How to Get PAN Card for NRIs

For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is not just a bureaucratic formality—it is a critical financial necessity. Whether you are investing in Indian real estate, opening a bank account, filing tax returns, or receiving income from India, a PAN card is mandatory under Indian tax law. Despite living abroad, NRIs are often subject to Indian tax regulations on income generated within the country, making PAN a cornerstone of financial compliance and ease of transaction.

The process of acquiring a PAN card as an NRI may seem complex due to the documentation requirements, jurisdictional differences, and the need to submit forms from overseas. However, with clear guidance and accurate preparation, the procedure is straightforward and can be completed efficiently. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step—from understanding eligibility and required documents to submitting your application online or via post—and provides best practices, tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions to ensure a seamless experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before initiating the application, verify that you qualify as an NRI under the Income Tax Act, 1961. An individual is classified as an NRI if they have not resided in India for at least 182 days during the relevant financial year, or if they have not been in India for 365 days or more in the four years preceding the relevant year and have been in India for less than 60 days in the current year.

Eligibility for a PAN card extends to:

• Indian citizens residing outside India
• Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) holding foreign passports
• Foreign nationals with financial transactions in India

Even if you do not currently earn income in India, having a PAN card facilitates future financial engagements such as property purchases, mutual fund investments, or receiving dividends from Indian companies.

Step 2: Choose the Correct Application Form

NRIs must use Form 49AA to apply for a PAN card. This form is specifically designed for foreign citizens and Indian citizens residing outside India. Do not use Form 49A, which is intended for residents of India.

Form 49AA can be downloaded from the official websites of the Income Tax Department, NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited), or UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited). Both NSDL and UTIITSL are authorized agencies appointed by the Government of India to process PAN applications.

Ensure you download the latest version of the form. Outdated forms may be rejected. The form is available in PDF format and can be filled out digitally using Adobe Acrobat Reader or printed and completed manually.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Document submission is the most critical phase of the process. NRIs must provide proof of identity, proof of address, and a recent passport-sized photograph. All documents must be attested or notarized by an authorized official in the country of residence.

Proof of Identity (Any One)

• Copy of your valid Indian passport
• Copy of your foreign passport with a valid visa or residence permit
• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card
• Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card (if still valid)

For applicants without an Indian passport, a foreign passport is acceptable. However, it must clearly display your full name, photograph, date of birth, and signature.

Proof of Address (Any One)

• Copy of your foreign passport with a local address
• Bank statement from a foreign bank, issued within the last six months
• Utility bill (electricity, water, gas) issued within the last three months
• Residence permit or visa issued by the host country
• Letter from the Indian embassy or consulate confirming your address

The address provided must match the one mentioned in your application form. If you are using a bank statement or utility bill, ensure it includes your full name and current residential address.

Photograph

Submit one recent, color photograph (3.5 cm x 2.5 cm) with a white background. The photograph must be clear, without any headgear (unless worn for religious reasons), and must show your full face. Do not use old or digitally altered photos.

Step 4: Notarize or Attest Documents

All documents submitted by NRIs must be certified by an authorized official. This includes:

• Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence
• A notary public licensed in your country
• A magistrate or court officer

Each document copy must bear the official stamp, signature, and date of attestation. The attestation should state: “Certified true copy of the original.”

Some consulates require an additional affidavit or declaration form to accompany your documents. Check the website of your nearest Indian diplomatic mission for specific requirements.

Step 5: Fill Out Form 49AA Accurately

Complete Form 49AA with utmost precision. Any error or omission may lead to delays or rejection. Pay special attention to the following fields:

• Name: Enter your full name exactly as it appears in your passport. Include middle names if applicable.
• Date of Birth: Use the DD/MM/YYYY format. Do not use abbreviations.
• Address: Provide your current overseas residential address. Do not use a P.O. Box unless it is the only recognized address in your country.
• Country of Citizenship: Indicate your current nationality.
• Passport Number: Enter your Indian or foreign passport number as applicable.
• Telephone Number: Include your international dialing code (e.g., +1 for USA, +44 for UK).
• Email Address: Provide a valid email for communication purposes.
• Reason for Applying: Select the most appropriate option (e.g., “For financial transactions in India,” “Investment,” “Tax purposes”).

Sign the form in blue or black ink. If you are applying on behalf of a minor or a person of unsound mind, the guardian must sign and provide supporting documentation.

Step 6: Pay the Application Fee

The processing fee for PAN applications submitted from outside India is ₹1,011 (approximately $12 USD). This includes the cost of dispatching the PAN card via international courier.

Payment can be made through:

• Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, RuPay)
• Net banking via authorized Indian banks
• Demand draft or banker’s cheque drawn in favor of “NSDL-PAN” or “UTIITSL-PAN,” payable at Mumbai

If paying via demand draft, ensure it is issued by a bank in your country and converted into Indian Rupees. The draft must be attached to your application form.

