How to apply for a new Pan Card?

This guide simplifies the online application process through the Protean (formerly NSDL) portal.

Below we have discussed the three different methods of submitting a PAN card application form:

Method 1: Physical submission of the documents and new PAN Card request form

For this, you fill the details online, take a printout of the duly filled form, and affix two recent passport-size photographs. After this, sign the paper in the mentioned fields using Black Ink and send it along with self-attested document copies to the Protean address in Pune via mail.

Method 2: Complete the e-KYC process with the help of your Aadhaar card

If you want your PAN card allotment to be based entirely on information displayed on your Aadhaar card, follow this method. It is 100% paperless. The Income Tax Department receives your Aadhaar details like official name, DOB, and photo. You won’t be asked to upload any documents, and the card is dispatched to your Aadhaar address. 📱

Method 3: Scan Based e-Sign Method

This is the most popular online method for those who want a custom photograph and signature on their card. You must scan and upload images of your documents, photo, and signature on the Protean portal. 📸

📋 Checklist of Documents (2026 Updated)

Before starting, ensure you have these documents ready (scanned as PDFs for Method 3):

• Proof of Identity: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License. 🆔

• Proof of Address: Electricity bill, Water bill (under 3 months old), or Bank Statement. 🏠

• Proof of Birth: Birth Certificate, 10th Standard Passing Certificate, or Aadhaar. 🎂

🛠️ Tool Guide: How to Compress PDF to under 300 KB

The Protean portal strictly requires document PDFs to be under 300 KB. If your file is too large:

1. Online Tool: Use  Pi7 PDF Tool. 💻

2. Pro Tip: Convert the PDF to Grayscale (Black and White). This reduces file size by up to 50% without losing quality. Set your scanner to 200 DPI for the perfect balance.

New PAN Application: Step-by-step application process using eKYC and eSign ⚡

1. Visit the website protean-tinpan.com.

2. Under 'Quick links', click on 'Online PAN Services' and then 'Paperless PAN Application'.

3. Register by selecting 'New PAN Indian Citizen (Form 49A)' and select 'Individual' from Category.

4. Enter your Title, Name, Date of Birth, Email ID, and Mobile Number.

5. Click the consent checkbox and enter the Captcha to submit.

6. A Token Number will be generated and sent to your email. Click 'Continue with PAN Application'.

7. Select the mode 'Submit digitally through e-KYC & e-Sign'.

8. Choose if a Physical PAN card is required (Select 'Yes' for a plastic card or 'No' for just an e-PAN).

9. Enter the last four digits of your Aadhaar carefully.

10. Parental Details: Enter Father's name (Mandatory). Since May 2024, if the mother is a single parent, you can opt to have her name printed instead. 👨‍👩‍👦

11. Contact Details: Select your source of income. Address details will be auto-fetched from Aadhaar.

12. AO Code: Select your State and City; pick the appropriate Assessing Officer code from the list provided. 📍

13. Confirmation: Enter the first 8 digits of your Aadhaar to verify all details.

14. Payment: Pay the fee (approx. ₹101–₹107) using UPI, Net Banking, or Card. 💳

15. Authentication: Perform Aadhaar OTP authentication.

16. e-Sign: Enter your full Aadhaar number and the final OTP to digitally sign the application.

17. Result: You will receive your e-PAN via email within 2 hours, and the physical card will be delivered in 7–10 days. 🎉

New PAN Application: Step-by-step process using Scanned Images (Method 3) 📸

1. Follow steps 1–6 from the e-KYC method above.

2. Select the mode 'Submit scanned images through e-Sign'.

3. Enter Aadhaar details and Name exactly as it appears on your ID.

4. Fill in Parents' details and Contact/AO Code info as mentioned above.

5. Upload Photo/Signature:

   • Photo: JPEG, under 50 KB.

   • Signature: JPEG, under 50 KB  — Use Black Ink! ✒️

🛠️ Tool Guide: How to Compress JPEG to under 50 KB

The Protean portal strictly requires document PDFs to be under 300 KB. If your file is too large:

Online Tool: Use  Pi7 Image Tool. 💻

6. Upload Documents: Upload your ID, Address, and DOB proofs as PDFs (under 300 KB each).

7. Complete Payment and Aadhaar OTP Authentication.

8. Perform the final e-Sign to submit.

Things to Consider While Applying

• Token Number: Always save your token number to resume a partial application.

• Black Ink: Always use a black pen for signatures to ensure the scanner captures it clearly. 🖋️

• Validation: Check for error pop-ups before final submission to avoid rejection.

Conclusion

The procedure for PAN card application online in 2026 is designed to be user-friendly. By following these steps and ensuring your documents are properly compressed, you can ensure your application reaches the issuing officer on time without any hassle.