Missing your parents’ Indian passports? Learn how UK residents can obtain a Nativity Certificate from India to prove Indian origin for an OCI application.
PAN Card Guides and Insights
A PAN (Permanent Account Number) is the tax identification number the Indian authorities use, and NRIs, OCIs and foreign citizens often need one to sell property, receive income or transact in India. These guides cover who needs a PAN, the application forms and the Form 95 route, PAN Card 2.0, e-PAN versus the physical card, and applying from the UK. Start with the guides, or browse the full list of insights below.
Start here
Complete guide
PAN card for NRIs & foreign citizens
Who needs a PAN and how to apply from the UK.
Read guide ›
Most read
Physical PAN card versus e-PAN
The difference and which one you need.
Read guide ›
How to apply
How to apply for an NRI PAN card (Form 95)
The application route for OCIs and foreign citizens.
Read guide ›
All PAN Card guides
OCI – PAN – Aadhaar Explained: Foreign Citizen
When it comes to the matter of identity and documentation in India, there are several crucial aspects that require consideration. One such aspect pertains to the OCI-PAN-Aadhaar Cards. Foreign Citizens of India may find themselves grappling with the question of...
How to Surrender an Indian Passport in the UK (2026)
Understand how to surrender your Indian passport in the UK: VFS rules, the 3-month grace period, and essential OCI/PAN implications
Indian Property Law Mutation & Help of A POA
management of real estate in India. Under Indian property law, there are various types of properties, including residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial properties
PAN Card India Foreign Citizen Problems: Dos and Don’ts
In this article, we look at key problems for PAN Card India when applying or when you need to update your existing PAN. Subsequently, what you should and shouldn't do if you fall into either category. Before we begin, here is a brief recap on PAN and how to apply from...
Permanent Account Number: Clarified 2023
If you’re in the process of selling Indian property, opening a new Indian bank account such as a Non Resident Ordinary or Non Resident External account, you’ve probably been asked to provide your Permanent Account Number. This article provides you with a round up of a...
Update PAN Card from Resident to NRI
In continuation of our previous articles on updating your existing PAN Card, if you have financial matters in India you may already hold a PAN. We discuss the requirements to update PAN Card from Resident to NRI. In addition, whether you fall under the parameters of...
Capital Gains Tax India & PAN Card – 2023
In this segment you will find information about Capital Gains Tax India and its correlation to PAN Card. As a Foreign Citizen of India with immovable property either inherited, gifted or purchased, frequently the question persists whether capital gains tax is...
Requirements – PAN Card Address Change
If you hold an existing PAN you may need to update your personal information such as your address. In this segment we look at the requirements for PAN Card address change. Beginning with whether or not an application to update your existing PAN can be carried out from...
Benefits of PAN Card – Overseas Citizen of India
This segment details the benefits of PAN Card for an Overseas Citizen of India or a Foreign Citizen. The Permanent Account Number which is commonly known as PAN, is imperative to certain financial activities carried out in India. If you do not hold a PAN, your...
Common questions about the PAN card
Who needs a PAN card in India?
A PAN is generally needed by anyone who sells property, receives certain income, or files a return in India, including NRIs, OCIs and foreign citizens. It is also frequently requested during property and banking transactions. It is the tax identification number the Indian authorities use.
Can you apply for a PAN card from the UK?
Yes. NRIs, OCIs and foreign citizens can apply for a PAN from abroad using the form for their status. The application can be completed from the UK, and the card or e-PAN is issued once the application is accepted.
What is the difference between an e-PAN and a physical PAN card?
An e-PAN is the digital version of the card, issued as a PDF, while the physical PAN card is the printed card posted to the applicant. Both carry the same PAN number, but some transactions ask specifically for one or the other, so it is worth checking which is required.
How Whytecroft Ford can help
The Whytecroft Ford Indian law team helps UK-based NRIs, OCIs and foreign citizens apply for and correct PAN cards, from confirming the right route to assembling the supporting evidence. To discuss a PAN application with our team, call 0208 757 5751 or use the contact form.
The material in this article is provided for guidance and general information only and is not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice upon which you should rely. In particular, the information should not be used as a substitute for a full and proper consultation with a suitably qualified professional. Indian Law is subject to change. Please do contact the Whytecroft Ford team if you require further advice.