport copy)
• Proof of Address (e.g., UK bank statement)
• Passport-sized photograph (3.5 cm x 2.5 cm, white background, no glasses or headgear)

Your photograph must be recent (taken within the last six months) and clearly show your face from the front. Avoid selfies, filters, or edited images. If you wear religious headgear, it must not obscure your face. The photo should be affixed to the printed copy of the form as well (see Step 6).

Step 6: Print, Sign, and Mail the Form

After uploading documents, you must print the completed Form 49AA. The system will generate a PDF with a unique application number. Print two copies.

On each copy:

• Sign in blue ink in the designated space
• Attach one passport-sized photograph
• Do not staple or laminate

Mail both copies via international courier to the address provided on the NSDL or UTIITSL portal. For NSDL, the mailing address is:

NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Limited

5th Floor, Mantri Sterling, Plot No. 341, Survey No. 997/8, Model Colony,

Near Deep Bungalow Chowk, Pune – 411 016, Maharashtra, India

Use a trackable courier service such as DHL, FedEx, or UPS. Do not use regular postal mail, as it may be lost or delayed. Retain the tracking number and proof of postage. The application will not be processed until the physical documents are received.

Step 7: Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for PAN cards issued to applicants residing outside India is ₹1,011 (approximately £9.50). Payment must be made online during the form submission process.

Accepted payment methods include:

• Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• Net banking (via international banks)
• UPI (if linked to an Indian bank account)

Ensure your card supports international transactions. If you encounter payment errors, try using a different browser or contact your bank to authorize the transaction. Payment confirmation is immediate, and you will receive an email receipt.

Step 8: Track Your Application

After submitting your application and mailing the documents, you can track its status using your 15-digit acknowledgment number. Visit the NSDL or UTIITSL website and select “Track PAN Application Status.”

Processing typically takes 15–20 working days from the date the physical documents are received at the Pune office. You will receive email updates at each stage:

• Application received
• Documents verified
• PAN allotted
• PAN card dispatched

Your PAN card will be delivered via India Post to the address you provided in the UK. Delivery usually takes 7–10 days after dispatch. If you do not receive it within 30 days, contact the service provider using the tracking number.

Step 9: Receive and Verify Your PAN Card

Once your PAN card arrives, verify the following details:

• Name (exactly as on your passport)
• Date of Birth
• PAN number (5 letters, 4 digits, 1 letter)
• Photograph and signature

If any details are incorrect, immediately initiate a correction request via the same portal. Submit a corrected Form 49AA with supporting documents and a nominal fee. Do not use an incorrect PAN card for financial transactions.

Best Practices

Use a Dedicated Email Address

Create a separate email account solely for PAN-related communication. Avoid using shared or temporary email addresses. This ensures you don’t miss critical updates regarding document verification, payment failures, or delivery notifications.

Ensure Document Consistency

Every document you submit—passport, address proof, photograph—must reflect identical personal details. Even a discrepancy between your passport surname and your bank statement can trigger manual review and delay processing by weeks.

Do Not Submit Photocopies or Scanned Images from Mobile Phones

While mobile scans are acceptable, they often fail due to low resolution, shadows, or glare. Use a flatbed scanner or a professional document scanning service. If using a phone, ensure the document is placed on a plain white surface under bright, even lighting.

Apply Early for Tax Deadlines

If you plan to file Indian tax returns or transfer funds before the fiscal year-end (March 31), apply for your PAN card at least 6–8 weeks in advance. Delays in courier transit or document verification can cause missed deadlines and penalties.

Keep Digital and Physical Copies

Save digital copies of all submitted documents, the application form, payment receipt, and tracking number. Also, store the physical copy of the mailed form in a safe place. These may be required for future reference, audits, or corrections.

Use Official Portals Only

Many third-party websites offer “PAN application services” for a premium fee. Avoid them. Only use NSDL or UTIITSL’s official websites. Unauthorized agents may collect your data, charge extra fees, or submit incomplete applications.

Update Your Address if You Move

If you relocate within the UK after submitting your application, notify NSDL or UTIITSL immediately via email. While they cannot change the mailing address after dispatch, they can update your records for future correspondence.

Tools and Resources

Official Websites

• NSDL e-Gov PAN Portal – Primary portal for Form 49AA submission
• UTIITSL PAN Services – Alternative government-authorized platform
• Income Tax Department, India – Official regulatory body
• Indian High Commission, London – For attestation services and queries

Document Scanning Tools

For high-quality scans:

• Adobe Scan (Mobile App) – Automatically detects document edges and enhances clarity
• Microsoft Lens – Converts photos into PDFs with OCR text recognition
• Google Drive Scanner – Upload and scan documents directly from your phone

Payment Gateways

If your UK bank card is declined:

• Use a virtual prepaid card (e.g., Revolut, Wise) with INR or USD currency support
• Ask a family member in India to pay on your behalf using their net banking
• Use an Indian bank account linked to UPI (if available)

Address Verification Services

If you lack a UK utility bill or bank statement:

