In today’s digital age, applying for essential documents like the PAN (Permanent Account Number) card has become more convenient than ever. With streamlined procedures introduced by the Income Tax Department of India, applicants can now apply for a PAN card online in as little as two minutes. Whether you’re a salaried employee, business owner, student, or non-resident Indian (NRI), the process is quick, easy, and entirely digital.
This article will walk you through the updated 2025 procedure for applying for a new PAN card online in just two minutes.
What is a PAN Card?
A PAN (Permanent Account Number) card is a unique 10-character alphanumeric identifier issued by the Indian Income Tax Department. It serves as an essential proof of identity and is mandatory for a wide range of financial transactions such as opening a bank account, filing income tax returns, buying or selling property, investing in securities, and more.
Why Apply for a PAN Card Online?
Applying online for a PAN card offers several benefits:
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Time-saving: No need to stand in queues or fill lengthy forms.
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Convenient: Apply anytime, from anywhere.
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Secure: Aadhaar-based e-KYC ensures data safety.
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Instant: In many cases, you can get an e-PAN issued within minutes.
Who Can Apply for a PAN Card?
Anyone can apply for a PAN card, including:
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Indian citizens
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Foreign citizens
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Minors
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NRIs
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Companies and firms
In this article, we focus on how Indian residents can apply for an individual PAN card online in 2025.
Step-by-Step Guide: Apply for a New PAN Card Online in Just 2 Minutes
In 2025, there are two authorized websites to apply for a PAN card online:
Both platforms are officially authorized by the Income Tax Department, and you can choose either. The most efficient and fastest method is through the Aadhaar-based e-KYC process. Here’s how:
Step 1: Visit the Official PAN Application Portal
Go to https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com and click on the “Apply Online for New PAN (Form 49A)” under the PAN Services section.
Alternatively, go to https://www.pan.utiitsl.com and click on “Apply PAN Online”.
For this guide, we’ll use the NSDL portal as an example.
Step 2: Choose the Paperless Option
On the application page, select:
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Application Type: New PAN – Indian Citizen (Form 49A)
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Category: Individual
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Fill in your Name, Date of Birth, Mobile Number, and Email ID.
Choose “Submit digitally through e-KYC & e-Sign (Paperless)” if you have an Aadhaar card.
Step 3: Enter Your Aadhaar Details
You will be prompted to enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number. This number will be used for instant KYC verification. Your photo and signature will be fetched directly from the Aadhaar database.
Make sure the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar is active, as you’ll receive an OTP for verification.
Step 4: Complete e-KYC and e-Sign
After entering the Aadhaar details:
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An OTP will be sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
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Enter the OTP to authenticate your identity.
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Your basic information like name, date of birth, and address will be auto-filled from Aadhaar.
No need to upload any documents, photos, or signatures separately.
Step 5: Payment of Application Fees
Pay the PAN application fee:
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₹50 (including taxes) for Indian addresses
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₹959 for foreign addresses
Payment options include debit/credit card, UPI, net banking, and wallets.
Once the payment is successful, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt number.
Step 6: Instant e-PAN Generation
After successful submission and e-verification, you’ll receive your e-PAN within 2 to 10 minutes in most cases. It will be emailed to your registered email ID.
You can also download your e-PAN by logging into the Income Tax e-filing portal using your Aadhaar number.
Key Requirements to Apply in 2 Minutes
To truly complete the PAN card application process in just 2 minutes, ensure:
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You have a valid Aadhaar number.
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Your Aadhaar is linked with an active mobile number.
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You have access to your email ID.
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You have online payment method ready (credit/debit card, UPI, etc.).
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You choose the e-KYC and e-Sign (Paperless) option.
Advantages of the Instant PAN System
✅ Speed and Simplicity
No physical paperwork, no waiting. The process takes only a few clicks.
✅ Eco-friendly
Paperless verification helps in reducing environmental impact.
✅ Cost-effective
The digital process is low-cost, and there are no courier or print charges for e-PAN.
✅ Secure
Biometric and OTP-based verification ensures data security.
What If You Need a Physical PAN Card?
Although the e-PAN is a valid document and can be used for all official purposes, you can still opt to receive a physical PAN card by selecting the option during the application process. This will be delivered to your postal address within a few days.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar OTP not received | Ensure your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar; retry after a few minutes |
| Application rejected | Double-check Aadhaar details and re-apply with correct information |
| Payment failed | Retry with another payment method |
| Didn’t receive e-PAN | Check your email spam folder or download it from the IT portal |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I apply for a PAN card without Aadhaar?
Yes, but the process will not be instant. You’ll need to submit physical documents and it can take several days.
Q2. Is e-PAN valid everywhere?
Absolutely. e-PAN is a digitally signed document and is accepted for all legal and financial purposes.
Q3. Can minors apply for PAN online?
Yes, but for minors, parents/guardians will have to provide identity and address proof.
Q4. Can NRIs apply through the same process?
NRIs can apply online but may need to submit scanned copies of passport and address proof, depending on their residency and Aadhaar availability.
Conclusion
In 2025, the government of India has made the process of applying for a new PAN card incredibly efficient. With Aadhaar-linked e-KYC and instant e-PAN issuance, it’s now possible to complete the entire application process in just two minutes. No paperwork, no visits to offices, and no long wait times.
If you haven’t applied for your PAN card yet, now is the perfect time. Grab your Aadhaar card, go online, and get your PAN instantly—fast, easy, and secure!