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A PAN, or Permanent Account Number, is a 10-digit alphanumeric code issued by the Income Tax Department. It is essential for financial activities such as filing tax returns, opening bank accounts, and investing in securities.
If you wish to apply for a PAN card, the government has authorised Protean eGov Technologies Limited (previously NSDL e-Gov) to offer an online platform that simplifies the process. Through the NSDL portal, you can apply for a new PAN card, request corrections, or download an e-PAN, without visiting any office in person.
NSDL, or National Securities Depository Limited, is one of the two government-authorised agencies responsible for processing PAN card applications in India. Now known as Protean eGov Technologies Limited, it manages the backend operations for issuing new PANs, updating existing ones, and delivering physical or e-PAN cards.
It operates under the supervision of the Income Tax Department, offering an online portal that handles end-to-end PAN services. From collecting your application to verifying documents and generating your PAN, the NSDL system ensures that each step follows the official guidelines laid down by the government.
You can apply for a PAN card through the NSDL portal if you fall under any of the following categories:
Indian citizens above the age of 18 applying for their first PAN
Minors, with the help of a parent or legal guardian
NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) who need a PAN for income or investments in India
Foreign nationals or entities carrying out business in India
Firms, companies, trusts, and other registered organisations
To apply, you must have valid identity and address documents. If you’re using Aadhaar, ensure your mobile number is linked for OTP verification. Even if you already hold a PAN and want to update or reprint it, you can use the same NSDL portal for that purpose.
You can submit online application for PAN card through NSDL by following these steps:
Visit https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/endUserRegisterContact.html
Select ‘New PAN – Indian Citizen (Form 49A)’ or ‘New PAN – Foreign Citizen (Form 49AA)’ depending on your citizenship
Enter your name, date of birth, contact information, Aadhaar number (if applicable), and other required details
Choose whether you want a physical PAN card, an e-PAN (PDF format), or both
Provide proof of identity, address, and date of birth. You can use e-KYC through Aadhaar, e-sign using OTP, or upload scanned copies.
Pay the application fee online using net banking, debit card, credit card, UPI, or wallet options. Fees vary based on delivery mode and address location.
Submit and note the acknowledgement number
After submission, you will receive a 15-digit acknowledgement number. Use this to track the status of your application. You’ll receive the e-PAN on your registered email ID, while the physical card will be sent to your communication address if opted.
The documents you need depend on the type of applicant. For individual applicants, including minors, here are the basic document requirements:
Proof of Identity (any one of the following)
Aadhaar card
Voter ID card
Passport
Driving licence
Government-issued photo ID
Proof of Address (any one of the following)
Aadhaar card
Electricity or landline bill (not older than 3 months)
Passport
Bank account statement
Rent agreement
Proof of Date of Birth (for individuals and minors)
Birth certificate
Passport
Aadhaar card
Matriculation certificate
Driving licence
If you are applying on behalf of a minor, your documents as a parent or guardian will be required for identity and address proof.
For companies, firms, trusts, or foreign applicants, the list of documents is different and depends on the legal status and registration. These must be officially issued or attested as per the guidelines on the NSDL portal.
The NSDL portal offers more than just new PAN applications. Depending on your need, you can choose from the following options:
1. New PAN Card Application
You can apply for a fresh PAN if you don’t already have one. This is available for individuals, minors, NRIs, companies, and firms.
2. Correction or Update in Existing PAN
If your existing PAN card has incorrect details—such as name, date of birth, or address—you can request a correction using the same portal.
3. Reprint of PAN Card
If your PAN card is lost, damaged, or stolen, you can request a reprint. Your PAN number remains the same, but a new card will be issued.
4. e-PAN Services
You can opt for an e-PAN (a digitally signed PDF version of your PAN card) delivered directly to your registered email ID. This is faster and convenient.
The fee for applying for a PAN card through the NSDL portal varies based on the applicant's location and the mode of PAN card delivery:
Mode of Submission |
PAN Type Selected |
Communication Address |
Fee (Excl. GST) |
Fee (Incl. GST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Physical mode (documents sent by post) |
Physical PAN + e-PAN |
Indian address |
₹91 |
₹107 |
Physical mode (documents sent by post) |
Physical PAN + e-PAN |
Foreign address |
₹862 |
₹1,017 |
Paperless mode (e-KYC, e-Sign, DSC) |
Physical PAN + e-PAN |
Indian address |
₹86 |
₹101 |
Paperless mode (e-KYC, e-Sign, DSC) |
Physical PAN + e-PAN |
Foreign address |
₹857 |
₹1,011 |
Any mode |
e-PAN only |
Indian address |
₹61 |
₹72 |
Any mode |
e-PAN only |
Foreign address |
₹56 |
₹66 |
Instant e-PAN (via IT portal, Aadhaar-linked) |
e-PAN only |
Indian address (Aadhaar linked) |
₹0 |
₹0 |
Disclaimer- The fees mentioned above are as per current guidelines and may change. For the most up-to-date charges and process, please refer to the official NSDL PAN portal.
Once you’ve submitted your PAN application through NSDL, you can easily track its status online. Here’s how to do it:
Visit the NSDL PAN status tracking page https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/pantan/StatusTrack.html
Select the appropriate ‘Application Type’ and enter the 15-digit acknowledgement number you received after submitting your application
Enter the captcha code and click ‘Submit’
Your application status will be displayed on the screen
You can use this tool to check if your documents have been verified, whether the PAN has been issued, and if the card has been dispatched.
Applying for a PAN card through the NSDL portal is a reliable and convenient option for individuals, minors, NRIs, and businesses. The process is simple, and most of it can be completed online using Aadhaar-based verification or digital signatures.
Whether you are applying for the first time, updating details, or reprinting your PAN, NSDL offers a structured process backed by official support. Just ensure your documents are correct and submitted in the chosen format to avoid delays.
You can apply by filling Form 49A on the NSDL portal, uploading documents, making the payment, and submitting the form online.
Yes, you can apply for a free e-PAN if your Aadhaar is linked to your mobile number and you meet the eligibility criteria.
You will get an e-PAN by email, and a physical PAN card will be delivered by post if selected during application.
NSDL processes the application, but the PAN card is officially issued by the Income Tax Department of India.
It usually takes 15 to 20 working days after successful document verification and submission.
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Posted on 16 May
Roshani Ballal
Academy by Bajaj Markets
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