In today’s digital era, applying for a PAN (Permanent Account Number) card has become incredibly simple and fast. With the advancement in online services by the Income Tax Department of India, it is now possible to apply for a PAN card from the comfort of your home in just 2 minutes. This article provides a complete and updated guide for 2025 on how to apply for a PAN card online, including step-by-step instructions, documents required, benefits, and frequently asked questions.
What is a PAN Card?
A PAN card is a 10-character alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is essential for financial transactions, tax filing, opening a bank account, and more. It serves as proof of identity and is a critical document for Indian citizens and NRIs.
Why is PAN Card Important in 2025?
- Mandatory for income tax filing.
- Required for opening bank accounts and digital wallets.
- Necessary for property purchase or sale.
- Helps track financial transactions to prevent fraud.
- Essential for receiving government subsidies and benefits.
Who Can Apply for a PAN Card?
Anyone can apply for a PAN card, including:
- Indian citizens (individuals and businesses)
- Non-resident Indians (NRIs)
- Foreign nationals conducting business in India
- Minors (via parent/guardian)
Online PAN Card Application Portals in 2025
There are two main authorized portals through which you can apply for a PAN card online in 2025. Both portals are recognized by the Income Tax Department of India. Depending on your preference, you can choose either of the platforms to submit your PAN application.
1. NSDL (Now Protean eGov Technologies)
The NSDL portal is one of the most widely used platforms for PAN card services. It allows individuals and entities to apply for new PAN cards, make corrections, and track application status.
2. UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited)
UTIITSL is another authorized platform for PAN application and related services. It provides a user-friendly interface for new PAN card applications and reprints.
3. Instant e-PAN through Aadhaar (Income Tax Department)
If you have a valid Aadhaar number linked with your mobile, you can get an instant e-PAN issued in just 2 minutes via the official Income Tax portal.
Get Instant e-PAN (via Aadhaar)
How to Apply for PAN Card Online in Just 2 Minutes
Step-by-Step Process (NSDL Portal)
- Visit the official NSDL website: protean-tinpan.com
- Click on “Apply for PAN Online”.
- Select the application type: Form 49A (for Indian citizens) or Form 49AA (for foreign citizens).
- Fill in your personal details such as name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID.
- Select “Digital Mode” for Aadhaar e-KYC (if Aadhaar is linked with mobile for OTP verification).
- Upload scanned documents (if not using Aadhaar-based e-KYC).
- Make the payment (INR 106 for Indian address or INR 1,017 for foreign address).
- Verify your identity using Aadhaar OTP or upload signature/photo.
- Submit the application and download the acknowledgment receipt.
Using Aadhaar for Instant PAN
If you have a valid Aadhaar card linked with a mobile number, you can get your PAN instantly through the Income Tax portal:
- Go to https://www.incometax.gov.in
- Click on “Instant e-PAN” under Quick Links.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and validate using OTP.
- You will receive a PDF of your PAN card instantly (e-PAN).
Documents Required for PAN Card Application
The documents depend on the type of application:
For Individuals (Indian Citizens)
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License
- Address Proof: Aadhaar, Utility bill, Bank statement
- Date of Birth Proof: Birth certificate, 10th pass certificate, Passport
For NRIs and Foreign Nationals
- Passport copy
- OCI/PIO card (if applicable)
- Bank statement from the country of residence
Fees for Online PAN Card Application
- ₹106 (for Indian communication address)
- ₹1,017 (for foreign communication address)
How Long Does It Take to Get PAN?
- e-PAN (via Aadhaar): Instant (within 2 minutes)
- Normal PAN (NSDL/UTI): 7–15 business days
- Physical PAN card is sent via post if opted
Benefits of Applying for PAN Card Online
- No need to visit any office
- Instant PAN via Aadhaar
- Track status online easily
- Secure digital verification
- Environment-friendly paperless process
How to Check PAN Card Application Status
You can track your application status online:
- Visit the NSDL or UTI portal
- Click on “Track PAN Status”
- Enter acknowledgment number
- View current status of your PAN application
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Entering incorrect Aadhaar number or date of birth
- Uploading unclear scanned documents
- Not verifying through OTP when required
- Spelling mistakes in name or address
Can You Have More Than One PAN?
No. It is illegal to possess more than one PAN card. It can lead to penalties under Section 272B of the Income Tax Act.
FAQs on PAN Card Online Application in 2025
❓ Q1. Can I apply for a PAN card without an Aadhaar number?
✔️ Yes, you can apply using alternative identity and address proof documents such as a passport, voter ID, or driving license. However, the Aadhaar-based e-KYC option is faster and more convenient.
❓ Q2. How long does it take to receive a PAN card?
✔️ If you opt for Instant e-PAN using Aadhaar, it is issued within 2 minutes in PDF format. A physical PAN card from NSDL or UTIITSL usually takes 7–15 business days to arrive by post.
❓ Q3. Is an e-PAN valid for all purposes?
✔️ Yes, the e-PAN is digitally signed and legally valid for all financial and government-related purposes. You can use it just like a physical PAN card.
❓ Q4. What should I do if my PAN card has wrong information?
✔️ You should submit a correction request through the same portal where you applied (NSDL or UTIITSL). Select the “Correction in PAN” option and provide valid proof for the correction.
❓ Q5. Can I hold more than one PAN card?
✔️ No, holding multiple PAN cards is illegal and punishable under the Income Tax Act. You must surrender the duplicate PAN to avoid penalties.
❓ Q6. Is it mandatory to link PAN with Aadhaar?
✔️ Yes, the Income Tax Department mandates linking PAN with Aadhaar. Failure to do so may result in your PAN becoming inoperative.
❓ Q7. Can minors apply for a PAN card?
✔️ Yes, parents or legal guardians can apply for a PAN card on behalf of minors. The minor’s photograph and signature are not required in such cases.
❓ Q8. What is the fee for PAN card application in 2025?
✔️ For communication addresses in India, the fee is ₹106. For addresses outside India, the fee is ₹1,017 (including courier charges).
❓ Q9. What if I lose my PAN card?
✔️ You can reprint your PAN card by applying for a duplicate through the NSDL or UTIITSL portal. You’ll need to pay a small reprint fee and provide identity verification.
❓ Q10. How do I track my PAN application status?
✔️ Visit the NSDL or UTIITSL website and enter your acknowledgment number under the “Track PAN Status” section to view real-time updates.
Conclusion
Applying for a PAN card in 2025 has become one of the fastest and easiest government processes, thanks to digitization. Whether you’re an Indian citizen, NRI, or a foreign national doing business in India, you can complete the entire application within minutes, especially if you use Aadhaar-based instant PAN services. Make sure to keep your documents ready, use official portals, and double-check your data before submission. PAN is not just a tax document—it’s a key part of your financial identity. Don’t wait—apply now in just 2 minutes!