How to Get PAN Card for NRIs

For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a critical step in managing financial affairs in India. Whether you’re investing in Indian stocks, purchasing property, opening a bank account, or receiving rental income, a PAN card is mandatory under Indian tax law. Despite living abroad, NRIs are subject to Indian tax regulations when engaging in financial transactions within the country. The PAN card serves as a unique identifier for all financial activities and ensures compliance with the Income Tax Department’s reporting requirements.

Many NRIs assume that because they reside outside India, they are exempt from obtaining a PAN. This is a misconception. The Income Tax Act of 1961 mandates that any individual conducting financial transactions above specified thresholds must possess a PAN. Failure to comply can result in delays, penalties, or even the rejection of applications for property purchases, loans, or investments.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for NRIs seeking to apply for a PAN card from abroad. It covers eligibility, documentation, application methods, processing timelines, and common pitfalls. By following this guide, NRIs can navigate the process with confidence, avoid unnecessary delays, and ensure full compliance with Indian regulatory standards.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before initiating the application, verify that you qualify as an NRI for PAN purposes. According to the Income Tax Department, an NRI is an Indian citizen who has stayed outside India for 182 days or more during the previous financial year (April 1 to March 31). Additionally, individuals of Indian origin holding foreign passports, or foreign citizens of Indian descent, may also be eligible under certain conditions.

If you are an NRI with any of the following financial activities in India, you are required to obtain a PAN card:

• Receiving rental income from Indian property
• Investing in Indian mutual funds, shares, or bonds
• Opening or operating an NRE/NRO bank account
• Purchasing or selling real estate in India
• Receiving dividends, interest, or capital gains from Indian sources

Even if your income is below the taxable limit, possessing a PAN is still mandatory for these transactions. The requirement is transaction-based, not income-based.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

NRIs must submit specific documents to verify identity, address, and nationality. Unlike residents, NRIs cannot use local Indian addresses for proof. All documents must be attested and submitted in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Primary Identity Proof (Choose One):

• Valid Indian passport
• Foreign passport with Indian origin (must show place of birth as India)
• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card
• Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card (if still valid)

Proof of Address (Choose One):

• Foreign passport (with current address)
• Residence permit issued by the foreign government
• Driving license issued by a foreign authority
• Utility bill (electricity, water, gas) issued within the last 3 months
• Bank statement from a foreign bank (not more than 3 months old)

Proof of Date of Birth:

• Indian passport
• Birth certificate issued by a recognized authority
• Matriculation certificate

Important Notes:

• All documents must be self-attested by the applicant.
• Photocopies must be clear and legible.
• If documents are not in English, a certified translation must be attached.
• Do not send original documents; only attested copies are required.

Step 3: Choose the Application Method

NRIs have two primary options to apply for a PAN card: online via the NSDL or UTIITSL portals, or through an authorized agent in India. The online method is strongly recommended for its transparency, speed, and ease of tracking.

Option A: Apply Online via NSDL

• Visit the official NSDL PAN portal: https://www.nsdl.com
• Click on “Apply Online” and select “Form 49AA” (for NRIs and foreign citizens).
• Fill in personal details: Full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and foreign address.
• Upload scanned copies of required documents (PDF or JPEG format, under 100 KB each).
• Select “Foreign Address” as the communication address.
• Choose delivery option: Physical PAN card sent to your foreign address.
• Pay the application fee online using international credit/debit card or net banking.
• Submit the form and retain the acknowledgment number.

Option B: Apply Online via UTIITSL

• Visit the UTIITSL PAN portal: https://www.utiitsl.com
• Select “Apply for New PAN” and choose “Form 49AA”.
• Complete the form with accurate details matching your passport.
• Upload documents and pay the fee (currently ₹1,020 for foreign dispatch).
• Download the acknowledgment receipt for future reference.