Step 7: Submit Your Application

You have two options to submit your completed application:

Option A: Online Submission via NSDL or UTIITSL

Visit the official NSDL PAN portal (https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/endUserRegisterContact.html) or UTIITSL PAN portal (https://www.utiitsl.com/pan).

Click on “Apply for PAN Online” and select Form 49AA. Fill in the details digitally, upload scanned copies of your attested documents, and pay the fee online. Once submitted, you will receive an acknowledgment number. Keep this number for future reference.

After submission, you are not required to mail physical documents unless specifically requested. However, retain copies of all submitted materials for your records.

Option B: Offline Submission via Post

If you prefer to submit via post, print the completed Form 49AA, attach all attested documents, and include the payment receipt or demand draft. Send the package to:

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, India

OR

UTIITSL

Plot No. 127, 1st Floor, A Wing, Andheri (East), Mumbai – 400 093, India

Use a reliable international courier service (DHL, FedEx, UPS) and request a tracking number. Avoid using regular postal mail, as it may result in delays or loss.

Step 8: Track Your Application

After submission, you can track the status of your PAN application using your acknowledgment number on the NSDL or UTIITSL websites.

Processing typically takes 15–20 working days from the date of receipt. If your application is incomplete or requires clarification, you may receive an email or letter requesting additional information. Respond promptly to avoid delays.

Step 9: Receive Your PAN Card

Once approved, your PAN card will be dispatched via international courier to the address provided in your application. The card includes your name, photograph, PAN number, date of birth, and a QR code for verification.

You will also receive a PAN acknowledgment letter via email. Keep both the physical card and digital copy securely stored. You may need to present your PAN for financial transactions, tax filings, or property registrations in India.

Best Practices

1. Double-Check All Information

One of the most common reasons for PAN application rejection is incorrect or inconsistent data. Ensure that your name, date of birth, and passport number match exactly across all documents and the application form. Even a minor spelling difference (e.g., “Rajesh” vs. “Rajesh Kumar”) can trigger a manual review and delay processing.

2. Use Clear, High-Quality Scans

If submitting online, scan documents at 300 DPI or higher. Blurry, cropped, or dark images may be rejected. Ensure that the attestation stamp and signature are clearly visible. Avoid using mobile phone photos unless they are exceptionally clear and well-lit.

3. Keep Copies of Everything

Always retain photocopies or digital backups of your completed application, documents, payment receipt, and acknowledgment number. These will be invaluable if you need to follow up or reapply.

4. Apply Well in Advance

Do not wait until the last minute to apply. Processing times can vary due to high volumes, holidays, or document verification delays. If you plan to purchase property or invest in Indian markets, apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance.

5. Avoid Third-Party Agents

While some agencies offer to assist with PAN applications for a fee, they often charge inflated prices and may mishandle your documents. The process is designed to be self-service. Use only official portals and government-authorized agencies.

6. Update Your Contact Details

If you move abroad or change your email address after submitting your application, notify NSDL or UTIITSL immediately. You can update your contact details using the “Request for New PAN Card or/and Changes or Correction in PAN Data” form (Form 49AA) on their websites.

7. Maintain PAN Card Security

Treat your PAN card like a sensitive financial document. Do not share your PAN number publicly or with unverified entities. Fraudsters may use your PAN for identity theft or fraudulent tax filings. Always verify the legitimacy of any request for your PAN details.

Tools and Resources

Official Websites

• NSDL PAN Portal: https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/endUserRegisterContact.html
• UTIITSL PAN Portal: https://www.utiitsl.com/pan
• Income Tax Department – PAN Section: https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/

These are the only authoritative sources for PAN applications. All other websites may be unofficial or fraudulent.

Document Attestation Services

Many countries have designated notaries or consular services that assist with document attestation for Indian applications. Examples include:

• Indian Consulate General in New York, USA
• High Commission of India in London, UK
• Embassy of India in Dubai, UAE
• Consulate General of India in Sydney, Australia

Visit the official website of your nearest Indian mission to check appointment availability and document requirements.

Document Scanning and Editing Tools

For digital submissions, use these free tools to prepare your documents:

• Adobe Acrobat Reader DC: For filling out PDF forms and signing digitally.
• CamScanner (Mobile App): For scanning documents with automatic edge detection and enhancement.
• Smallpdf: For compressing PDFs without losing quality.
• Canva: For creating a clean, professional layout if you need to print a cover letter or affidavit.

Payment Gateways

For online payments, ensure your credit/debit card supports international transactions in Indian Rupees. Cards issued by major global banks (e.g., Chase, HSBC, Citibank, Standard Chartered) are typically accepted. If your card is declined, use a demand draft from a bank with a branch in India.

Mobile Apps for Tracking

Download the “PAN Status Check” app (available on Google Play and Apple App Store) to receive push notifications on your application status. Alternatively, enable SMS alerts through the NSDL portal during application submission.

