PAN Card application for NRI in 2026: Online Application, Documents, Fees and New Forms
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and foreign citizens can apply for an Indian Permanent Account Number (PAN) from outside India through authorised online PAN service providers. A PAN card application for NRI is important for Indian income-tax filing, investments, property transactions, banking and other specified financial activities.
Important PAN Application Update for 2026: Effective 1 April 2026, the Income Tax Department introduced revised PAN application forms under the Income-tax Rules, 2026. Indian citizens living abroad must use Form 93, while foreign citizens, including Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) holding foreign citizenship, must use Form 95. These forms replace the earlier Forms 49A and 49AA for fresh individual applications.
This updated guide explains how to apply for an NRI PAN card online in 2026, the required documents, applicable government fees, processing times, overseas delivery options and common errors to avoid. It also clarifies the differences between PAN applications for Indian NRIs and foreign-citizen OCI holders.
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), PAN card application for NRI is far more than just a regulatory step – it’s an essential gateway to handling financial matters and making investments in India.
Why Do NRIs Need a PAN Card in India?
A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a ten-character alphanumeric identification number issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is used to identify taxpayers and facilitate specified financial transactions.
Although every NRI is not automatically required to obtain a PAN merely because they live outside India, PAN becomes important when undertaking financial activities covered by Indian tax laws and KYC requirements.
1. Income Tax Return Filing
NRIs who are required to file an Indian income-tax return generally need a PAN. This may arise from taxable Indian-source income such as rent, capital gains, business income or other income, subject to applicable exemptions and filing provisions.
2. Investment in Indian Shares and Mutual Funds
PAN is generally required for securities-market and mutual-fund transactions where PAN-based KYC is prescribed. It is also used for identifying investors and maintaining tax records.
3. Purchase or Sale of Property in India
PAN quoting requirements may apply to Indian immovable-property transactions, depending on the transaction value and applicable provisions. NRIs selling Indian property may also require PAN for tax deduction, capital-gains reporting and related compliance.
4. NRE, NRO and Other Banking Transactions
PAN may be requested for banking KYC, financial reporting and specified transactions. The exact requirement depends on the account type and applicable banking and tax rules. An NRI should not assume PAN is universally mandatory for opening every NRE or NRO account.
5. Tax Deduction at Source (TDS)
PAN enables the deductor to identify the recipient for Indian withholding-tax reporting. Failure to provide PAN may result in higher withholding in applicable cases, subject to statutory exceptions, treaty considerations and prescribed relief provisions.
Key takeaway: An NRI should assess the requirement to obtain PAN based on actual Indian income, investments and financial transactions rather than residential status alone.
Documents Required for NRI PAN Card Application in 2026
The documents required for an NRI PAN card application depend on the applicant’s citizenship, current communication address and method of application.
Under the Income-tax Rules, 2026, applicants must provide prescribed proof of identity, address and date of birth, as applicable. The documentation requirements are specified under Rule 158.
Documents for Indian Citizen NRIs — Form 93
Indian citizens residing outside India should generally prepare the following:
Valid Indian passport.
Prescribed proof of identity.
Prescribed proof of current residential or communication address.
Prescribed proof of date of birth.
Active email address and contact number.
Recent photograph and signature, where required by the application method.
Any additional document required by the relevant PAN application instructions.
An Indian passport can serve as supporting identification and date-of-birth documentation under the prescribed requirements. If the applicant uses an overseas communication address, acceptable address proof supporting that address must be provided.
Documents for Foreign Citizens and OCI Cardholders — Form 95
Foreign-citizen applicants, including OCI cardholders who hold a foreign passport, should prepare:
Valid foreign passport or another prescribed identity document.
OCI or PIO card, if applicable.
Acceptable proof of overseas or Indian communication address.
Acceptable proof of date of birth.
Foreign Tax Identification Number (TIN), where required.
Photograph, signature and other prescribed supporting documents.
Authentication or attestation of documents where required by the rules.
Important Documentation Guidelines
The name and date of birth in the application should match the supporting documents.