Option C: Apply Through an Authorized Agent in India

If you have a trusted relative or financial advisor in India, they can submit your application on your behalf. You must provide them with:

• Notarized copies of all documents
• A signed authorization letter
• A copy of your passport

The agent will fill Form 49AA, submit it to an NSDL/UTIITSL facilitation center, and send you the PAN card via courier once issued. This method is useful if you lack digital access or face challenges uploading documents.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for NRIs varies based on the delivery location:

• ₹1,020 for dispatch within India
• ₹1,020 for dispatch outside India (including courier charges)

Payment can be made online via:

• International credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
• Net banking through supported Indian banks
• UPI via Indian mobile numbers (if accessible)

Ensure the payment is completed successfully. A failed transaction may delay processing. Retain the payment receipt or transaction ID for reference.

Step 5: Upload and Verify Documents

Document upload is a critical step. Incorrect or unattested documents are the leading cause of application rejections.

Ensure that:

• Each document is scanned in color and high resolution.
• The file size does not exceed 100 KB per document.
• Files are in PDF, JPG, or JPEG format only.
• All documents are self-attested with your signature and date.
• Passport copy includes the photo page, signature page, and any visa/entry stamp pages relevant to your NRI status.

Double-check that your name on the application exactly matches your passport. Any discrepancy—even a middle name omission—can lead to rejection.

Step 6: Track Application Status

After submission, you will receive a 15-digit acknowledgment number. Use this to track your application status on either the NSDL or UTIITSL website.

Visit the tracking page and enter:

• Your acknowledgment number
• Your date of birth
• Captcha code

Typical status updates include:

• “Application Received”
• “Documents Under Verification”
• “Approved”
• “Dispatched”

Processing time for NRIs is typically 15–20 working days from the date of document verification. Delays may occur if documents are unclear or require additional verification.

Step 7: Receive Your PAN Card

Once approved, your PAN card will be dispatched to your foreign address via courier. The card includes:

• Your 10-digit PAN number
• Full name as per passport
• Date of birth
• Photograph
• Signature
• QR code for verification

You will also receive a PAN allotment letter via email (if an email was provided). Keep both the physical card and digital copy in a secure location. Many financial institutions in India require a digital copy for verification.

If the card is not received within 25 working days, contact the NSDL or UTIITSL portal using your acknowledgment number to initiate a re-dispatch request.

Best Practices

1. Match Name Exactly with Passport

One of the most common errors is mismatched names. If your passport lists “Rajesh Kumar Sharma,” your PAN application must use the exact same sequence. Do not abbreviate middle names or use initials. Indian tax authorities cross-check PAN details with passport records. Even a single character mismatch can lead to rejection or delays in linking your PAN to bank accounts or investments.

2. Use a Valid Foreign Address

Do not use an Indian address for communication, even if you have family there. The address on your PAN application must match the one on your foreign passport or residence permit. Using an Indian address may trigger additional scrutiny or be flagged as fraudulent.

3. Avoid Using Agent Services Without Verification

While agents can assist, many unscrupulous operators charge excessive fees or submit incomplete applications. Always verify the agent’s credentials through NSDL’s official list of authorized facilitators. Never hand over original documents or make cash payments.

4. Keep Digital Copies Secure

Store scanned copies of your PAN card, passport, and application receipt in a password-protected folder. Use cloud storage with two-factor authentication. Many Indian banks and financial platforms require digital PAN submission during account setup.

5. Update PAN Details if Information Changes

If you change your name due to marriage, or update your foreign address, file a correction request via Form 49A. Failure to update can cause issues when filing tax returns or receiving dividends. The update process is straightforward and can be done online.

6. Link PAN to NRE/NRO Accounts

Before opening an NRE (Non-Resident External) or NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) account, ensure your PAN is linked. Banks will reject account applications without a valid PAN. Linking can be done through internet banking or by submitting a copy to the branch.

7. Retain Proof of Submission

Always save your acknowledgment number, payment receipt, and uploaded document copies. These are essential if you need to escalate a delay or dispute a rejection.

