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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.

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All PAN Card guides

NRI PAN Uses

“Including Overseas Citizen of Indian – Foreign Citizens” Continuing from What is a PAN Card. How to apply for NRI PAN?, in this section we further detail the uses of PAN as well as any apparent benefits for individuals living abroad in relation to the parameters of...

AO Code for NRI PAN Card

The correct AO code NRI PAN applications is DLC-C-35-1. Full guide to AO codes for NRIs, OCI holders, and Foreign Citizens apply PAN from UK.

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.