A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is essential for financial transactions such as filing taxes, opening a bank account, or investing in securities. In 2025, applying for a PAN card has become easier with online facilities provided by NSDL (Protean) and UTIITSL.
How to Apply for PAN Card Online
Here’s a complete step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Visit the Official PAN Application Website
Applicants can apply for a new PAN card or reprint/update an existing one through:
- NSDL (Protean eGov): https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com
- UTIITSL: https://www.pan.utiitsl.com
Both portals are authorized by the Income Tax Department to issue PAN cards.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Application Form
Select the form based on your category:
- Form 49A: For Indian citizens, companies, and entities.
- Form 49AA: For foreign citizens or NRIs.
Step 3: Fill in Applicant Details
Enter the required personal and identification details, including:
- Full name (as per Aadhaar/official ID)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Mobile number and email ID
- Aadhaar number (mandatory for Indian residents)
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
For online PAN applications, the following documents are needed:
- Proof of Identity (POI): Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, or driving license
- Proof of Address (POA): Aadhaar card, utility bills, passport, or bank statement
- Proof of Date of Birth: Aadhaar, birth certificate, passport, or matriculation certificate
- Photograph & Signature (for offline verification, scanned copies are accepted online)
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
- For Indian residents: Around ₹93 + GST
- For foreign applicants: Around ₹864 + GST
Payment can be made online using credit card, debit card, UPI, net banking, or demand draft.
Step 6: Aadhaar-Based e-KYC and e-Sign
Applicants with Aadhaar can opt for e-KYC and e-Sign, where authentication is done using OTP on the registered mobile number. In such cases, no physical documents need to be sent.
Step 7: Submit Application and Acknowledgment
After submission, an acknowledgment slip with a 15-digit number is generated. This can be used to track the status of your PAN application online.
Step 8: PAN Card Processing and Delivery
The Income Tax Department verifies the application. Once approved, the PAN number is allotted and communicated via SMS/email. The physical PAN card is usually delivered by post within 10–15 working days.
Additional Tips for 2025 Applicants
- Ensure your Aadhaar details match your PAN application to avoid rejection.
- NRIs and foreign citizens must upload valid passport and visa details.
- e-PAN (digital PAN card) can be downloaded free of cost within minutes of approval.
Benefits of PAN Card in 2025
- Mandatory for ITR filing and financial transactions above ₹50,000.
- Required for opening bank accounts, Demat accounts, and investments.
- Accepted as valid identity proof across India.
- Prevents tax evasion and helps maintain transparency in financial dealings.
FAQs – PAN Card Online Application 2025
1. How long does it take to get a PAN card in 2025?
It usually takes 10–15 working days for the physical card. An e-PAN can be downloaded within 48 hours of approval.
2. Can NRIs apply for a PAN card online?
Yes. NRIs and foreign citizens can apply online using Form 49AA through NSDL or UTIITSL.
3. Is Aadhaar mandatory for PAN card in 2025?
Yes. For Indian citizens, linking Aadhaar with PAN is mandatory. Applications without Aadhaar will be rejected.
4. What is the fee for PAN card application?
- Indian residents: ₹93 + GST
- Foreign citizens: ₹864 + GST
5. Can I download my PAN card online?
Yes. You can download an e-PAN (PDF format) from the NSDL or UTIITSL portal after approval.
6. What should I do if my PAN application is rejected?
Check the rejection reason (often mismatched details) and reapply with correct information and documents.
