A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a unique alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is crucial for tax filing, financial transactions, and identity verification. Whether you are an individual, a business entity, or a foreign national earning taxable income in India, having a PAN card is essential.
In this guide, we will cover everything about PAN card eligibility, the required documents, and the application process.
Who Can Apply for a PAN Card?
There is a common misconception that only adults above 18 years can apply for a PAN card. However, as per Section 160 of the Income Tax Act, there is no minimum age limit for obtaining a PAN card. Even minors and newborns can get a PAN card if needed.
Below are the different categories of individuals and entities eligible for a PAN card:
1. Individuals (Indian Citizens)
✅ Adults (Above 18 years) – Any Indian citizen can apply using valid identity, address, and birth date proof.
✅ Minors (Below 18 years) – Parents/guardians can apply for a minor’s PAN card on their behalf.
✅ Individuals with Disabilities (Mental Retardation) – A legal representative can apply for a PAN on behalf of the individual.
2. Hindu Undivided Family (HUF)
- A Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) is a separate legal entity that can apply for a PAN card.
- The Karta (Head of the family) needs to submit proof of identity, address, and an affidavit with details of all family members.
3. Indian Companies & Business Entities
- Private Limited Companies
- Public Limited Companies
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)
- Partnership Firms
- Trusts & Associations
- Local Authorities
- Artificial Juridical Persons
A business entity must register with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) and provide the Certificate of Incorporation to get a PAN card.
4. Foreign Citizens & Entities
Foreigners conducting financial transactions in India or setting up a business must obtain a PAN card. They can apply using Form 49AA.
PAN Card Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens
Indian citizens applying for a PAN card must meet the following criteria:
| Category | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Individuals | Must be an Indian citizen with valid ID, address proof, and date of birth proof. |
| Minors | Parents or legal guardians can apply on behalf of minors. |
| HUF (Hindu Undivided Family) | Karta of the family applies and submits relevant documents. |
| Companies & Firms | Must be registered under the Registrar of Companies or Firms. |
| Trusts | Must provide a Trust Deed and Charity Commissioner Registration Certificate. |
PAN Card Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Citizens & Entities
Foreign nationals or companies doing business in India must meet these eligibility criteria:
| Category | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Foreign Citizens | Must provide a valid passport, visa, and proof of Indian residence. |
| Foreign Companies | Must provide a registration certificate issued by Indian authorities. |
| Foreign Investors | Must submit TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) or CIN (Citizenship Identification Number). |
Documents Required for PAN Card Application
For Indian Citizens & Entities
| Category | Identity Proof | Address Proof |
|---|---|---|
| Individuals | Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License | Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Bank Statement, Utility Bill |
| Minors | Birth Certificate + Parent’s Aadhaar | Parent’s Aadhaar or Address Proof |
| HUF | Affidavit signed by Karta | Address proof of Karta |
| Companies | Certificate of Incorporation | Business Address Proof |
| Trusts | Trust Deed + Charity Registration Certificate | Address proof of Trust |
For Foreign Citizens & Companies
| Category | Identity Proof | Address Proof |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Citizens | Passport, OCI/PIO Card | Visa, Utility Bill, Indian Bank Statement |
| Foreign Companies | Certificate of Incorporation | Address proof issued by Indian Authorities |
How to Apply for a PAN Card?
Applying for a PAN card is simple and can be done online or offline.
1. Online Process (For Indian Citizens)
✅ Visit the NSDL/UTIITSL website.
✅ Select Form 49A (for Indian Citizens) or Form 49AA (for Foreign Citizens).
✅ Fill in the details like name, date of birth, mobile number, and email.
✅ Upload identity, address, and date of birth proof.
✅ Pay the application fee:
- ₹101 for Indian Citizens
- ₹1,011 for Foreign Nationals
✅ After payment, you will receive an Acknowledgement Number to track the application status.
2. Offline Process
✅ Download Form 49A from the NSDL website.
✅ Fill in all details manually.
✅ Attach two passport-size photos (3.5 cm x 2.5 cm).
✅ Submit the form at the nearest PAN Service Center along with identity and address proof.
✅ Pay the required fee via Demand Draft or Bank Challan.
✅ After verification, you will receive the PAN card via post.
Benefits of PAN Card
A PAN card is essential for various financial and legal transactions. Here’s why you need one:
✅ Income Tax Filing – Required for filing income tax returns.
✅ Identification Proof – Valid government-issued ID proof.
✅ Opening a Bank Account – Mandatory for savings and business accounts.
✅ Credit & Loan Applications – Required for home loans, car loans, and personal loans.
✅ Investments – Needed for stock market investments and mutual funds.
✅ Property Transactions – Required for buying or selling property above ₹5 lakh.
✅ Cash Deposits Above ₹50,000 – Mandatory for high-value transactions.
✅ Foreign Exchange Transactions – Required for sending/receiving money abroad.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the minimum age to apply for a PAN card?
There is no minimum age for applying for a PAN card. Even newborns can get a PAN card.
2. Can a minor have a PAN card?
Yes, parents or guardians can apply for a PAN card for minors.
3. Can I apply for a PAN card without Aadhaar?
Yes, you can apply using other ID and address proofs like a Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License.
4. Is a PAN card mandatory for opening a bank account?
Yes, as per RBI guidelines, PAN is required for opening bank accounts except for small accounts with limited transactions.
5. How long does it take to get a PAN card?
It usually takes 7-15 days after successful application submission.
Conclusion
A PAN card is a crucial document for financial and tax-related activities in India. Whether you are an individual, a company, or a foreign entity, applying for a PAN card is a simple process if you meet the eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documents.
If you haven’t applied for a PAN card yet, do it today to ensure hassle-free financial transactions and compliance with Indian tax laws. 🚀