Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is one of the most essential identity and financial documents for individuals, businesses, and organizations in India.
Whether you want to file income tax returns, open a bank account, invest in mutual funds, buy property, or receive a salary, a PAN card is mandatory. The good news is you can now apply for a PAN card entirely online without the need to visit any physical office.
In this guide, we will explain how to apply for a PAN card online in 2025, the required documents, application fees, official websites, and important tips to ensure a smooth application process.
What is a PAN Card?
A PAN card contains:
- Your PAN number (10-digit alphanumeric code)
- Full name (as per official records)
- Father’s name (for individuals)
- Date of Birth
- Photograph
- Signature
This number is permanent for a lifetime and does not change, even if you change jobs, location, or bank accounts.
Why is a PAN Card Important?
A PAN card is necessary for various financial and legal transactions in India, including:
- Filing Income Tax Returns
- Opening a bank account (savings or current)
- Applying for a credit card or loan
- Buying or selling property worth over 10 lakh
- Investing in mutual funds, stocks, or fixed deposits above 50,000
- Receiving payments above 50,000 in a single transaction
- Starting a business or registering a company
Without a PAN card, many financial transactions cannot be completed.
Who Can Apply for a PAN Card?
If you are, then you can apply for a PAN card:
1. Indian Citizens (above 18 years of age)
2. Minors (application by parents/guardians)
3. Foreign Nationals earning income in India
4. Partnership Firms, Companies, and Trusts operating in India
Types of PAN Card Application Forms
Form 49A – For Indian citizens (individuals, companies, trusts, etc.)
Form 49AA – For foreign citizens and entities.
Where to Apply for a PAN Card Online?
The Income Tax Department authorizes two portals for online PAN card applications:
1. NSDL (Protean eGov Technologies Ltd)
Website: [https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com] (https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com)
2. UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology And Services Limited)
Website: [https://www.pan.utiitsl.com] (https://www.pan.utiitsl.com)
Both platforms are official and follow similar procedures. You can choose any one depending on your preference.
Documents Required for PAN Card Application
Before applying online, keep the following documents ready:
1. Proof of Identity (POI) – Any one:
Aadhaar Card
Voter ID Card
Passport
Driving License
2. Proof of Address (POA) – Any one:
Aadhaar Card
Electricity Bill (not older than 3 months)
Passport
Bank Statement with bank seal and signature
3. Proof of Date of Birth (DOB) – Any one:
Birth Certificate
Passport
Aadhaar Card
Matriculation Certificate
4. Other Requirements:
Recent passport-size photograph (coloured, white background)
Scanned signature (JPEG format)
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for PAN Card Online
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
For NSDL: [https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com](https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com)
For UTIITSL: [https://www.pan.utiitsl.com](https://www.pan.utiitsl.com)
Step 2: Select the Correct Form
Form 49A for Indian citizens
Form 49AA for foreign citizens
Step 3: Fill in Personal Details
Enter your:
Full Name (as per Aadhaar or official documents)
Date of Birth
Father’s Name (for individuals)
Gender
Aadhaar Number (optional, but recommended for e-KYC)
Ensure all details match your supporting documents.
Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of POI, POA, and DOB proof.
Upload a passport-size photograph and signature.
File formats allowed: JPEG (photo/signature), PDF (documents).
Step 5: Make Payment
For Indian Communication Address: 93 + GST
For Foreign Communication Address: 864 + GST
Payment Methods: Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI, or Demand Draft.
Step 6: Aadhaar-based e-KYC and e-Sign
If you have Aadhaar, you can complete e-KYC by OTP verification on your registered mobile.
e-Sign allows you to submit your application digitally without sending physical documents.
Step 7: Submit the Application**
After successful submission, you’ll get an Acknowledgment Number to track your application.
If not using e-Sign, print the acknowledgment form, attach documents, and send them to the NSDL/UTIITSL address.
Step 8: PAN Card Processing & Delivery
e-PAN is usually sent by email within 2–3 working days.
Physical PAN Card is delivered via post in 10–15 working days.
How to track the status of your PAN card application.
You can track your PAN application using your acknowledgment number:
NSDL: [https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/pantan/StatusTrack.html](https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/pantan/StatusTrack.html)
UTIITSL: [https://www.trackpan.utiitsl.com/PANONLINE](https://www.trackpan.utiitsl.com/PANONLINE)
Common mistakes to avoid while applying for a PAN card online.
1. Spelling mistakes – Make sure your name matches exactly with Aadhaar.
2. Incorrect Document Upload – Ensure clarity and correct format.
3. Wrong Form Selection – Use Form 49A for Indians and Form 49AA for foreigners.
4. Unregistered Mobile for Aadhaar OTP – Without an Aadhaar-linked mobile, you can’t use e-KYC.
Benefits of Applying for a PAN Card Online
Time-Saving – No need to visit any office.
Fast Processing – e-PAN is delivered within 48 hours in many cases.
Paperless Option – Aadhaar-based e-KYC requires no physical documents.
Convenience – Apply from anywhere in India or abroad..
FAQs on PAN Card Online Application
Q1: Can I apply for a PAN card without Aadhaar?
Yes, you can, but you’ll need to send physical documents to NSDL/UTIITSL for verification.
Q2: How long does it take to get a PAN card?
E-PAN: 2-3 days; Physical PAN Card: 10-15 working days.
Q3: Is e-PAN valid like a physical PAN card?
Yes, e-PAN is equally valid and accepted everywhere.
Q4: Can I update details on my PAN card online?
Yes, both NSDL and UTIITSL portals offer PAN correction/update services.
Q5: What is the validity of a PAN card?
A PAN card is valid for a lifetime.
Conclusion
Applying for a PAN card online in 2025 is quick, simple, and efficient. By using NSDL or UTIITSL official portals, you can complete the entire process from your home. With Aadhaar-based e-KYC, you may receive your e-PAN within 48 hours, making it one of the fastest government document services in India.
Make sure to fill in accurate details, upload clear documents, and save your acknowledgment number for tracking. Whether you’re an individual, student, business owner, or foreign national with Indian income, a PAN card is your gateway to smooth financial transactions.
