A Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a crucial document for anyone engaging in financial transactions within India. Issued by the Income Tax Department, a PAN card serves as a unique identifier for individuals, families, and entities involved in economic activities. Whether you are an Indian citizen, a foreign national residing in India, or a corporate entity, understanding the eligibility criteria and the required documentation for obtaining a PAN card is essential. This guide will outline who can apply for a PAN card, the specific eligibility requirements for Indian citizens, and the documents needed for a PAN card application.
Who can apply for a PAN card?
A PAN (Permanent Account Number) card can be applied for by any individual or entity that requires financial transactions within India. This includes Indian citizens, foreign nationals residing in India, companies, partnership firms, trusts, and charitable organisations. Essentially, anyone involved in taxable activities, or needing to file tax returns, or carrying out high-value financial transactions is eligible to apply for a PAN card. The PAN card is a crucial identification tool used by the Income Tax Department to track financial transactions and prevent tax evasion.
PAN card eligibility for Indian citizens
Individual applicants
Indian citizens, including minors and students, can apply for a PAN card. Guardians or parents can apply on behalf of minors. Adults, including salaried individuals, self-employed persons, and professionals, are also eligible.
Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs)
A Hindu Undivided Family can apply for a PAN card through its Karta, the family head, who will be responsible for all financial transactions made in the family’s name.
Companies and firms
Registered companies, partnership firms, and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) operating in India must have a PAN card for conducting financial transactions and for filing taxes.
Trusts and associations
Trusts, associations of persons (AOPs), body of individuals (BOIs), and local authorities can also apply for a PAN card to handle their financial dealings.
PAN card eligibility for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and foreign citizens
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and foreign citizens seeking to engage in financial transactions within India are required to possess a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card. To apply for a PAN card, individuals must submit the necessary documents, including:
- Identification proof: Valid passport or any other equivalent government-issued identification document.
- Address proof: Recent utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement with a valid address in India.
- Date of birth proof: Birth certificate or any other official document verifying the individual's date of birth.
Please note that specific requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and the nature of financial activities. It is advisable to consult the official guidelines or seek professional advice for accurate and up-to-date information.
Documents required for PAN card application
Proof of Identity
- Individuals: Aadhaar card, voter ID, driving licence, passport, or a government-issued ID card with a photograph.
- HUFs: An affidavit by the Karta with details of the family members.
- Companies: Certificate of incorporation issued by the Registrar of Companies.
- Partnership Firms: Partnership deed.
Proof of Address
- Individuals: Aadhaar card, voter ID, driving licence, passport, utility bills (electricity, water, gas), or a domicile certificate.
- HUFs: An affidavit by the Karta including the family’s address.
- Companies: Registered office address proof, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or certificate of incorporation.
- Partnership Firms: Partnership deed showing the firm’s address.
Proof of Date of Birth (for individuals)
Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, matriculation certificate, passport, Aadhaar card, or any government-issued document that includes the date of birth.
Additional documents for specific entities
- Trusts: Trust deed or certificate of registration number issued by Charity Commissioner.
- Associations, AOPs, BOIs, and local authorities: Agreement or certificate of registration number issued by the competent authority.
These documents must be self-attested and submitted along with the PAN card application form. Once the application and documents are verified, the PAN card is issued, facilitating a wide range of financial transactions and tax-related activities within India.
Key benefits of a PAN card
- Tax compliance: Necessary for filing income tax returns.
- Identification: Serves as a reliable proof of identity.
- Financial services: Required for opening bank accounts, depository accounts, and applying for credit cards or loans.
- Property transactions: Mandated for property purchases or sales exceeding Rs. 5 lakh.
- Large payments: Essential for payments exceeding Rs. 25,000 to restaurants or Rs. 50,000 for bank deposits or investments.
- Vehicle transactions: Required for buying or selling automobiles (excluding two-wheelers).