• Request a letter from your landlord or university accommodation office on official letterhead
• Obtain a council tax bill or tenancy agreement
• Contact the Indian High Commission for an address confirmation letter (requires appointment)

Language and Translation Support

If your documents are in Hindi or another Indian language:

• Use certified translation services from the UK’s Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI)
• Ensure translators stamp and sign the translation with their credentials
• Submit both original and translated versions

Real Examples

Example 1: NRI Working in London

Rajesh, an Indian citizen working in London as a software engineer, needed a PAN card to invest in Indian mutual funds. He applied using NSDL’s portal. He uploaded his Indian passport (valid until 2027), his UK bank statement from Barclays, and a recent passport photo taken at a professional studio. He paid ₹1,011 via his Visa card. He printed, signed, and mailed the form via DHL. Within 18 working days, he received his PAN card by post. He used it to open an NRE account with ICICI Bank and began investing in SIPs.

Example 2: PIO with US and UK Residency

Meera, born in Mumbai but holding a Canadian passport and residing in Manchester, applied for a PAN card to manage her inherited property in Delhi. She used Form 49AA and submitted her Canadian passport (showing place of birth as Mumbai), a UK council tax bill, and a notarized affidavit confirming her Indian origin. Her application was initially rejected due to a mismatch in her surname spelling between the affidavit and passport. She corrected the affidavit, resubmitted, and received her PAN within 22 days.

Example 3: Student Applying from Birmingham

Arjun, an Indian student studying in Birmingham, applied for a PAN card to receive scholarship payments from an Indian university. He used his expired Indian passport (issued 8 years ago), a student accommodation letter from the university, and a photo taken against a white wall with natural light. He submitted everything online and mailed the documents via Royal Mail. His application was processed in 25 days. He later used his PAN to open a digital wallet for tuition payments.

Example 4: Business Owner in Manchester

Sunita, an Indian entrepreneur running an import-export business from Manchester, needed a PAN to receive payments from Indian suppliers. She applied using her OCI card as proof of identity and a UK business bank statement as proof of address. She also submitted a certificate from Companies House confirming her business registration. Her application was approved in 16 days. She now uses her PAN to file GST returns for her Indian clients.

FAQs

Can I apply for a PAN card from the UK without an Indian passport?

Yes, if you are a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or hold an OCI card, you can use your foreign passport along with supporting documents proving Indian ancestry, such as a birth certificate of a parent or grandparent born in India.

How long does it take to get a PAN card from the UK?

Typically, 15–25 working days from the date your physical documents are received in Pune. Courier delays may extend this to 30–40 days.

Can I apply for a PAN card for my child in the UK?

Yes. Parents or legal guardians can apply for minors using Form 49AA. Submit the child’s birth certificate as proof of identity and your own passport and address proof as the guardian.

Is a photograph mandatory?

Yes. A recent, clear, color passport-sized photograph (3.5 cm x 2.5 cm) with a white background is mandatory and must be affixed to the printed form.

Can I change my name on the PAN card after receiving it?

Yes. You can apply for a correction using Form 49AA again, selecting “Change/Correction in PAN Data.” Submit supporting documents like a marriage certificate or deed poll for name change.

Do I need to pay tax just because I have a PAN card?

No. A PAN card is an identification number, not a tax liability trigger. You are only required to file tax returns in India if you earn income there or meet specific income thresholds.

What if my PAN card is lost or damaged?

You can apply for a duplicate PAN card using Form 49AA. Select “Reprint of PAN Card” and pay the applicable fee. Your existing PAN number remains unchanged.

Can I use my PAN card for online banking in India?

Yes. Most Indian banks require your PAN number to open or operate NRE/NRO accounts. It is also required for international money transfers above ₹50,000.

Is there an expedited service for urgent PAN applications?

No official expedited service exists. However, ensuring all documents are accurate and using a fast courier can reduce delays.

Can I apply for a PAN card if I have dual citizenship?

India does not recognize dual citizenship. If you have acquired British citizenship and renounced Indian citizenship, you are no longer eligible for a PAN card unless you hold an OCI card.

Conclusion

Applying for a PAN card from the UK is a well-structured, transparent, and entirely digital process that requires minimal physical effort but demands precision in documentation. Whether you are an NRI managing investments, a PIO inheriting property, or a student receiving scholarships, your PAN card is your gateway to seamless financial engagement with India. By following the steps outlined in this guide—selecting the correct form, gathering verified documents, paying through official channels, and using reliable courier services—you eliminate the risk of rejection and ensure timely delivery.

The key to success lies in attention to detail: matching names across documents, using high-quality scans, and avoiding third-party intermediaries. With the tools and resources provided, you can navigate the system confidently, even without prior experience. Remember, your PAN card is not just a piece of plastic—it is a vital financial key that unlocks access to India’s economy and ensures compliance with its tax framework.

As global mobility increases and cross-border financial ties strengthen, having a valid PAN card is no longer optional—it is essential. Apply today, keep your records updated, and ensure your financial future in India remains secure, transparent, and hassle-free.