The selected communication address must be supported by acceptable documentation.
Additional attestation or verification may be required depending on the applicant category and submission mode.
An applicant should use only the documents recognised under the applicable rules and official form instructions.
Physical documents are not required in every application mode; follow the process specified by the authorised provider.
Aadhaar requirement: Aadhaar-related requirements depend on applicable statutory provisions, eligibility and exemptions. Certain non-resident applicants who are not eligible for Aadhaar may be covered by prescribed exceptions. The position should be checked for the applicant’s circumstances.
How to Apply for an NRI PAN Card Online in 2026 — Step-by-Step Process
NRIs and foreign citizens can submit PAN applications through authorised service providers without necessarily visiting India.
Step 1: Visit an Official PAN Application Portal
Open the website of an authorised PAN service provider:
Protean eGov (formerly NSDL): https://tinpan.proteantech.in/services/pan/pan-index
UTIITSL: https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/
These providers facilitate PAN application processing on behalf of the relevant authorities.
Step 2: Choose the Correct PAN Application Form
Select the appropriate form based on citizenship:
Form 93: Indian citizen, including an NRI holding an Indian passport.
Form 95: Individual who is not an Indian citizen, including a foreign-citizen OCI cardholder.
The earlier Forms 49A and 49AA have been replaced for fresh PAN applications from 1 April 2026.
Step 3: Fill in Personal Information
Enter the applicant’s full name, date of birth, nationality, applicable parent details, passport information, contact details and other information required by the selected form.
Ensure that all details match the documentary evidence.
Step 4: Enter Indian or Overseas Communication Address
Enter the address at which communications or the physical PAN card should be delivered, subject to the service provider’s permitted options.
Ensure that the address is supported by prescribed address proof and includes the correct country and postal code.
Step 5: Upload or Submit Supporting Documents
Provide proof of identity, address and date of birth in accordance with the relevant form instructions.
The available submission methods may include paperless electronic verification, digital signature or submission of physical supporting documents.
Not all applicants are eligible for every electronic verification method.
Step 6: Select Physical PAN Card or e-PAN
Choose the required delivery option:
Physical PAN card with an Indian communication address.
Physical PAN card with an overseas communication address.
Electronic PAN without a physical card.
The applicable fee depends on the selected delivery and submission method.
Step 7: Pay the PAN Application Fee
Complete payment using the methods supported by the authorised service provider.
Retain the payment receipt and application acknowledgement.
Step 8: Complete Authentication or Physical Documentation
Where electronic authentication is permitted and successfully completed, physical submission may not be necessary.
Where physical documents are required, follow the provider’s instructions regarding signature, supporting documents, dispatch address and submission deadline.
Step 9: Track the PAN Application
Use the acknowledgement reference to track application status through the authorised service provider’s portal.
An application may be delayed if additional information, corrected documents or verification is required.
Step 10: Receive the PAN
Following successful processing, PAN may be issued electronically and, if selected, the physical card dispatched to the applicable communication address.
If a PAN has already been allotted, applicants should use the prescribed correction process instead of applying for another PAN.
Practical example: An Indian citizen working in Dubai who has never obtained PAN can initiate an application under Form 93. A US citizen holding an OCI card can apply under Form 95. The precise documentation and authentication requirements depend on the applicant’s circumstances.
Do’s for NRI PAN Card Application
- Double-check all personal information carefully (name, DOB, address) to avoid mismatches.
- Ensure the name entered exactly matches the name on your passport — otherwise verification issues may arise.
- Attach a clear and recent passport-sized photo. This is used for identity verification across services.
- Use the correct application category (“NRI” / “Non-Resident Indian”) so that your form is routed correctly.
- If you have opted for overseas delivery, ensure the overseas address is written correctly and legibly.
Common Don’ts in PAN Card Application for NRI
- Do not leave any mandatory fields blank — incomplete forms may be returned, causing delay.
- Avoid submitting outdated or invalid documents — e.g., passport near expiry, invalid bank statements — this can lead to rejection.
