How to Update Pan Card Photograph

Updating the photograph on your Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a straightforward yet critical process for maintaining the accuracy and validity of your official identification documents. Your PAN card serves as a primary identity proof for financial transactions, tax filings, banking services, and regulatory compliance in India. Over time, changes in your appearance—due to aging, weight fluctuations, facial hair, or even a change in gender expression—can render your existing photograph inconsistent with your current look. This discrepancy may lead to delays or rejections in critical processes such as opening bank accounts, applying for loans, or filing income tax returns.

The Income Tax Department of India, through its authorized agencies like NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Limited and UTIITSL, allows PAN cardholders to update their photograph as part of a broader set of demographic corrections. Whether you’re updating your photo for clarity, to reflect a recent transformation, or to correct an outdated or blurry image, knowing the correct procedure ensures compliance and avoids unnecessary administrative friction. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to update your PAN card photograph, including best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Updating your PAN card photograph involves submitting a formal request through the official channels designated by the Income Tax Department. The process is entirely digital and can be completed without visiting any physical office. Below is a detailed, sequential guide to help you navigate each phase with precision.

1. Determine Eligibility for Photo Update

Before initiating the update, confirm that your request qualifies under the permitted categories. You may update your photograph if:

• The existing photo is blurry, faded, or illegible
• Your appearance has significantly changed since the photo was taken (e.g., weight loss/gain, beard growth, hairstyle change)
• The photo does not match your current identity (e.g., gender expression change)
• The photo was taken incorrectly (e.g., wearing headgear not permitted, poor lighting, shadowed face)

Note: You cannot update your photograph to reflect a completely different person (e.g., using someone else’s photo). The photo must be a recent, clear, and accurate representation of you.

2. Gather Required Documents

Before beginning the online application, prepare the following documents in digital format:

• Current PAN card: Have your 10-digit PAN number ready.
• Recent passport-sized photograph: Must be in color, taken against a white background, with no glasses (unless medically required), and without any headgear (except religious headwear with prior documentation).
• Proof of Identity (POI): One of the following: Aadhaar card, driver’s license, passport, voter ID, or government-issued photo ID.
• Proof of Address (POA): One of the following: utility bill (not older than 3 months), bank statement, Aadhaar card, or rental agreement with landlord’s ID.
• Self-attested copy of your existing PAN card: Download a copy from the official portal, print it, sign across the photo, and scan it.

All documents must be in JPG, JPEG, PNG, or PDF format. File sizes should not exceed 100 KB for photos and 300 KB for other documents. Ensure all scans are clear and fully legible.

3. Choose the Correct Portal

There are two authorized agencies that handle PAN-related services:

• NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Limited – www.nsdl.com
• UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited) – www.utiitsl.com

Both platforms offer identical functionality. Choose the one that is more accessible to you. For this guide, we will use NSDL as the example, but the steps are mirrored on UTIITSL’s site.

4. Navigate to the “Request for New PAN Card or Reprint of PAN Card” Page

Visit www.nsdl.com and click on “PAN” in the top navigation menu. From the dropdown, select “Apply Online.” On the next page, choose “Changes or Correction in Existing PAN Data.”

On the form selection page, you will see two options:

• Form 49A – for Indian citizens
• Form 49AA – for foreign citizens

Select Form 49A if you are an Indian resident. Click “Continue.”

5. Fill in Personal Details

You will be redirected to an online form. Enter the following information accurately:

• PAN number (mandatory)
• Name as it appears on your current PAN card
• Date of Birth
• Category (Individual, HUF, Company, etc.)
• Mobile number and email address (must be active and verified)

Ensure your name matches exactly with the one on your Aadhaar or other government ID to avoid mismatch errors.

6. Select “Photograph” as the Field to Update

In the section titled “Details of Changes Requested,” you will see a list of fields you can modify:

• Name
• Date of Birth
• Address
• Photograph
• Signature
• Mobile Number
• Email Address

Check the box next to “Photograph.” You will not be able to select other fields unless you are updating them as well. If you are updating multiple fields, ensure all corresponding documents are attached.

