A Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is mandatory for filing income tax returns, opening a bank account, and conducting high-value financial transactions in India. Applying for a PAN card online is straightforward and takes only a few minutes. This guide covers the complete online application process, documents needed, fees, and how long it takes.
Who needs a PAN card?
A PAN is required for any individual or entity earning taxable income. It is also required for:
Filing income tax returns — PAN is mandatory for filing ITR, regardless of income level.
Opening a bank account — Banks require your PAN when opening a savings or current account.
High-value purchases and investments — Property purchases, vehicle purchases, jewellery above threshold values, and stock/mutual fund investments require PAN.
Salary and TDS — Employers and clients deducting TDS at source must record your PAN.
Business registration — Businesses need PAN for GST registration, company incorporation, and regulatory filings.
How to apply via NSDL (Protean)
NSDL (now Protean) is one of two authorised agencies for PAN applications:
1
Visit onlineservices.nsdl.comClick 'Apply Online' under the 'PAN — New PAN — Indian Citizen (Form 49A)' section.
2
Fill in Form 49AEnter your personal details — full name, date of birth, address, contact information, and source of income.
3
Upload documents and photographUpload scanned copies of your proof of identity, proof of address, proof of date of birth, and a passport-size photograph.
4
Pay the application feePay ₹107 for an Indian address (₹1,017 for a foreign address) online via debit card, credit card, or netbanking.
5
Note your acknowledgement numberAfter payment, an acknowledgement number is generated. Use it to track your application status.
How to apply via UTIITSL
UTIITSL is the second authorised agency with a similar process:
1
Visit utiitsl.comClick 'PAN Card Services' and select 'Apply for New PAN Card (Form 49A)'.
2
Complete the online formFill in your personal details, upload required documents, and upload a passport-size photograph.
3
Pay and submitComplete the online payment and submit. You will receive an acknowledgement number for tracking.
Documents required for a PAN card application
You will need one document from each category:
Proof of identity — Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, driving licence, or ration card.
Proof of address — Aadhaar card, passport, utility bill, bank statement, or post office passbook.
Proof of date of birth — Birth certificate, 10th standard marksheet, passport, or Aadhaar card with date of birth printed.
Passport-size photograph — A recent photograph with a white background.
e-PAN vs physical PAN card
An e-PAN is a digitally signed PDF version of your PAN card, sent to your registered email. It is legally valid and accepted for most purposes including KYC, banking, and tax filings.
A physical PAN card is a laminated card sent by post. The same application generates both — you receive the e-PAN faster (within 48 hours for Aadhaar-linked applications) while the physical card arrives within 15 to 20 business days.
How long does a PAN card application take?
Aadhaar-based e-PAN applications are typically processed within 10 minutes to 48 hours and sent to your registered email.
Physical PAN cards are dispatched via India Speed Post and arrive within 15 to 20 business days after the application is processed.
Frequently asked questions
The fee is ₹107 for applicants with an Indian communication address and ₹1,017 for those with a foreign address. These fees include GST.
An e-PAN is a digitally signed PDF version of your PAN card issued to your registered email. It is legally valid and accepted by banks, institutions, and tax authorities.
You can link your PAN with Aadhaar on the Income Tax Department's e-filing portal (incometax.gov.in). The name and date of birth in both documents must match.
Yes. A PAN card can be applied for a minor child, but the form must be signed and submitted by the parent or guardian. It is typically used for investments made in the child's name.
Need help with your PAN card application?
A verified specialist on Krakens will fill out your application, prepare your documents, and submit it to NSDL or UTIITSL on your behalf.
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