How to Apply PAN Card From Us

The Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a unique 10-character alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It serves as a critical document for financial transactions, tax filings, opening bank accounts, purchasing high-value assets, and verifying identity. While the phrase “Apply PAN Card From Us” may suggest a private service, it is essential to understand that the PAN card is a government-issued document, and applications must be processed through authorized agencies such as NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited) or UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited). This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough for individuals seeking to apply for a PAN card through official channels—ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, a non-resident Indian, or a foreign national conducting business in India, obtaining a PAN card is not optional—it’s a legal requirement for most financial activities. Many applicants face confusion due to misinformation, third-party portals, or misleading advertisements. This tutorial clarifies the process, eliminates common errors, and equips you with the knowledge to apply successfully on your first attempt.

Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a PAN card involves a structured sequence of actions that must be followed precisely. Below is a detailed breakdown of the entire process, covering both online and offline methods, with emphasis on the most efficient and widely used digital route.

Understand the Types of PAN Applications

Before initiating your application, identify which category you fall under:

• Indian Citizens – Individuals residing in India, including minors and senior citizens.
• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) – Indian citizens living abroad with Indian origin or citizenship.
• Foreign Nationals – Individuals of non-Indian origin conducting business or earning income in India.
• Companies and Entities – Firms, trusts, LLPs, and corporations applying for a PAN on behalf of the organization.

The application form varies slightly based on category. Indian citizens and NRIs typically use Form 49A, while foreign nationals use Form 49AA. Ensure you select the correct form to avoid delays or rejection.

Collect Required Documents

Document verification is the cornerstone of a successful PAN application. Incomplete or incorrect documentation is the leading cause of application rejections. Below is a list of acceptable documents categorized by proof of identity, address, and date of birth.

Proof of Identity (POI)

Acceptable documents include:

• Passport
• Aadhaar card
• Voter ID card
• Driving License
• Photo ID issued by the government
• Bank account statement with photograph

Proof of Address (POA)

Acceptable documents include:

• Passport
• Aadhaar card
• Electricity bill (not older than three months)
• Bank statement with address
• Rent agreement with landlord’s ID
• Postpaid mobile bill
• Utility bill in the applicant’s name

Proof of Date of Birth (DOB)

Acceptable documents include:

• Birth certificate
• Passport
• Aadhaar card
• Matriculation certificate
• Driving license

Documents must be self-attested copies. For online applications, scanned PDFs in color are required. Ensure the file size does not exceed 100 KB per document and is in JPG, PNG, or PDF format.

Choose Your Application Method: Online or Offline

You may apply for a PAN card either online or offline. The online method is faster, more transparent, and recommended for most applicants.

Online Application Process

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to the official NSDL PAN portal at https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/endUserRegisterContact.html or the UTIITSL portal at https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/PAN/. These are the only two government-authorized agencies for PAN applications.

Step 2: Select Application Type

Click on “Apply for New PAN Card” or “Changes/Correction in PAN Data.” Choose Form 49A (for Indian citizens and NRIs) or Form 49AA (for foreign nationals).

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Enter all details accurately:

• Full name (as per ID proof)
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Address (permanent and communication, if different)
• Phone number and email address
• Parent’s name (for individuals)
• Category (individual, company, HUF, etc.)

Double-check spelling, especially in names. Any mismatch between the application and supporting documents will result in rejection.

Step 4: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of your POI, POA, and DOB documents. Ensure they are clear, legible, and not blurred or cropped. The system will validate file formats and sizes automatically.

Step 5: Review and Submit

Before submission, review all entered information. Once submitted, changes cannot be made without initiating a correction request, which incurs additional fees and delays.

Step 6: Make Payment

The application fee is ₹107 for Indian addresses and ₹1,017 for international addresses. Payment can be made via net banking, credit/debit card, UPI, or demand draft. After successful payment, you will receive a unique 15-digit acknowledgment number. Save this number—it is your reference for tracking your application status.

Step 7: Print and Send (If Required)

For some applicants—particularly those applying through offline modes or submitting physical documents—a printed copy of the application with a photograph and signature must be sent to the NSDL or UTIITSL office. Check the confirmation page after submission. If required, print the form, affix a recent passport-sized photograph, sign across the photo, and mail it with supporting documents to the address provided.

Offline Application Process

If you prefer to apply offline:

Step 1: Obtain Form 49A or 49AA

Download the form from the NSDL or UTIITSL website, or collect it from authorized PAN centers located in banks, post offices, or municipal corporations.

Step 2: Fill the Form Manually

Use black ink and print clearly. Do not use correction fluid or overwriting. All fields must be completed.

Step 3: Attach Documents

Attach self-attested copies of your identity, address, and date of birth documents. Include one recent passport-sized photograph.

Step 4: Pay the Fee

Pay via demand draft, cheque, or cash at designated collection centers. The demand draft must be in favor of “NSDL-PAN” or “UTIITSL-PAN,” as applicable, and payable at Mumbai.