Real Examples

Example 1: NRI in the United States

Sanjay, an Indian citizen living in San Francisco, wanted to invest in a mutual fund offered by an Indian asset management company. He had no PAN card and was unable to proceed with the investment.

He downloaded Form 49AA from the NSDL website, gathered his Indian passport, a recent utility bill from his California residence, and a passport-sized photo. He visited the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, where a consular officer attested his documents. He filled out the form digitally, uploaded the documents, and paid the fee using his Visa card.

Within 18 days, he received his PAN card via FedEx. He immediately linked his PAN to his mutual fund account and began investing. He now uses his PAN for all financial transactions in India, including rental income from his property in Mumbai.

Example 2: NRI in the United Arab Emirates

Priya, a nurse working in Dubai, received dividend income from shares she inherited from her father in India. To comply with tax regulations, she needed a PAN card.

She used her UAE residence visa and a bank statement from Emirates NBD as proof of address. She printed Form 49AA, filled it manually, and took it to a notary public in Dubai. The notary attested the documents and stamped them.

Priya mailed the documents via DHL to NSDL’s Pune office. She included a demand draft for ₹1,011 drawn on her Indian bank account. After 22 days, she received her PAN card by courier. She filed her tax return using the PAN and avoided penalties.

Example 3: Person of Indian Origin (PIO) in Canada

David, a Canadian citizen of Indian origin, purchased a commercial property in Hyderabad. The property registry office required a PAN for the transaction.

He applied using his Canadian passport and a letter from his lawyer in India confirming his property purchase. He attested his documents at the Indian High Commission in Ottawa. He submitted his application online and received his PAN within three weeks.

David now uses his PAN to pay property taxes and to file annual returns on rental income generated from the property. He also linked his PAN to his NRE bank account for seamless fund transfers.

FAQs

Can NRIs apply for a PAN card without an Indian passport?

Yes. NRIs without an Indian passport can apply using a valid foreign passport, provided it contains their full name, photograph, date of birth, and signature. Additional documents such as an OCI card or PIO card may also be submitted as proof of Indian origin.

Is a PAN card mandatory for NRIs with no income in India?

No, it is not mandatory if you have no financial transactions in India. However, it is highly recommended. Having a PAN card simplifies future investments, property purchases, or inheritance claims without requiring you to apply later under urgent circumstances.

Can I apply for a PAN card while visiting India?

Yes. If you are in India temporarily, you can apply using Form 49AA and provide your overseas address as your permanent address. You may also submit local documents if you are staying with family or renting property in India, provided they are properly attested.

How long is a PAN card valid for NRIs?

A PAN card is valid for life. Once issued, it does not expire, even if you change your country of residence or citizenship. However, you must update your address or contact details if they change.

Can I use my PAN card to open an NRE or NRO bank account?

Yes. A PAN card is one of the mandatory documents required to open an NRE (Non-Resident External) or NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) bank account in India. Banks will also require your passport, visa, and proof of overseas address.

What if my PAN application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you will receive a notice via email or post detailing the reason. Common reasons include unattested documents, mismatched names, or incomplete forms. Correct the errors and reapply using the same acknowledgment number if possible, or submit a fresh application.

Can I have more than one PAN card?

No. It is illegal to hold multiple PAN cards. If you already have a PAN card issued during your time in India, do not apply for a new one. Instead, update your details using Form 49AA to reflect your current address and contact information.

Is there an expedited service for PAN applications?

Yes. NSDL and UTIITSL offer a “Urgent PAN” service for an additional fee of ₹1,021 (total ₹2,032). This service guarantees processing within 2–3 working days. It is ideal for urgent financial transactions or property registrations.

Can I use my PAN card for international transactions?

Your PAN card is primarily for tax and financial purposes within India. It cannot be used for international banking or credit transactions. However, it is essential for receiving payments from India, such as dividends, rent, or sale proceeds.

Do I need to link my PAN with Aadhaar?

No. Aadhaar is only mandatory for Indian residents. NRIs are exempt from linking their PAN with Aadhaar. However, if you later become a resident of India, you will be required to link them.

Conclusion

Obtaining a PAN card as an NRI is a vital step toward securing your financial presence in India. Whether you are managing inherited assets, investing in mutual funds, renting out property, or simply preparing for future opportunities, a PAN card ensures compliance, transparency, and ease of access to India’s financial systems.

By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide—selecting the correct form, gathering properly attested documents, paying the fee accurately, and submitting through official channels—you can avoid common pitfalls and receive your PAN card without unnecessary delays. Utilize the recommended tools, adhere to best practices, and learn from real-world examples to make the process as smooth as possible.

Remember, your PAN card is more than a number—it is your key to financial autonomy in India, regardless of where you live. Apply with care, keep your records secure, and use your PAN responsibly to build a strong, compliant financial future.