PAN (Permanent Account Number) is one of the most important documents for financial transactions in India. It is issued by the Income Tax Department and is mandatory for opening a bank account, filing ITR, buying property, and many other purposes.
In this guide, we will explain how to apply for a PAN card online and offline, the required documents, fees, and processing time.
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Why is a PAN Card Important?
A PAN card acts as a universal identification number for your financial transactions. It helps the government track taxable transactions and also works as a valid photo ID proof.
You need a PAN card for:
Opening a bank account
Filing income tax returns
Buying or selling property above ₹10 lakh
Investments above a certain limit
Applying for credit/debit cards
Types of PAN Cards
There are mainly two types of PAN cards issued in India:
Individual PAN Card – For salaried persons, students, and common citizens.
Business/Entity PAN Card – For companies, partnerships, trusts, and organizations.
Required Documents for PAN Application
Applicant Type
Identity Proof
Address Proof
Date of Birth Proof
Indian Citizens
Aadhaar / Voter ID / Passport / Driving License
Aadhaar / Utility Bill / Passport
Aadhaar / Birth Certificate / 10th Marksheet
Foreign Citizens
Passport / OCI / PIO Card
Passport / Visa / Bank Statement
Passport / Birth Certificate
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How to Apply for a PAN Card Online?
Follow these steps to apply online through the NSDL or UTIITSL portal:
Step 1: Visit the official NSDL (now Protean) or UTIITSL website. Step 2: Select “New PAN Card Application (Form 49A for Indian citizens)”. Step 3: Fill in your personal details like name, date of birth, mobile number, and Aadhaar. Step 4: Upload scanned copies of required documents (ID, Address, DOB proof). Step 5: Pay the PAN application fees online. Step 6: Submit the form and note down the acknowledgement number.
How to Apply for a PAN Card Offline?
You can also apply offline by following these steps:
Download Form 49A (for Indian citizens) or Form 49AA (for foreigners).
Fill in the required details carefully.
Attach photocopies of ID, Address, and DOB proof.
Affix two passport-size photographs.
Submit the form at the nearest PAN application centre (UTIITSL/NSDL office).
Pay the required fees in cash or a demand draft.
PAN Card Application Fees
Mode
Applicant Type
Fees (Approx.)
Online
Indian Citizens (e-KYC with Aadhaar)
₹93 + GST
Online
Indian Citizens (Physical Docs Submission)
₹110 + GST
Online
Foreign Citizens
₹864 + GST
Offline
All Applicants
Same as above
Processing Time for PAN Card
If applied online with Aadhaar e-KYC → 5 to 7 working days (e-PAN delivered by email).
If applied with physical documents, → 15 to 20 working days (PAN card delivered by post).
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Conclusion
Applying for a PAN card is now simple and quick with the online system. If you have Aadhaar, the process is even faster, and you can get your e-PAN within a week.
So, if you don’t have a PAN card yet, follow the steps mentioned in this guide and apply today.