Step 5: Submit the Application

Submit the completed form and documents at an authorized PAN center. You will receive a receipt with a tracking number.

Track Your Application Status

After submission, you can track your PAN application status using your 15-digit acknowledgment number:

• Visit the NSDL status tracker: https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/pantan/StatusTrack.html
• Visit the UTIITSL status tracker: https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/PAN/

Enter your acknowledgment number and captcha, then click “Submit.” The system will display your current status—whether it’s “Under Processing,” “Dispatched,” or “PAN Allotted.”

Processing typically takes 15–20 working days. If your status remains unchanged for more than 30 days, recheck your document uploads or contact support via the official portal’s contact form—not by phone or third-party intermediaries.

Receive Your PAN Card

Once approved, your PAN card will be dispatched via postal service to the address provided in your application. The card includes your photograph, signature, PAN number, and QR code for digital verification.

You will also receive an e-PAN card via email within 48 hours of approval. The e-PAN is a digitally signed PDF document and holds the same legal validity as the physical card. Save it securely and use it for online verifications, such as linking with Aadhaar or filing income tax returns.

Best Practices

Applying for a PAN card is straightforward, but small oversights can lead to delays or rejections. Adhering to best practices ensures a seamless experience.

Use Official Portals Only

Many fraudulent websites mimic official PAN portals to collect fees or personal data. Always verify the URL before entering any information. The only legitimate portals are NSDL and UTIITSL. Avoid third-party aggregators claiming to “expedite” your application—they often charge extra for services you can perform yourself for free.

Ensure Name Consistency Across Documents

Your name on the PAN application must exactly match your primary identity document (e.g., passport or Aadhaar). If your name is “Rajesh Kumar Singh” on your Aadhaar, do not enter “R. K. Singh” or “Rajesh S.” on the PAN form. Even minor discrepancies can trigger manual verification, delaying your application by weeks.

Use High-Quality Scans

Blurry, dark, or cropped scans are the most common reason for document rejection. Use a smartphone scanner app (like Adobe Scan or CamScanner) to capture documents in natural lighting. Ensure all text is readable and borders are visible.

Keep a Digital Backup

After submission, save copies of:

• The filled application form
• Payment receipt
• Scanned documents
• Acknowledgment number

Store these in a secure cloud folder (Google Drive, OneDrive) or encrypted USB drive. You may need them for future reference, such as when linking your PAN with bank accounts or during audits.

Update Contact Information

Ensure your email and mobile number are active and accessible. All communication—including e-PAN delivery and status updates—is sent electronically. If your email is incorrect or your phone is disconnected, you may miss critical notifications.

Apply Early for NRIs and Foreign Nationals

NRIs and foreign nationals often face longer processing times due to international document verification. Submit your application at least 6–8 weeks before any financial deadline, such as property purchase, investment, or visa application.

Link PAN with Aadhaar

As per government mandate, all PAN holders must link their PAN with Aadhaar. Failure to do so may result in the PAN becoming inoperative. After receiving your PAN, visit the Income Tax e-Filing portal and link your PAN and Aadhaar using the “Link Aadhaar” option. This step is mandatory and free of cost.

Tools and Resources

Several digital tools and official resources can simplify your PAN application process and help avoid common pitfalls.

Official Government Portals

• NSDL PAN Portal – https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/endUserRegisterContact.html
• UTIITSL PAN Portal – https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/PAN/
• Income Tax e-Filing Portal – https://www.incometax.gov.in
• Aadhaar Linking Portal – https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/

Document Scanning and Editing Tools

• Adobe Scan – Free mobile app for high-quality document scanning with OCR.
• CamScanner – Popular app for cropping, enhancing, and converting documents to PDF.
• Smallpdf – Online tool to compress PDFs under 100 KB for upload.
• Photopea – Free online Photoshop alternative to resize or adjust image brightness.

Document Validation Checklists

Before submitting, use this quick checklist:

• Is the name spelled exactly as in the ID proof?
• Are all documents self-attested with signature?
• Are scanned files in JPG/PNG/PDF format?
• Is the file size under 100 KB per document?
• Is the photograph clear, recent, and with white background?
• Is the payment receipt saved?
• Is the acknowledgment number recorded?

Mobile Apps for PAN Management

• DigiLocker – Store and share your e-PAN card digitally with government agencies and banks.
• UMANG App – Government’s unified mobile app for accessing PAN, Aadhaar, and tax services.

PDF Validators

Before uploading, validate your PDFs for compliance:

• Ensure the document is not password-protected.
• Confirm the text is selectable (not an image-only PDF).
• Use Adobe Acrobat’s “Accessibility Check” to ensure readability.

Real Examples

Real-world scenarios illustrate how the application process works and how to overcome common challenges.

