How to Apply for PAN Card Online?

A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is one of the most important identity documents for individuals and businesses in India. Issued by the Income Tax Department, a PAN card is a unique ten-character alphanumeric identifier. It is mandatory for filing income tax returns, opening a bank account, investing in securities, buying property, and several other financial transactions.

With digital services becoming mainstream, applying for a PAN card online has become simple and convenient. You no longer need to stand in queues or depend on middlemen. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a PAN card online, the documents required, fees, and frequently asked questions.

Why is PAN Important?

• Taxation: PAN links all your financial transactions, making it easier for the Income Tax Department to track taxes.

• Financial Transactions: Required for opening bank accounts, applying for credit cards, loans, and mutual fund investments.

• Identity Proof: Acts as a valid government ID across the country.

• Business Needs: Mandatory for companies, partnerships, and LLPs for taxation and compliance purposes.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for PAN Card Online

How to Apply for PAN Card Online?

The PAN card application process can be done through two official portals: NSDL (now Protean eGov Technologies) and UTIITSL. Both are authorized to issue PAN on behalf of the Income Tax Department.

1. Visit the Official Website

Go to either:

• NSDL e-Gov portal or

• UTIITSL PAN services portal.

2. Select the Appropriate Form

• Form 49A: For Indian citizens and entities.

• Form 49AA: For foreign nationals and foreign entities.

3. Fill in the Details

Enter details such as:

• Full name (as per Aadhaar or other identity proof)

• Date of birth

• Gender

• Address

• Contact information

• Aadhaar number (mandatory for individuals).

4. Upload Documents

Scanned copies of the following documents are needed:

• Proof of Identity: Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, or driving license.

• Proof of Address: Aadhaar, ration card, utility bill, passport, or driving license.

• Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, Aadhaar, passport, or matriculation certificate.

• Photograph and Signature: Passport-size photo and digital signature (if applicable).

5. Pay the Application Fee

• For Indian communication address: ₹93 + GST.

• For foreign communication address: ₹864 + GST.
  Payment can be made online via debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI.

6. Aadhaar e-KYC or Document Submission

• If applying with Aadhaar, use e-KYC with OTP authentication. No need to send documents physically.

• If not using Aadhaar e-KYC, applicants must print and send the acknowledgment form along with documents to NSDL/UTIITSL office.

7. Receive Acknowledgement Number

After successful submission, you will get a 15-digit acknowledgment number. This can be used to track your application status.

8. PAN Card Delivery

• An e-PAN (PDF format) is usually issued within 10 working days and sent to the registered email.

• The physical PAN card is dispatched to the applicant’s address within 15–20 working days.

Documents Required for PAN Application

For Individuals (Indian Citizens):

• Aadhaar card (mandatory for e-KYC)

• Passport-size photo

• Scanned signature

For Hindu Undivided Family (HUF):

• Identity and address proof of Karta

• HUF declaration signed by Karta

For Companies:

• Certificate of Incorporation issued by Registrar of Companies

For Partnership Firms/LLPs:

• Partnership deed or registration certificate

For Trusts:

• Trust deed or certificate of registration number

Benefits of Applying for PAN Online

• Quick and Convenient: No need to visit offices physically.

• Faster Processing: e-PAN issued within a few days.

• Trackable: Application status can be checked anytime online.

• Safe and Secure: Aadhaar-based authentication ensures accuracy.