- Do not leave the payment process unfinished, or use a card that fails — this will delay the processing.
- Do not assume you’ll get the card instantly — overseas dispatch can take significant time depending on courier/post.
- Do not apply for multiple PAN cards — having duplicate PANs is a violation under section 272B of the Income-tax Act.
Are PAN Cards Mandatory for NRIs?
While it may not be mandatory simply because you are an NRI, a PAN card becomes essential when you engage in certain financial transactions in India such as:
- Earning taxable income in India (salary, rent, interest).
- Making investments in Indian equities or mutual funds.
- Buying or selling immovable property in India above certain thresholds.
- Opening NRE/NRO accounts requiring KYC and tax compliance.
Hence, for most NRIs involved in active financial dealings in India, applying for a PAN card is not optional but necessary.Applying for a PAN card as an NRI involves specific procedures under the PAN card application for NRI process.
Advantages of PAN for NRIs
- Makes it easier to open bank accounts – especially NRE/NRO accounts and link to financial investments.
- Helps streamline tax compliance – for example when filing Indian income tax returns for Indian‐source income.
- A PAN is mandatory for investments in mutual funds and other financial instruments — it verifies identity and avoids TDS at higher rates.
- Provides official numeric identity which Indian banks and financial institutions recognise; reduces friction in operations from abroad.
- Helps to avoid higher withholding tax rates or regulatory penalty for mismatch of KYC/investor information.
Special Considerations for NRIs
- If you hold an overseas address, you must ensure that the overseas address proof covers your current residence (e.g., overseas bank statement, residential permit).
- If you hold an Indian passport but reside abroad, still select “Non-Resident Indian” status.
- If you are a foreign national/OCI/PIO holder, use the correct form (Form 49AA) and ensure your documents (passport, bank statements, address proof) are attested by Indian embassy/consulate or authorised bank branch.
- If you already hold a PAN and need correction (say change of address abroad) then you can apply for re-print/correction.
- Processing times for overseas applications may be longer than for resident Indians. One source estimates 15-20 working days (or more) for overseas delivery.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Mistakes:
- Entering a name that does not match passport exactly (including spelling).
- Uploading poor scan of documents (illegible photographs, blurred bank statements).
- Choosing wrong form (e.g., using Form 49A when you should use 49AA).
- Not sending signed acknowledgement/documents within the required time.
- Incorrect payment or delivery address overseas.
Avoidance:
- Verify passport details exactly (name, surname, date of birth).
- Use high-resolution scans, check file size/format as per portal requirement.
- Read the “applicant category” carefully and select correct one.
- Post your material via reliable courier and retain tracking.
- Confirm overseas address accurately and ensure courier delivery is feasible in that country.
Why Choose Our Services for Your NRI PAN Card Application
Our promise: “Get your PAN card in 5-7 working days without any physical document visits” we handle scanning, submission, courier/dispatch to overseas address.
Summary & Final Checklist
Checklist before submission:
- Passport valid and scan done.
- Overseas address proof (bank statement, residential permit) ready and attested.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs.
- Correct form selected (49A/49AA).
- Payment made and acknowledgement number received.
- Envelope for courier labelled: “APPLICATION FOR PAN – Acknowledgement Number”.
- Tracking kept for courier and tracking number for PAN application.
- Keep copies of all documents and submission proof for future record.
When you complete the process correctly, you secure your PAN card for your Indian financial/investment activities while abroad — reducing tax compliance risk, enabling investment, and facilitating banking.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Please consult qualified experts before acting on any information. K M GATECHA & CO LLP accepts no liability for errors, omissions, or outcomes from the use of this content. This site is not an advertisement or solicitation.
Procedure for Pan Card Application for NRI
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), PAN card application for NRI is far more than just a regulatory step – it’s an essential gateway to handling financial matters and making investments in India.
Why PAN Card for NRI is Essential for Financial Transactions?
A PAN card plays a key role for NRIs engaging with India’s financial systems. Here’s why it’s indispensable:
- It’s a prerequisite for investing in the Indian stock market or mutual funds.
