PAN for Foreign Citizens / NRIs – Complete Guide
Complete guide for NRIs and foreign citizens to apply for PAN, link with bank accounts, and download e-PAN. Step-by-step instructions, documents, fees, and official links.
Table of Contents
1. Who Needs PAN as an NRI or Foreigner
PAN Requirements for NRIs and Foreign Citizens
NRIs or foreigners must have a PAN if they meet any of the following criteria
2. Benefits of PAN for NRIs / Foreign Citizens
Identification for taxation in India
Facilitates investment in Indian stocks and mutual funds
Required for opening bank accounts or fixed deposits
Helps in property transactions
Enables easy filing of Income Tax Returns
3. Applying for PAN – NRIs / Foreign Citizens
Choose the Application Portal
Select between NSDL or UTIITSL for your PAN application
- •NSDL: NSDL NRI PAN Application
- •UTIITSL: UTIITSL NRI PAN Application
Fill the Form
Complete the application form with accurate details
- •Select 'Category – Foreign Citizen / NRI'
- •Provide personal details, passport information, and overseas address
Upload Required Documents
Submit all necessary documents for verification
- •Proof of Identity, Address, and Date of Birth
- •See documents section for complete list
Pay Fees
Complete the payment process
- •Fees for Indian citizens differ from NRIs
- •Online payment available
Submit & Note Acknowledgement Number
Complete the application and save tracking details
- •Keep the Acknowledgement Number safe for tracking
4. Documents Required for NRI / Foreigner PAN
Proof of Identity (POI)
Documents that establish your identity
- Valid FileText
- Overseas National ID (if applicable)
Proof of Address (POA)
Documents that prove your current address
- FileText
- Overseas address proof (utility bill, bank statement, residence certificate)
- Indian address proof (if available)
Proof of Date of Birth (DOB)
Documents that establish your date of birth
- FileText
- Birth Certificate
5. Fees & Charges
Fee Structure
Current fees for NRI and foreign citizen PAN applications
NRIs / Foreign Citizens
Payment Methods:
6. e-PAN & Online Services
Digital PAN Services
Online services available for NRIs and foreign citizens
7. Linking PAN with Aadhaar or Bank – Special Cases
Aadhaar Linking
Foreign citizens without Aadhaar cannot link PAN with Aadhaar
Bank Accounts
PAN can be linked with Indian bank accounts, investment accounts, and mutual funds
Investment Accounts
NRIs must provide proof of overseas residence along with PAN while opening accounts or investing
8. Common Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
Application rejected due to POI mismatch | Ensure FileText or National ID details match exactly |
Delay in PAN processing | Track application online using Acknowledgement Number |
e-PAN not received | Check email/spam folder, contact NSDL/UTIITSL helpline |
Unable to link PAN with bank | Provide valid Indian address proof if required |
9. Official Links & Helpline
Official Portals
NSDL PAN Services
Official NSDL portal for NRI PAN applications
UTIITSL PAN Services
Official UTIITSL portal for NRI PAN applications
Helpline Numbers
NSDL
020 – 27218080
UTIITSL
1800 – 266 – 8080
10. Quick Actions
11. Important Notices
Important Guidelines
Key points to remember for NRI and foreign citizen PAN applications
12. Conclusion
Obtaining a PAN as an NRI or foreign citizen is essential for compliance with Indian tax laws and for financial transactions in India. By following this guide, NRIs and foreigners can apply, link, and download PAN efficiently, avoiding errors, delays, and penalties.
💡 Remember: Always use official NSDL and UTIITSL portals and maintain proper documentation for smooth processing.