For numerous reasons, the PAN (Permanent Account Number) Card is a crucial document in India. It acts as a unique identity for persons and companies in India for the taxpayers. The PAN must be quoted when submitting income tax returns and is also necessary for certain financial operations such as opening a bank account, investing in mutual funds, and purchasing real estate.
What Is A PAN Number?
The Indian Income Tax Department issues the Permanent Account Number Card, which is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identity. For tax purposes, the PAN card acts as a unique identifying number for people and companies in India.
The IT Department issues a PAN card in the form of a laminated card to anyone who applies for it or to whom the department allots the number without an application. There is also the option of using an electronic PAN card.
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If you are a foreign citizen looking to apply for a PAN card in India, your first step should be to visit the NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited) website and follow the processes outlined below:
- For international citizens, go to the NSDL PAN application website.
- Depending on your demands, select the appropriate application type (new PAN card, re-issue of PAN card, or changes/corrections to PAN data).
- In the following stage, you must provide all of your personal information, including your name, date of birth, address, email address, and cell phone number.
- Now you have to upload scanned copies of the necessary papers, such as a passport, address proof, and income proof.
- Pay the application cost online with a credit/debit card or using net banking.
- Following payment confirmation, a 15-digit acknowledgment number will be received. Save this number for future use.
- Fill out the application form and attach two current passport-sized pictures to it. In the area provided and sign the form.
- Send the application form along with all the supporting documentation to the NSDL office address shown on the website. The envelope should be labeled “APPLICATION FOR PAN – FOREIGN CITIZEN”.
- Your PAN card will be processed and shipped to you within a few weeks.