- Necessary for opening NRE/NRO bank accounts to manage finances in India.
- Required for buying or selling property valued above ₹10 lakh.
- Essential for filing income tax returns on earnings from salary, rent, or other Indian sources.
When NRIs miss having a PAN, they may face increased TDS (tax deduction at source), inability to carry out investment transactions smoothly or delays in property settlements.
Documents for PAN card application for NRI – Complete List
To apply for a PAN card as an NRI, you’ll need to provide specific documents as part of the application process. These may vary slightly depending on your status, but generally include:
- Two recent passport-sized photographs.
- A photocopy of your valid passport.
- A copy of your PIO (Person of Indian Origin) or OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card, if applicable.
- Overseas address proof: such as a bank statement from abroad, residential permit, or utility bill.
- If you hold an NRE/NRO bank account in India: a statement showing at least two transactions in last six months, duly attested by authorized officials.
- Date of birth proof such as passport.
Note: Aadhaar is typically not required when applying as an NRI.
Important: Ensure all your documents are valid, attested (if required) and identifiable; mismatch or missing proofs lead to delays. These documents for NRI pan card are mandatory for successful NRI PAN card application whether filed online or offline.
How to Apply PAN Card for NRI Online – Step-by-Step Guide
The following section explains how to apply PAN card for NRI online using authorized portals.Here is a comprehensive step-by-step process to apply for a
PAN card NRI online under the “PAN card for NRI” category:
- Visit the official portal: Access either the website of Protean eGov
Technologies Limited (formerly NSDL) or UTI Infrastructure Technology
& Services Ltd. (UTIITSL) – the authorised agencies for PAN
application. - Choose correct application form:
- For Indian citizens (including NRIs) → Use Form 49A.
- For foreign citizens / OCI / PIO → Use Form 49AA.
(In many NRI cases you may still use Form 49A if you hold Indian
passport but are resident abroad.)
- Fill in personal details: Provide full name, date of birth, e‐mail, mobile
number, current overseas address, and select your status as “Non-Resident
Indian” (if applicable). - Upload scanned documents: Identity proof, address proof, photographs. Must be
clear and legible. - Payment of fee: Pay online using credit/debit card, net banking or UPI. The
fee varies depending on whether the physical card is to be sent
abroad/within India. - Receive acknowledgement: After submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgement
number. Note it for tracking. - Print, sign and dispatch documents (if required): Print the acknowledgement,
attach two passport size photos, sign it and send the signed
acknowledgement along with original or attested copies of documents
(attested by Indian embassy/consulate or authorised bank branch) to the
address of UTIITSL/Protean within the stipulated time (usually 15 days). - Delivery of PAN card: Once verified, the physical PAN card will be dispatched
either to your overseas address or Indian address based on what you opted
for. E-PAN (electronic PAN) may also be issued. - Track application: Use the acknowledgement number on the NSDL/UTIITSL portal
to track status. - Note corrections/changes option: If there are errors in the PAN card later,
you can apply for correction using the relevant form.
NRI PAN Card Application Fees in 2026 — India and Overseas Delivery
The PAN application fee depends on the submission method, whether a physical PAN card is required and whether the communication address is in India or abroad.
The following fee structure is published by Protean eGov and includes applicable taxes:
| Application category | PAN application fee |
|---|---|
| Physical PAN card — Indian address, physical-document mode | ₹107 |
| Physical PAN card — Overseas address, physical-document mode | ₹1,017 |
| Physical PAN card — Indian address, paperless mode | ₹101 |
| Physical PAN card — Overseas address, paperless mode | ₹1,011 |
| e-PAN only — Physical-document mode | ₹72 |
| e-PAN only — Paperless mode | ₹66 |
Is an NRI PAN Card More Expensive Than a Resident Indian PAN Card?
The PAN number itself does not have a separate NRI category or additional NRI-specific tax. The main difference in application costs arises from the delivery method and communication address.
Applicants requesting delivery of a physical PAN card outside India generally incur higher dispatch charges.