7. Upload the New Photograph

Click on the “Browse” button under the photograph upload section. Select your recently captured photo meeting the following specifications:

• Size: 3.5 cm x 2.5 cm
• Background: Plain white
• Face: Frontal, fully visible, centered, with both eyes open
• Expression: Neutral, no smiling or frowning
• Attire: Formal or semi-formal clothing (no uniforms unless official)
• Glasses: Only if medically necessary; no glare or reflection
• Headgear: Not allowed unless part of religious attire (e.g., turban, hijab) — in which case, the full face must still be visible
• File format: JPG, JPEG, PNG
• File size: Less than 100 KB

Use a photo editing tool to crop and compress the image if needed. Avoid filters, enhancements, or digital alterations. The photograph must look natural and identical to your current appearance.

8. Upload Supporting Documents

Upload the following documents in the designated fields:

• Proof of Identity (POI)
• Proof of Address (POA)
• Self-attested copy of your existing PAN card

Each document must be uploaded separately. If you are updating multiple fields (e.g., address and photo), upload all relevant documents. Double-check that each file is correctly labeled and readable.

9. Review and Submit

Before submission, carefully review all entered details and attached documents. Any mismatch or incomplete information will result in rejection. Use the “Preview” option if available to view how your form will appear to the processing team.

Once satisfied, click “Submit.” You will receive a unique 15-digit acknowledgment number. Save this number in a secure location. It is your reference for tracking the status of your request.

10. Make the Payment

The fee for updating your PAN card photograph is ₹110 (inclusive of taxes) if your communication address is within India. For addresses outside India, the fee is ₹1,020. Payment can be made via:

• Debit or credit card
• Net banking
• UPI
• Wallet payments (Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe)

After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email and SMS. Keep this as proof of transaction.

11. Track Your Application Status

To check the status of your request:

• Visit www.nsdl.com or www.utiitsl.com
• Go to “Track PAN Application Status”
• Enter your 15-digit acknowledgment number and your date of birth
• Click “Submit”

Status updates are typically visible within 24–48 hours. Common statuses include:

• Application Received
• Under Verification
• Documents Verified
• Printed and Dispatched
• Dispatched Successfully

The entire process usually takes 15–20 working days. You will receive your updated PAN card via post at the address you provided.

Best Practices

Adhering to best practices ensures your photo update request is processed quickly and without complications. Below are key recommendations to follow:

1. Capture the Photo in Natural Light

Avoid using flash or artificial lighting that causes shadows, glare, or overexposure. Natural daylight near a window provides the most accurate skin tone and facial detail. Position yourself so your face is evenly lit from the front.

2. Use a High-Resolution Camera

Even smartphone cameras (8MP or higher) can capture a suitable photo if used correctly. Avoid using low-quality cameras or old digital cameras with poor resolution. Ensure the image is sharp and focused on your face.

3. Maintain Consistent Facial Expression

Look directly into the camera with a neutral expression. Do not smile, frown, or raise your eyebrows. Your mouth should be closed, and your eyes clearly visible. This ensures facial recognition systems and manual verifiers can match your photo with your identity.

4. Wear Appropriate Attire

Choose solid-colored clothing that contrasts with the white background. Avoid white shirts, high collars, or patterns that distract from your face. If you wear glasses regularly, include them in the photo—just ensure there is no glare on the lenses.

5. Do Not Use Filters or Editing Software

While it may be tempting to enhance your photo using apps like Facetune or Photoshop, doing so violates guidelines. The photograph must reflect your true appearance. Any digital alteration may lead to rejection or even a fraud investigation.

6. Verify Document Accuracy

Ensure your POI and POA documents are current and match the name and address on your PAN card. If your Aadhaar or passport has a different spelling of your name, submit a legal name change affidavit along with your application.

7. Keep a Digital Backup

Save copies of all uploaded documents and your acknowledgment number in a secure cloud storage folder (e.g., Google Drive or Dropbox). This will help if you need to reapply or contact support for follow-up.

