PAN Card for Foreign Citizens Best Guide 2025
A PAN card for foreign citizens is an important identification card issued by the Indian government. The Government of India, Income Tax Department, has done an amazing job replacing the old agent-based PSA login system with a new PAN Card portal by UTIITSL. You can check out many remarkable features of UTIITSL Pan services here.
Another powerful feature of UTIITSL PAN services, which has never been introduced before, is that now foreign citizens can apply for their citizenship from outside of India. This is all possible because PAN Services are all online through the portal now. Hence, there is no difference between a citizen residing inside or outside the country.
What is a PAN Card for Foreign Citizens?
A PAN card for foreign citizens is a unique identification card issued by the Indian government. It stands for Permanent Account Number and is mainly used for financial and tax-related activities in India. Foreign citizens who earn income in India or need to conduct business here can apply for it.
This card helps track financial transactions and avoid tax issues. Even if you are not an Indian resident, you can get a PAN card by providing valid documents like your passport and proof of address. It is simple to apply, and both individuals and companies can get it.
Step-by-Step Guide PAN Card for foreign citizens
You can also apply for your PAN card online if you are a foreign citizen of India. The process of applying for a PAN card for foreign citizens is almost the same as the process of applying as an Indian citizen.
Step No 1: Go to the official website of UTIITSL.
Step No 2: Select the option “PAN card for foreign Citizens”, highlighted in the picture below.
Step No 3: Next screen will appear like the one shown in below picture
Here you have four options, as you can see in the picture.
Option No 1: You can select first option to apply for new “PAN card” The process is the same as applying as an Indian citizen. To know detailed process of how to apply click here.
Option No 2: You can select the second option , if you want to regenerate online PAN Application form 49A. This process is again the same as applying as an Indian citizen.
Option No 3: You can select the third option if you want to apply using your digital signature certificate (DSC) for signing online.
Option No 4: Even you can download blank form 49A through the fourth option. Print it, fill it manually and send it to the UTIITSL office by post if you are outside India.
Why Do Foreign Citizens Need a PAN Card in India?
In India, foreign citizens need a PAN card for financial and tax purposes. It is required if they earn income in India, invest in Indian businesses, or need to pay taxes. It helps the government track their financial transactions and ensure compliance with tax laws.
Without a PAN card, foreign citizens may face difficulties opening a bank account, buying property, or investing in India. It is also mandatory for certain financial activities like filing income tax returns or receiving payments, making the PAN card essential for foreigners doing business or earning in India.
Fees for PAN Card Application
The fees for applying for a PAN card as a foreign citizen depend on the mode of application and the communication address. If the PAN card is sent to an address in India, the fee is usually lower. For addresses outside India, the fee is higher due to international delivery charges.
On average, the application fee for a PAN card sent within India is around ₹100 to ₹150. For foreign addresses, the fee can range from ₹900 to ₹1,000, including courier charges. These fees may vary slightly depending on the service provider or changes in government rules. Always check the latest fee structure before applying.
How Long Does It Take to Get a PAN Card?
The time to get a PAN card for foreign citizens depends on the application method. If applied online, it usually takes 7 to 10 working days to process the application after submitting all the required documents. For offline applications, the process may take 15 to 20 working days.
Once the application is processed, the PAN card is sent to the provided address. If the address is outside India, delivery may take longer, depending on the location. To avoid delays, ensure all documents are correct and complete when applying.
Benefits
Having a PAN card offers several benefits to foreigners in India. It allows them to pay taxes, file income tax returns, and comply with Indian tax laws. This is essential for anyone earning income or running a business in India.
A PAN card for foreign citizens also helps foreigners open bank accounts, invest in mutual funds, and buy property in India. It serves as a valid ID proof for financial transactions. With a PAN card, foreigners can avoid higher tax deductions and smoothly conduct business or personal financial activities in India.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
Applying for a PAN card is simple, but certain mistakes can cause delays or rejections. One common mistake is providing incorrect personal details, such as your name or date of birth, which must match the documents you submit. Submitting incomplete or invalid documents, like expired ID proof or missing address proof, can also lead to issues.
Another error is choosing the wrong application type; foreign citizens need to use Form 49AA specifically designed for them. Entering an incorrect communication address is another problem, as it may cause your PAN card to be sent to the wrong location. Lastly, failing to pay the correct fee, especially if your address is outside India, can result in application rejection. Avoiding these mistakes ensures a smooth and hassle-free process.
How to Track Your PAN Card Application Status?
Tracking your PAN card for foreign citizens application status is a simple process. After submitting your application, you receive an acknowledgment number. This number is used to check the status.
To track your application, visit the official NSDL or UTIITSL website. Enter your acknowledgment number and select the appropriate option, such as “PAN – New/Change Request.” Once submitted, the current status of your application will be displayed.
You can see if your application is under process, approved, or dispatched. For offline tracking, you can call the helpline number provided by the authorities and share your acknowledgment number to get updates.