Can an NRI Apply for Only an e-PAN?
Yes. Eligible applicants can select an e-PAN-only option through an authorised PAN application process. Where this option is selected, no physical PAN card is dispatched.
Are Professional Fees Included?
No. The government-authorised application charges are separate from any professional fees charged by a Chartered Accountant or other service provider for application assistance.
Important: The fee amounts above are based on the published Protean fee schedule. Applicants should confirm the latest applicable amount on the official portal before making payment, as charges and available modes may change.
Official fee reference: https://tinpan.proteantech.in/faqs/pan/faq-pan-procedure.html
Common NRI PAN Card Application Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Incorrect documentation, mismatched personal information and selection of the wrong form are common reasons for avoidable delays in PAN applications.
1. Selecting the Wrong PAN Application Form
Mistake: An Indian citizen living overseas applies using the form intended for foreign citizens.
Solution: Indian-citizen NRIs must use Form 93. Foreign-citizen individuals, including OCI cardholders who are not Indian citizens, must use Form 95.
2. Name or Date-of-Birth Mismatch
Mistake: The spelling of the applicant’s name or date of birth differs between the PAN application and supporting documents.
Solution: Verify details against the passport and other prescribed documents before submitting the application.
3. Incorrect Overseas Address Proof
Mistake: The applicant provides a communication address that is not supported by acceptable documentary proof.
Solution: Use an address supported by documents recognised under the applicable Income-tax Rules and form instructions.
4. Incomplete Authentication or Physical Submission
Mistake: The applicant pays the application fee but fails to complete required verification or document dispatch.
Solution: Follow the submission instructions and retain confirmation of each completed step.
5. Applying for a Second PAN
Mistake: An individual applies for a new PAN after moving abroad despite already having a valid PAN.
Solution: Continue using the existing PAN. For corrections or changes in PAN records, use the prescribed PAN correction procedure, including Form CR-01 for individuals.
6. Expecting Guaranteed Five-Day Delivery
Mistake: The applicant assumes that payment automatically guarantees PAN allotment and overseas physical delivery within five working days.
Solution: Allow adequate processing time. PAN allotment, e-PAN receipt and international physical-card delivery are different stages and may take different amounts of time.
Final verification checklist: Confirm citizenship, application form, identity documents, overseas address, contact details, payment status and acknowledgement reference before considering the application complete.
Is a PAN Card Mandatory for Every NRI in India?
No. An individual is not automatically required to obtain a PAN merely because they are classified as a Non-Resident Indian (NRI).
However, PAN may become mandatory when the individual is required to file an Indian income-tax return or undertakes specified financial transactions.
Examples include certain property transactions, investments, securities-market activities and other transactions subject to prescribed PAN requirements.
Does an NRI Need PAN for Property Transactions?
PAN quoting and tax-compliance requirements may apply when an NRI purchases or sells immovable property in India. The exact requirement depends on the transaction value, nature of the transaction and applicable legal provisions.
Does an NRI Need PAN for Indian Bank Accounts?
PAN requirements for NRE, NRO and other bank accounts depend on applicable banking KYC and tax regulations. Specific exceptions or alternative documentation may apply.
Does an NRI Need PAN for Income Tax Filing?
An NRI who is required to file an Indian income-tax return generally needs PAN, subject to applicable statutory provisions and exceptions.
Conclusion: An NRI should determine PAN requirements based on the applicable tax obligations and financial transactions, rather than assuming PAN is compulsory solely because of NRI status.
Benefits of Having a PAN Card for NRIs
A Permanent Account Number helps NRIs manage Indian tax compliance and specified financial transactions.
Income-tax compliance: PAN facilitates Indian income-tax return filing, tax payment, refund tracking and communication with the Income Tax Department.
Investment-related KYC: PAN is commonly used for securities, mutual-fund and investment-account verification where prescribed.
Property transactions: PAN is relevant to tax reporting and withholding compliance in applicable Indian property transactions.