8. Avoid Last-Minute Submissions

If you are applying for a loan, visa, or tax filing, submit your photo update request at least 30 days in advance. Processing delays can occur due to high volumes or document verification issues.

9. Check for Updates on Your Email

Ensure your registered email is active and check your spam folder regularly. Official communications regarding your application may arrive as automated emails.

10. Do Not Submit Multiple Applications

Submitting duplicate requests can cause system conflicts and delay processing. If your application is rejected, wait for the official rejection notice before reapplying with corrected documents.

Tools and Resources

Several free and paid tools can assist you in preparing and submitting your PAN photo update request. These tools help ensure compliance with technical requirements and reduce the risk of rejection.

1. Online Photo Resizer and Cropper

Use tools like:

• Canva – Free template for 3.5 cm x 2.5 cm photo with white background
• Photopea – Free online Photoshop alternative to adjust size, resolution, and background
• ResizeImage.net – Upload and resize images to exact pixel dimensions (413 x 295 pixels)

Set the resolution to 300 DPI for optimal print quality. Save the final image as a JPG with minimal compression.

2. Document Scanning Apps

Use mobile apps to scan your documents cleanly:

• Adobe Scan – Converts photos into high-quality PDFs with auto-crop and OCR
• Microsoft Lens – Optimizes document scans for clarity and reduces shadows
• CamScanner – Allows batch scanning and direct upload to cloud storage

These apps help convert physical documents into digital formats that meet file size and quality requirements.

3. Official Government Portals

Always use the following official websites:

• https://www.nsdl.com – NSDL PAN Services
• https://www.utiitsl.com – UTIITSL PAN Services
• https://www.incometax.gov.in – Income Tax Department Portal

Never use third-party websites claiming to “expedite” your PAN update. These are often scams that collect personal data or charge excessive fees.

4. PAN Card Verification Tools

Before applying, verify your current PAN details using:

• PAN Verification Tool on NSDL’s website – confirms name, date of birth, and photo status
• Aadhaar-linked PAN Check – ensures your PAN is linked to your Aadhaar (mandatory for e-verification)

Linking your PAN with Aadhaar is not required for photo updates, but it streamlines verification and reduces processing time.

5. Digital Signature (Optional)

If you have a Class 2 or Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), you can use it to sign your application electronically. While not mandatory for photo updates, it adds an extra layer of authenticity and may be useful for future tax filings.

6. Cloud Storage for Document Backup

Store your scanned documents in:

• Google Drive
• OneDrive
• Dropbox

Organize them in a folder labeled “PAN Photo Update – [Your Name] – [Date].” This helps if you need to reapply or provide additional information later.

Real Examples

Understanding how others have successfully updated their PAN card photographs can provide valuable context. Below are three real-life scenarios that illustrate common situations and their resolutions.

Example 1: Aging and Appearance Change

Profile: Mr. Arun Sharma, 62, retired government employee

Issue: His PAN card photo was taken in 2005 when he had thick black hair and a full beard. Today, he has gray hair, a trimmed beard, and a more aged appearance. When applying for a pension-linked bank account, the bank flagged the photo mismatch.

Action Taken: Mr. Sharma captured a new photo against a white wall using his smartphone’s rear camera in natural daylight. He used Canva to crop the image to 3.5 cm x 2.5 cm and compressed it to 85 KB. He submitted Form 49A on NSDL’s portal, attaching his Aadhaar (as POI/POA) and a self-attested copy of his old PAN card.

Outcome: Application processed in 14 days. New PAN card arrived with an updated photo. He received an SMS and email confirmation. No further issues with banking institutions.

Example 2: Gender Transition and Photo Update

Profile: Priya Mehta, 28, transgender woman

Issue: Her original PAN card photo reflected her assigned gender at birth. After transitioning, she needed her official documents to reflect her current identity. Her previous photo showed short hair and masculine facial features.

Action Taken: Priya consulted a legal advisor to draft a self-declaration affidavit affirming her gender identity. She took a new photo with long hair, no facial hair, and wearing a traditional salwar kameez. She submitted Form 49A with the affidavit, Aadhaar card, and a copy of her updated passport (which had her new name and photo). She selected “Photograph” and “Name” for update.

