The Income Tax Department’s present update to India’s historic PAN system, known as PAN 2.0, aims to increase security and expedite the procedure overall. The new approach facilitates quicker verification and aids in preventing fraud and misuse with the introduction of e-PANs with scannable QR codes.
Those who would rather have a hard copy of the e-PAN can still obtain one for a nominal cost, even though the digital version is free and given quickly via email. It’s crucial to remember that your current PAN card is still valid even if it lacks a QR code, and there is no need for an update.
Here is a straightforward, step-by-step tutorial to assist you with applying for a PAN 2.0 card or obtaining your e-PAN as soon as possible.
Know Your PAN Issuing Agency
For PAN-related services, India has two approved agencies:
- Protean (formerly NSDL e-Governance) UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Ltd (UTIITSL)
- To determine which agency issued your current PAN card, simply check the back side of the card. This will help you apply through the correct platform.
Step-By-Step Guide To Apply For PAN Card 2.0 (Via Protean)
- Go to Protean PAN Reprint, the official reprint gateway.
- Before clicking Submit, provide your date of birth, PAN, Aadhaar number (for persons), and your agreement to the declaration.
- Check your masked PAN information, confirm the dispatch address, and select whether to get the OTP via email, mobile, or both.
- Enter and validate the OTP within ten minutes of receiving it.
- Pay the Rs 50 reprint cost, accept the terms, and go to the checkout page.
- After a payment is successfully made, an acknowledgement receipt will be generated. You will need to download your e-PAN within 24 hours, so make sure to preserve it.
- The digital e-PAN will be accessible via email sooner, and the reprinted PAN card will be delivered to your registered postal address in 15–20 working days.
- With the addition of a QR code, this new procedure ensures simpler verification and cross-platform use while providing convenience and increased security.