Banking and financial records: PAN enables financial institutions to identify account holders and report prescribed transactions.
TDS reporting: Providing PAN helps ensure correct taxpayer identification in withholding-tax reporting. The applicable withholding rate remains subject to the relevant law, exemptions and treaty provisions.
A PAN does not, by itself, change an individual’s income-tax residential status or establish eligibility for any tax exemption.
Special PAN Application Guidelines for NRIs and OCI Cardholders
Indian Citizens Residing Overseas
Indian citizens residing outside India must use Form 93 for fresh PAN applications from 1 April 2026. They should provide the prescribed supporting documents and accurately disclose the information required by the application.
Foreign Citizens Holding OCI Cards
OCI status does not confer Indian citizenship. A foreign-citizen OCI cardholder requiring PAN must use Form 95 rather than Form 93.
Applicants with Overseas Addresses
Applicants using a foreign communication address must provide acceptable supporting address proof. Physical PAN card delivery fees are generally higher for overseas destinations.
Applicants Already Holding PAN
A change in residential status does not automatically require a new PAN. Existing PAN holders should use the applicable correction process to update details where necessary.
NRI PAN Card Processing Time
There is no universal guarantee that every PAN application will be processed or delivered within five working days. Timelines vary depending on application accuracy, verification, submission method and overseas dispatch arrangements.
Applicants should distinguish between PAN allotment, receipt of e-PAN and delivery of the physical card.
Why Choose Our Services for PAN Card Application for NRI
Our promise: “Get your PAN card in 5-7 working days without any physical document visits” we handle scanning, submission, courier/dispatch to overseas address.
NRI PAN Card Application Assistance by K M GATECHA & CO LLP
K M GATECHA & CO LLP is a Chartered Accountancy firm based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, providing income-tax, international taxation and related compliance services to individuals and businesses.
We provide professional assistance to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), foreign citizens and OCI cardholders in understanding their Indian PAN application requirements.
Our NRI PAN Application Assistance Includes
Identifying the applicable PAN application form based on citizenship.
Reviewing identity, address and date-of-birth documents.
Assisting with preparation of PAN application details.
Providing procedural guidance on online submission and verification requirements.
Assisting applicants in understanding application deficiencies and correction procedures.
Providing related Indian income-tax compliance guidance where required.
Contact Our Chartered Accountancy Firm
K M GATECHA & CO LLP
Phone: +91 8000057972
Email: services@kmgcollp.com
Website: https://kmgcollp.com
PAN allotment, processing and delivery remain subject to the verification requirements and procedures of the Income Tax Department and authorised PAN service providers. Professional assistance does not guarantee approval or delivery within a specified period.
NRI PAN Card Application 2026 — Final Checklist
Before submitting an NRI PAN card application, verify the following:
Confirm whether the applicant is an Indian citizen or foreign citizen.
Select Form 93 for an Indian-citizen individual or Form 95 for a foreign-citizen individual.
Verify passport details, name and date of birth.
Arrange prescribed proof of identity, address and date of birth.
Provide foreign Tax Identification Number information where required.
Select the appropriate Indian or overseas communication address.
Choose between physical PAN card and e-PAN-only options.
Check the applicable application fee and payment details.
Complete the prescribed verification and submission process.
Save the acknowledgement number and track the application.
Important: Applicants who already have a PAN should not submit a duplicate application. They should use the prescribed correction procedure where an update is required.
For professional assistance with NRI PAN applications and related Indian tax compliance, contact K M GATECHA & CO LLP at services@kmgcollp.com.
Frequently Asked Questions — NRI PAN Card Application 2026
1. Can an NRI apply for a PAN card online from abroad?
Yes. NRIs can initiate a PAN application through authorised PAN service providers, including Protean eGov and UTIITSL. Supporting-document and verification requirements depend on the application method.
2. Which PAN application form should NRIs use in 2026?
Indian-citizen NRIs must use Form 93 for fresh PAN applications. Individuals who are not Indian citizens, including foreign-citizen OCI cardholders, must use Form 95.