Example 1: Student Applying for the First Time

Arjun, a 19-year-old student in Pune, wants to open a savings account. He has his Aadhaar card and school leaving certificate. He applies online via NSDL:

• Uses Aadhaar as POI, POA, and DOB proof.
• Uploads a clear scanned copy of his Aadhaar.
• Enters his full name as it appears on Aadhaar: “Arjun Rajesh Patil.”
• Uses his mother’s email for communication since he doesn’t have a personal email.
• Pays ₹107 via UPI.
• Receives e-PAN via email in 12 days. Physical card arrives by post in 18 days.

Arjun successfully links his PAN with his bank account and files his first tax return when he starts an internship.

Example 2: NRI in the USA Applying for PAN

Sunita, an NRI living in New York, wants to invest in Indian mutual funds. She applies using Form 49AA:

• Uses her Indian passport as POI and DOB proof.
• Submits a recent bank statement from her Indian bank as POA (address: Mumbai).
• Attaches a notarized copy of her US visa as additional ID.
• Pays ₹1,017 via international credit card.
• Receives e-PAN in 18 days. Physical card mailed to her Mumbai address.

Sunita uses her PAN to complete KYC with her mutual fund distributor and begins investing.

Example 3: Business Owner Applying for Company PAN

Rahul owns a small e-commerce business and needs a PAN for his LLP. He applies as a legal entity:

• Selects “Partnership Firm” as category.
• Uploads Certificate of Incorporation as POI.
• Submits a bank statement in the firm’s name as POA.
• Provides the name and PAN of the designated partner.
• Signs the application digitally using a DSC (Digital Signature Certificate).
• Receives PAN in 14 days and uses it to open a business bank account.

Example 4: Senior Citizen with No Aadhaar

Mr. Kapoor, 72, lives in a rural area without Aadhaar. He applies offline:

• Uses his voter ID as POI and POA.
• Submits his pension payment order as DOB proof.
• Visits the local post office, which is an authorized PAN center.
• Submits the form with a photograph and signature.
• Receives his PAN card via post in 22 days.

He later uses his PAN to claim tax deductions on his pension income.

FAQs

Can I apply for a PAN card without an Aadhaar?

Yes, you can. While Aadhaar is the most commonly used document, it is not mandatory. You may use any government-issued ID with photo, address, and date of birth, such as a passport, voter ID, or driving license.

How long does it take to get a PAN card?

Typically, 15–20 working days for online applications. For offline applications, it may take up to 25–30 days. International applications may take 30–45 days due to verification processes.

Is there a way to get a PAN card in 2 days?

No. There is no official service to issue a PAN card within 2 days. Any website or agent claiming to do so is likely fraudulent. The process requires document verification and government processing time.

Can I apply for a PAN card for my child?

Yes. Minors can apply for a PAN card. The application must be made by a parent or guardian. Only the child’s name, DOB, and photograph are required. No income proof is needed.

What if I make a mistake in my PAN application?

If the application is still under processing, you cannot edit it. You must wait for rejection, then reapply. If the PAN is already allotted, you can apply for corrections using Form 49A (for individuals) or Form 49AA (for entities).

Do I need to reapply if I lose my PAN card?

No. Your PAN number is permanent. You can apply for a duplicate card using the “Reprint PAN Card” option on the NSDL or UTIITSL portal. The fee is ₹50 for Indian addresses.

Can I apply for a PAN card if I’m not an Indian citizen?

Yes. Foreign nationals who earn income in India, hold assets, or conduct business must apply using Form 49AA. Required documents include passport, visa, and proof of address in India or abroad.

Is the e-PAN card valid?

Yes. The e-PAN is a digitally signed PDF issued by the Income Tax Department and is legally valid for all purposes, including KYC, banking, and tax filing.

Can I change my name on the PAN card after marriage?

Yes. You can apply for a change of name by submitting Form 49A with supporting documents such as a marriage certificate and updated ID proof.

What happens if my PAN application is rejected?

You will receive an email or SMS detailing the reason—usually mismatched documents, unclear scans, or incomplete fields. Correct the errors and reapply. There is no penalty for reapplication, but you must pay the fee again.

Conclusion

Applying for a PAN card is a fundamental step in establishing your financial identity in India. Whether you are a student, a professional, an NRI, or a foreign national, understanding the official process ensures you avoid scams, delays, and unnecessary expenses. The key to success lies in accuracy, patience, and using only government-authorized channels.

This guide has provided a complete roadmap—from document preparation to application submission and tracking—empowering you to navigate the process with confidence. Remember: there are no shortcuts. The system is designed for transparency, and adherence to guidelines guarantees success.

Once you obtain your PAN, ensure it is linked with Aadhaar, stored digitally via DigiLocker, and used responsibly across all financial platforms. Your PAN is more than a number—it is your gateway to formal economic participation in India.

Apply wisely. Verify everything. Trust only official sources. And remember—your PAN card is yours for life. Make sure it’s correct the first time.