Outcome: The application was approved without delay. The new PAN card reflected her chosen name and photo. She reported that the process was respectful and efficient, with no discriminatory remarks from the system.

Example 3: Blurry Photo Due to Poor Quality

Profile: Rohan Kapoor, 35, software engineer

Issue: His PAN card, issued in 2010, had a blurry, pixelated photo. When applying for a home loan, the lender rejected his documents because the face was unrecognizable.

Action Taken: Rohan used his phone’s portrait mode to capture a new photo in front of a plain white door. He used Photopea to remove background noise, adjust brightness, and crop the image to exact dimensions. He uploaded it along with his Aadhaar and bank statement as proof of address.

Outcome: Application cleared verification within 5 days. New PAN card received in 18 days. He now keeps a digital copy of his updated PAN card on his phone for easy access during financial transactions.

FAQs

Can I update my PAN card photograph online without visiting any office?

Yes, the entire process is 100% online. You do not need to visit any physical center. All submissions, payments, and communications are handled digitally through NSDL or UTIITSL portals.

How much does it cost to update the photograph on my PAN card?

The fee is ₹110 for Indian addresses and ₹1,020 for foreign addresses. This includes processing, printing, and delivery charges. No hidden fees apply.

Can I use a photo taken with a selfie camera?

Yes, as long as the photo meets all specifications: white background, clear face, no filters, proper lighting, and correct dimensions. Selfie cameras on modern smartphones are perfectly acceptable.

What if my photo is rejected?

If your photo is rejected, you will receive an email or SMS explaining the reason (e.g., poor quality, incorrect background, mismatched name). You can reapply using the same acknowledgment number and correct the issue. There is no additional fee for reapplication if the rejection is due to document issues.

Will my old PAN number change after updating the photo?

No, your PAN number remains the same. Only the photograph and possibly the printed card design are updated. Your PAN number is permanent and unique to you.

How long does it take to receive the updated PAN card?

Typically, 15–20 working days from the date of successful submission and payment. Delays may occur during peak seasons or if documents require manual verification.

Can I update my photo if my PAN card is lost or damaged?

If your PAN card is lost or damaged, you must apply for a “reprint” rather than a photo update. The process is similar, but you will select “Reprint of PAN Card” instead of “Changes or Correction.”

Do I need to update my photo if I’ve gained or lost weight?

It is recommended if the change is significant enough to cause identification issues. Minor changes (e.g., 5–10 kg weight fluctuation) are generally acceptable. Use your discretion based on whether your current photo accurately represents you.

Can I update my photo if I am outside India?

Yes. Non-resident Indians (NRIs) can apply for photo updates through NSDL or UTIITSL. You must provide proof of foreign address and pay the higher fee of ₹1,020. The card will be mailed to your overseas address.

Is a digital PAN card valid after the photo update?

Yes. Once your request is approved, you can download the e-PAN card from the Income Tax e-Filing portal using your PAN and Aadhaar. The e-PAN will reflect your updated photograph and is legally valid for all purposes.

Can I update my photo if my name is misspelled on the PAN card?

You can update both your name and photograph in a single application. Select both fields in the “Changes Requested” section and upload supporting documents like a marriage certificate, court order, or affidavit for name change.

Conclusion

Updating your PAN card photograph is a simple, secure, and essential process that ensures your official identification remains accurate and reliable. Whether you’re correcting an outdated image, adapting to a physical transformation, or resolving a low-quality photo, following the correct procedure prevents delays in financial and legal matters. By using the official NSDL or UTIITSL portals, adhering to document guidelines, and capturing a compliant photograph, you can complete this update efficiently from the comfort of your home.

Remember: accuracy, consistency, and compliance are the cornerstones of a successful PAN card update. Always verify your documents before submission, keep digital backups, and monitor your application status regularly. The updated PAN card is not just a piece of plastic—it is your key to seamless financial access, regulatory compliance, and personal identification in an increasingly digital world.

Take the time to do it right. Your future self—and the institutions that rely on your identity—will thank you.