8. Apply Early

Do not wait until the last minute to apply. Processing times can extend during peak seasons (March–April) due to higher application volumes. Apply at least 6–8 weeks before any major financial transaction in India.

Tools and Resources

Official Portals

• NSDL PAN Portal: https://www.nsdl.com – Primary platform for NRI PAN applications. Offers detailed instructions, document checklists, and status tracking.
• UTIITSL PAN Portal: https://www.utiitsl.com – Alternate government-approved portal with similar functionality.
• Income Tax e-Filing Portal: https://www.incometax.gov.in – Use this to verify your PAN status and link it to your tax profile.

Document Verification Tools

• Adobe Scan – Free mobile app to scan and compress documents into PDF format while maintaining clarity.
• Smallpdf – Online tool to resize images under 100 KB without losing readability.
• Google Translate (with Camera) – Useful for translating non-English documents; ensure you use the “Document” mode for accurate text extraction.

Payment Gateways

• PayU – Accepted by NSDL for international card payments.
• Razorpay – Supports multiple international currencies and card types.
• Stripe – Used by some third-party facilitators for secure online payments.

Document Attestation Services

If your documents require notarization or apostille:

• Visit your nearest Indian consulate or embassy for attestation of documents.
• Use certified notary services in your country of residence.
• For countries under the Hague Convention, obtain an apostille stamp for legal validity in India.

Mobile Apps

• DigiLocker – Indian government’s digital locker. Once you receive your PAN, you can upload it here for easy access during financial transactions.
• My PAN Card – Third-party app that allows you to store and share your PAN details securely (ensure it is verified and secure).

Checklist Template

Download or create a simple checklist:

• ☐ Valid passport (copy of photo and signature pages)
• ☐ Foreign address proof (utility bill or bank statement)
• ☐ Date of birth proof (passport or birth certificate)
• ☐ Self-attested copies of all documents
• ☐ Correct name spelling (matches passport)
• ☐ Payment receipt saved
• ☐ Acknowledgment number recorded
• ☐ Email address provided for updates

Real Examples

Example 1: NRI in the United States Applying for PAN

Samantha, an Indian citizen living in New York, inherited a residential property in Mumbai. She receives monthly rent of ₹50,000 and needs to file tax returns in India. She applied for a PAN card using NSDL’s online portal.

• Documents submitted: U.S. passport, New York utility bill, birth certificate.
• Application submitted on January 12, 2024.
• Documents verified on January 18, 2024.
• PAN allotted on January 29, 2024.
• Card delivered to her Manhattan address on February 7, 2024.

She linked her PAN to her NRO account within a week and filed her tax return by July 31, 2024, avoiding any penalties.

Example 2: NRI in the UAE Applying for PAN Through an Agent

Rahul, an NRI based in Dubai, wanted to invest in Indian mutual funds. He did not have access to a credit card and asked his sister in Bangalore to assist.

• He emailed her notarized copies of his passport and UAE residence visa.
• His sister visited an NSDL facilitation center in Bangalore and submitted Form 49AA.
• She paid ₹1,020 via UPI.
• Application status updated to “Approved” on March 5, 2024.
• PAN card was couriered to his Dubai address and received on March 18, 2024.

Rahul successfully invested in three mutual fund schemes within days of receiving his PAN.

Example 3: Rejection and Correction

Amit, an NRI in London, applied for PAN using his Indian passport but listed his address as “Mumbai, India.” His application was rejected with the reason: “Address mismatch.”

He re-applied with:

• Correct UK address from his UK driving license
• Updated Form 49AA with UK as communication address
• Self-attested documents with his signature

Second application submitted on April 10, 2024. Approved on April 22, 2024. Received PAN card on May 2, 2024.

This example highlights the importance of using your current foreign address and avoiding outdated Indian addresses.

Example 4: PAN for Minor NRI

Meera, a 12-year-old Indian citizen living in Canada with her parents, owns a property in Hyderabad. Her parents applied for a PAN card on her behalf.