3. Are Form 49A and Form 49AA still valid for fresh PAN applications?
No. From 1 April 2026, the revised PAN forms apply to fresh applications. Forms 93 and 95 replace the earlier forms for the relevant individual applicant categories.
4. Is PAN compulsory for every NRI?
No. PAN is required in specified circumstances, including relevant income-tax obligations and prescribed financial transactions. Residential status alone does not automatically create a requirement to obtain PAN.
5. Can an NRI apply using an overseas address?
Yes. An applicant may use an overseas communication address, subject to applicable proof-of-address requirements and service-provider procedures.
6. What are the PAN card application fees for NRIs?
The published fee depends on submission mode and delivery option. At the time of this update, Protean’s published charges include ₹66 for qualifying paperless e-PAN-only applications and ₹1,017 for physical-card applications dispatched overseas under physical-document mode. Fees should be reconfirmed before payment.
7. Can an NRI obtain PAN within five working days?
No universal five-working-day guarantee applies. Processing depends on verification, application completeness and the selected method. Physical overseas delivery may take additional time.
8. Does an NRI need Aadhaar for PAN?
Aadhaar requirements depend on the applicant’s eligibility and applicable legal exemptions. Some non-resident applicants may qualify for prescribed exceptions. The individual position must be verified.
9. Can an OCI cardholder apply for PAN?
Yes. An OCI cardholder who is not an Indian citizen may apply for PAN under Form 95, subject to the prescribed supporting-document requirements.
10. Does an NRI need to apply for PAN again after moving abroad?
No. An existing valid PAN generally remains valid after a change in residential status. Applicants requiring corrections should use the applicable correction procedure rather than applying for a second PAN.
11. How can an NRI track a PAN application?
An applicant can track the application using the acknowledgement reference on the authorised PAN service provider’s website.
12. Is an e-PAN valid for NRIs?
Yes. An e-PAN is a valid electronic form of PAN. A physical card is not necessarily required for every PAN-related compliance purpose.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Please consult qualified experts before acting on any information. K M GATECHA & CO LLP accepts no liability for errors, omissions, or outcomes from the use of this content. This site is not an advertisement or solicitation.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – NRI PAN Card application
Q. Is the PAN card fee for NRIs different from that for Indian residents?
Yes, the fee depends on the communication address provided during the application. If an overseas address is mentioned, additional dispatch charges apply.
Q. How can NRIs track the status of their PAN card application?
NRIs can check the status of their application online by using the acknowledgment number received after submitting the form.
Q. What is the typical processing time for an NRI PAN card?
It generally takes around 15–20 working days, subject to successful document verification and accuracy of details provided.
Q. Is there any visible difference between a PAN card issued to an NRI and one issued to a resident Indian?
No, there is no external distinction. Both cards look the same and follow the same application process.
Q. Can NRIs apply for only an e-PAN instead of a physical card?
Yes, NRIs have the option to receive a digitally signed e-PAN via email, which holds the same validity as a physical PAN card.
Q. What happens if incorrect information is submitted during the PAN application?
If incorrect or mismatched information is provided, the application may be rejected, or the issued PAN card may require correction through a formal update process.
Q. Can NRIs update or correct their PAN details in the future?
Yes, NRIs can update or correct their PAN details by submitting a ‘Change Request Form’ through the same UTIITSL or Protean platforms, along with supporting documents.
Q. Is it mandatory to link PAN with Aadhaar for NRIs?
No, Aadhaar linking is not mandatory for NRIs, as they are typically not issued an Aadhaar number unless they meet the eligibility criteria of residing in India for a specified period.
What if I already have a PAN issued earlier and now I have moved abroad?
If you hold a PAN that is valid, you do not need a “new” one. However, if your details have changed (e.g., overseas address), you may apply for correction/re-print.
How long does the process take?
For NRIs, assuming documents are correct, it generally takes about 15-20 working days. Overseas delivery may add more time.
Does an NRI need to link Aadhaar to get PAN?
No. Aadhaar is not mandated for NRIs when applying for PAN.
