Direct answer. PAN application requires Form 49A (Indians) or Form 49AA (foreigners). Three document categories: Proof of Identity (PoI), Proof of Address (PoA), Proof of Date of Birth (PoDOB). For e-PAN via Aadhaar OTP, NO documents needed — instant + free.
Mandatory documents
Proof of Identity — Aadhaar · Voter ID · Passport · Driving Licence · Ration card with photo · Arms licence · Govt photo ID · Bank certificate (with photo + signature)
Proof of Address — Aadhaar · Voter ID · Passport · Driving Licence · Post Office passbook · Latest electricity/water/gas/landline bill (≤3 months) · Property tax receipt (≤1 year) · Bank statement (≤3 months) · Govt allotment
Proof of Date of Birth — Birth certificate · Matriculation/SSLC certificate · Passport · Aadhaar · Driving Licence · PAN of parents (for minors)
Photograph — Two recent colour passport-size photos (white background)
Signature — In black ink, on white paper, not exceeding the box size on Form 49A
Optional / situational documents
Aadhaar (recommended) — Single Aadhaar copy can serve as PoI + PoA + PoDOB. Saves separate documents.
OCI/PIO card — For NRIs — used as PoI + PoA.
Cancelled cheque (for refund) — Optional but speeds up any future refund.
Specifications + key rules
e-PAN via Aadhaar OTP at incometax.gov.in — completely paperless, free, instant (10 minutes).
For physical card via NSDL/UTIITSL: Rs. 110 (India address), Rs. 1,020 (foreign address).
Photo specifications: 3.5 × 2.5 cm, white background, no glasses/cap, recent (within 6 months).
Signature must fit within the designated box on Form 49A — too long signatures get rejected.
Documents must be self-attested (sign + date on each photocopy).
Where to apply
If you don't have all documents
If PAN application is rejected for “documents inadequate”, file RTI under §4(1)(d) RTI Act to CBDT for the specific deficiency (NSDL/UTIITSL won't tell you in detail). Re-apply with corrected docs.
→ Use our 🪄 AI RTI Drafter to generate a free §6(1) application asking for the rejection reason in 60 seconds.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get PAN without any documents?
Yes — via e-PAN with Aadhaar OTP at incometax.gov.in. Aadhaar = identity + address + DOB + photo + signature, all in one. Free + instant.
Do minors need PAN?
Optional. If parent files joint return or wants PAN-linked accounts for the child, apply with parent as guardian.
What if my photo on PAN is old?
Apply for PAN reprint (Rs. 110) with new photo via NSDL/UTIITSL.
PAN issued under my maiden name; need to update post-marriage?
Apply for PAN correction (Rs. 110) with marriage certificate + fresh ID.
Foreign citizen needs PAN — what documents?
Use Form 49AA + OCI/PIO card or passport + foreign address proof + Indian agent's letter.
Summary + next steps
Gather mandatory documents above before applying — saves a re-visit
Apply via official portal (link above) — no agent needed
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If rejected for “documents inadequate”: request specific deficiency under §4(1)(d) RTI Act
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🎤
AwaazRTI — voice-to-RTI in 11 Indian languages
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Sources
Statutory references: as cited in Specifications above
Official portal: linked in “Where to apply” above
RTI Act 2005 §§4, 6, 7, 19
Last reviewed: 25 April 2026.