The Permanent Account Number (PAN) is an indispensable identification document for taxpayers in India, applicable to individuals, companies, and firms alike. Obtaining a PAN card is a pivotal step in managing financial transactions and complying with tax regulations. This comprehensive guide explores the process of applying for a PAN card through the NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited), covering online and PAN Application Centre methods, tracking the application status, downloading the e-PAN, and reprinting the card if needed.
About NSDL
National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) is a central securities depository based in India, playing a pivotal role in the country’s financial infrastructure. Established in 1996, NSDL serves as a repository for electronic securities, facilitating the seamless and secure holding, transfer, and settlement of financial instruments.
One of NSDL’s primary functions is the dematerialisation of securities, which involves converting physical share certificates into electronic or dematerialised form. This process enhances efficiency, reduces the risk of loss or theft, and enables easy transfer and trading of securities on the stock exchanges.
NSDL is also involved in the issuance and maintenance of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) cards, a unique identification number required for taxation purposes in India. Through its PAN services, NSDL facilitates the application, tracking, and issuance of PAN cards, streamlining the process for individuals and entities across the country. Following are the services provided by NSDL:
PAN card application process
Online application
To apply for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) online on NSDL, follow these steps:
- Visit the NSDL PAN application portal
- Choose the appropriate application type:
- New PAN for Indian citizens or foreign citizens
- Change/correction in existing PAN data
- Pay the application fee (Rs. 91 for Indian communication address, Rs. 862 for foreign communication address) using credit/debit card, demand draft, or net banking
- After payment, send the supporting documents via courier/post to NSDL for processing
PAN application centre
To apply for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) offline at an application centre, follow these steps:
Download the form:
- Visit the NSDL e-Gov website
- Download Form 49A if you are an Indian residen
Fill in the form:
- Complete the form with accurate details
- Attach your signature and photograph to the application
Visit the nearest PAN centre:
- Locate a PAN centre near you by visiting the official NSDL website
- Submit the filled form along with the required documents (proof of identity, address, and photographs) to the PAN centre
Pay the fees:
- Pay the processing fee at the enter
Remember to carry all necessary documents and follow the guidelines for a successful PAN application.
Check PAN application status
To check PAN application status on NSDL, follow these steps:
- Visit the NSDL PAN/TAN application status tracking page
- Select the appropriate application type:
- Choose ‘PAN-New/Change Request’ from the drop-down menu under ‘Application Type’
- Enter your Acknowledgement Number in the provided box
- Complete the captcha code verification
- Click on the ‘Verify Status of Application’ button to see the PAN application status
Download e-PAN
To download your e-PAN on NSDL, follow these steps:
- Access the NSDL e-PAN download page for a digital version of the physical PAN card
- Authenticate your identity using Aadhaar through OTP or biometric verification
- Download the e-PAN card at no cost if allotted or changes were confirmed within the last 30 days
Reprint your PAN card
Eligibility
This facility is available for PAN holders whose latest PAN application was processed through Protean (formerly NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Limited) or those who obtained PAN using the ‘Instant e-PAN’ facility on the e-filing portal of the Income Tax Department (ITD).
Steps to reprint your PAN through the NSDL portal:
- Visit the NSDL Reprint of PAN card page for lost or damaged PAN cards
- Fill in the ‘Request for Reprint of PAN card’ from using details like PAN, Aadhaar number, and DOB
- Enter the captcha and click on submit
Note: The charges for reprinting your PAN card are as follows:
- For dispatch of PAN card within India (inclusive of taxes): Rs. 50.00
- For dispatch of PAN card outside India (inclusive of taxes): Rs. 959.00
Conclusion
The NSDL PAN card stands as a vital identification document for taxpayers in India, ensuring seamless financial transactions and adherence to tax regulations. NSDL, with its pivotal role in dematerialising securities and PAN card services, has become a cornerstone of India’s financial infrastructure since its establishment in 1996. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the PAN card application process, tracking status, e-PAN download, and the reprinting procedure through NSDL. As individuals and entities navigate this process, they contribute to a more efficient and secure financial ecosystem under the guidance of NSDL.
