PAN Card Eligibility

If you’re looking to apply for a PAN (Permanent Account Number) card in India, understanding the eligibility criteria and required documents is crucial. Whether you’re an Indian citizen or a foreign national, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.

For Indian Citizens

Eligibility Criteria

Any Indian citizen can apply for a PAN card. There is no minimum age limit, meaning even minors can have a PAN card. However, for minors, the application must be made by a parent or guardian.

Required Documents

To apply for a PAN card, you’ll need to submit the following documents:

1. Proof of Identity (any one of the following):
   • Aadhaar Card
   • Voter ID Card
   • Passport
   • Driving License
   • Ration Card with photograph
   • Arm’s License
   • Pensioner’s Card with photograph
   • Central Government Health Scheme Card
   • Bank certificate on letterhead with photograph
2. Proof of Address (any one of the following):
   • Aadhaar Card
   • Voter ID Card
   • Passport
   • Driving License
   • Electricity Bill
   • Landline Telephone Bill
   • Bank Account Statement
   • Credit Card Statement
   • Employer Certificate
3. Proof of Date of Birth (any one of the following):
   • Birth Certificate
   • Matriculation Certificate
   • Passport
   • Driving License
   • Pension Payment Order
   • Marriage Certificate issued by Registrar of Marriages

Application Form

Indian citizens should use Form 49A for PAN card applications.

For Foreign Citizens

Eligibility Criteria

Foreign nationals who wish to conduct financial transactions in India, such as investing in the stock market, purchasing property, or earning taxable income, are required to obtain a PAN card.

Required Documents

Foreign applicants need to submit the following documents:

1. Proof of Identity (any one of the following):
   • Copy of Passport
   • Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card issued by the Government of India
   • Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card issued by the Government of India
   • Other national or citizenship identification number or Taxpayer Identification Number duly attested by “Apostille” or by the Indian Embassy/High Commission/Consulate
2. Proof of Address (any one of the following):
   • Copy of Passport
   • Bank account statement in the country of residence
   • Non-resident external (NRE) bank account statement in India
   • Certificate of residence in India or residential permit issued by the State Police Authorities
   • Registration certificate issued by the Foreigner’s Registration Office showing Indian address
   • Visa granted and copy of appointment letter or contract from an Indian company and certificate (in original) of Indian address issued by the employer

Application Form

Foreign citizens should use Form 49AA for PAN card applications.

PAN Card 2.0 Update (Effective July 1, 2025)

Starting July 1, 2025, the Indian government has introduced PAN Card 2.0, which mandates Aadhaar authentication for all new PAN card applications by Indian citizens. This initiative aims to streamline the process and enhance transparency. Applicants must ensure they possess a valid Aadhaar number during the PAN application process once the rule comes into effect.

How to Apply

1. Online Application:
   • Visit the official NSDL or UTIITSL websites.
   • Select the appropriate form (Form 49A for Indian citizens, Form 49AA for foreign citizens).
   • Fill in the required details and upload the necessary documents.
   • Pay the application fee online.
   • Submit the application and note the acknowledgment number for tracking.
2. Offline Application:
   • Obtain the physical form (Form 49A or 49AA) from PAN centers or download it from the official websites.
   • Fill in the form manually and attach the required documents.
   • Submit the form at the nearest PAN Service Center along with the application fee.

For more detailed information and to apply online, you can visit the official Income Tax Department’s PAN Services portal.