• Submitted: Meera’s Indian passport, birth certificate, parents’ passports as guardians.
• Selected “Minor” in the application.
• Guardian’s signature and contact details included.
• PAN allotted within 18 days.

Her parents now file tax returns on her behalf using this PAN. This shows that even minors with Indian assets require a PAN.

FAQs

Can NRIs apply for a PAN card from abroad without visiting India?

Yes. NRIs can apply entirely online through NSDL or UTIITSL portals without needing to visit India. All documents can be uploaded digitally, and the card is dispatched to your foreign address.

Is a PAN card mandatory for NRIs with no income in India?

If you have any financial transaction in India—such as property purchase, rental income, or investment in mutual funds—a PAN is mandatory, regardless of whether your income is taxable. It is a regulatory requirement, not an income-based one.

How long does it take to get a PAN card as an NRI?

Typically, 15–20 working days after document verification. If documents are incomplete or unclear, processing may extend to 30 days. Delivery time depends on your country’s postal services.

Can I use my OCI card to apply for a PAN?

Yes. Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders are eligible to apply for a PAN using Form 49AA. The OCI card serves as both identity and nationality proof.

What if my name is spelled differently on my passport and other documents?

Your PAN application name must exactly match your passport. If other documents differ, submit an affidavit explaining the variation, along with supporting documents (e.g., marriage certificate). However, it’s best to ensure consistency before applying.

Can I apply for a PAN card without a passport?

No. A valid passport is the primary identity document for NRIs. Alternative documents like driver’s licenses or national ID cards are not accepted unless accompanied by a passport.

Do I need to pay tax just because I have a PAN card?

No. Having a PAN does not automatically make you liable for tax. It is only a tracking number for financial transactions. Tax liability depends on your income source and residential status under Indian tax law.

Can I update my PAN details (like address) after receiving the card?

Yes. Use Form 49A to update your address, name, or date of birth. This can be done online via NSDL or UTIITSL portals. A small fee applies.

What happens if I lose my PAN card?

You can apply for a duplicate PAN card using Form 49A. Your PAN number remains the same. Only the physical card is reissued. You can also download a PDF e-PAN from the Income Tax e-Filing portal.

Can I link my PAN to my NRI bank account after getting the card?

Yes. Once you receive your PAN, log in to your bank’s internet banking portal and update your PAN details under “Profile” or “KYC.” Alternatively, submit a signed copy to your branch.

Is a digital PAN card valid?

Yes. The e-PAN issued via the Income Tax Department’s portal is legally valid and accepted by banks, mutual funds, and property registrars. It contains a QR code and digital signature.

Can I apply for a PAN card if I am a foreign national of Indian origin?

Yes. Foreign citizens of Indian origin (e.g., descendants of Indian nationals) can apply using Form 49AA. They must provide proof of Indian origin, such as a parent’s or grandparent’s Indian passport or birth certificate.

Conclusion

Obtaining a PAN card as an NRI is not a bureaucratic hurdle—it is a foundational step toward secure, compliant, and efficient financial engagement with India. Whether you are investing in real estate, managing rental income, or participating in India’s growing capital markets, your PAN card is your key to seamless transactions.

This guide has provided a clear, actionable roadmap—from verifying eligibility and gathering documents to submitting your application and tracking its progress. By following the best practices outlined here, you can avoid common pitfalls such as name mismatches, incorrect addresses, and document attestation errors.

The digital transformation of India’s tax infrastructure has made the process more accessible than ever. With online portals, secure payment gateways, and courier delivery, NRIs no longer need to rely on intermediaries or travel to India to obtain their PAN.

Remember: your PAN is not just a number. It is your financial identity in India. Treat it with the same care as your passport. Keep digital and physical copies safe, update details promptly, and link it to all your Indian financial accounts.

By taking the initiative to secure your PAN today, you ensure smoother, faster, and legally compliant financial operations in India for years to come. Start your application now—don’t wait until the next transaction forces your hand.