Congratulations on your first serious step towards your financial journey. We’ve briefly discussed the PAN card, its importance and usability and every component of it in this article. If you’re not very fluent with the financial topics or every component about the PAN cards, you should read this article.

Just a glimpse of the article:

A PAN card (Permanent Account Number) is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. 

This article is more focused on the process of getting the PAN card for you. Let’s dive deep into the steps involved.

Determine Your Eligibility for PAN Card

Before you apply for a PAN card, you need to check if you’re eligible. You don’t need to go anywhere to check your eligibility, its actually pretty simple, if you’re falling in any of 3 , you’re good to go ahead and apply.

The following entities can apply for a PAN card:

Individuals: Any Indian citizen earning income or planning to engage in financial transactions like investments, property purchases, or bank deposits.

Businesses and Companies: For tax filings and business transactions.

Foreign Nationals and NRIs (Non-Resident Indians): If they have income or investments in India.

Documents You Will Need:

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

Proof of Address: Utility bills, Aadhar card, or passport.

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

Choose Your Application Mode: Online or Offline

You can apply for a PAN card through both, online and offline methods:

PAN Card Online Application Method

You can apply online using the official websites of NSDL or UTIITSL, which are authorized to process PAN card applications.

PAN Card Offline Application Method

For those who prefer a physical process, you can apply by visiting an authorized PAN service centre and submitting the required form and documents.

How to Apply for PAN Card Online

If you choose to apply online, follow these simple steps:

Step 1. Visit the Official Website

Go to either the 

• NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited) or 
• UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited) 

website, where you can apply for a PAN card.

Step 2. Choose the Right Form for You

• Form 49A: For Indian citizens (including individuals and companies).
• Form 49AA: For foreign nationals or entities.

Step 3. Fill in the Required Details

• Provide personal information, including name, date of birth, address, and contact details.
• Make sure the information matches your supporting documents.

Step 4. Upload the Necessary Documents

You will need to upload scanned copies of the following:

• Proof of Identity: Aadhar card, voter ID, passport, etc.
• Proof of Address: Utility bills, passport, or Aadhar card.
• Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate or school certificate.

Step 5. Pay the Application Fee

The PAN card application fee is as follows:

• For Indian citizens: ₹110.
• For foreign citizens: ₹1,020 (if the PAN card needs to be sent to a foreign address).
• Payment can be made via debit/credit card, net banking, or demand draft.

Step 6. Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed the form and uploaded your documents, submit the application. You’ll receive an acknowledgment number. This number allows you to track the status of your application.

How to Apply for PAN Card Offline

For offline applications, you can follow these steps:

Download & Print Form 49A

• You can download Form 49A from the NSDL or UTIITSL website or collect it from a PAN service center.

Fill Correct Details in the Form

• Complete the form with personal details such as name, address, and contact information. Double-check that all information is correct and matches your supporting documents.

Attach Supporting Documents

You will need to attach photocopies of:

• Proof of Identity.
• Proof of Address.
• Proof of Date of Birth.

Submit the Form and Pay the Fee

• Submit the filled form along with the required documents at the nearest PAN service center.
• Pay the application fee (₹110 for Indian addresses; ₹1,020 for foreign addresses).

You’ll Receive Your PAN Card by Post

Once your application is processed, your PAN card will be sent to your registered address by post. Processing usually takes around 15-20 working days.

How to Track Your PAN Card Application Status

Once you’ve applied, you can easily track the status of your PAN card application using the acknowledgment number given during the submission process.

• Go to the NSDL or UTIITSL website.
• Enter your acknowledgment number and check the current status of your application.

This allows you to know when your PAN card will be issued or if there are any delays in processing.

Conclusion

Getting a PAN card is an essential step for anyone who needs to engage in financial transactions in India, and it’s quite easy to apply for it as well.

By understanding how to apply for a PAN card, you can smoothly complete the process and receive your PAN card without any hassle.