Apply PAN Card For NRI, OCI, British And Foreign Citizen In The UK

What is a PAN card?

A PAN, or Permanent Account Number, is a unique 10-digit identifier issued by the Indian Income Tax Department, printed on a plastic card called the 'PAN card'. It's crucial for tracking financial transactions and tax purposes. For NRIs and foreign nationals, a PAN is required if they earn income in India from investments, property, or businesses. While not mandatory for all, it's essential for paying taxes, filing returns, or conducting financial transactions like opening bank accounts or investing, and more. Without it, these activities become difficult, often leading to higher taxes.

You can think of it as similar to a National Insurance Number (NINO) in the UK or an Aadhaar (UID), although they serve different purposes..

• NINO (National Insurance Number) is a unique number issued to individuals by the UK government for use in the administration of state benefits, tax credits, and national insurance contributions.
• Aadhaar (UID) is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Indian government to residents of India, used for identity verification and access to various government services.
• PAN (Permanent Account Number) is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identifier issued by the Indian Income Tax Department to individuals and entities for tax purposes.

How to apply for a PAN card from the UK?

NRIs, OCIs, and British citizens can apply for a PAN (sometimes referred to as an NRI PAN card) directly through the Indian government website or through any authorized PAN agency. The process of applying for a PAN card from the UK is quite simple and involves the following steps:

1. Complete the appropriate form: NRI applicants should fill out form 49A, while OCIs and foreign citizens should fill out form 49AA. These forms are available here.
2. Pay the required fee after ensuring the form is filled out correctly. 
3. Attach the necessary supporting documents:
   
   For NRIs: A copy of your Indian passport as proof of identity, and a bank statement showing your UK address as proof of address (POA).
   
   For Foreign nationals and OCIs residing in the UK: A copy of your British or UK passport as proof of identity, and a bank statement reflecting your UK address as proof of address (POA).
   
   For entities: A copy of business registration certificate as an identification proof, and tax bill or utility bill as address proof. Both these documents must be apostilled from the UK FCO department or attested by the Indian embassy in your jurisdiction.
   
4. Finally, mail your completed application to an authorized PAN agency or directly to a government PAN processing center.

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What are the benefits of having a PAN for non-residents?

• Tax Filing: If you earn income or invest in India, a PAN card is necessary for filing taxes and reporting income accurately.
• Opening Bank Accounts: Many Indian banks require it for opening savings, fixed deposits, or NRE/NRO accounts, making financial transactions smoother.
• Real Estate Transactions: A PAN card is needed for buying or selling property, registering ownership, and completing paperwork.
• Applying for Loans: Banks and lenders in India use it to verify identity and credit history, which helps with loan approval.
• Starting a Business: A PAN card is essential for registering a business, getting licenses, and meeting tax requirements.
• Lower Withholding Tax: Without it, you may face higher tax rates on income earned in India. A PAN ensures correct tax deductions.

What is the validity of a PAN?

It is valid for life and doesn't expire or need renewal. However, if any details need updating, like your address, citizenship status, or any other detail, then you should notify the Income Tax Department by submitting a CSF application.

What is PAN 2.0?

PAN 2.0 is a proposed update to the current PAN ecosystem 1.0. It aims to improve digital access, make processes faster, and ensure greater accuracy in taxpayer information. This project focuses on simplifying procedures, reducing errors, and encouraging better compliance with tax laws..  PAN 2.0 Explained .

Do you help NRIs to apply for a PAN card 2.0?

Yes, we help non-residents and foreign citizens apply for the latest PAN issued by India’s Income Tax Department. If you apply after the 2.0 version is launched, you will automatically get the new version. For now, you can apply for the regular PAN, which will stay valid even after PAN 2.0 is introduced. No updates, changes or upgrades will be needed.

What documents are required to start a PAN application?

The supporting document requirements are different for various categories like: NRI, foreign national (including PIOs/OCIs) and businesses. ​​Generally, you need to provide the following two mandatory documents:

1. Identity Proof: A copy of your passport, which serves as proof of identity.
2. Address Proof: A copy of a bank statement or a utility bill or OCI/PIO copies that shows your full name and current address in the UK.

Please note that these documents apply to applicants who wish to receive their PAN card in the UK. If you prefer to have it delivered within India, the required documentation may differ. Be sure to check the specific paperwork needed for different categories before proceeding.

Do you need an OCI card to apply for a PAN?

An Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) can apply for a 'Permanent Account Number' in India, but having an OCI card is not mandatory. Applicants can use their UK passport or any other foreign passport instead. This makes the process accessible to both OCI cardholders and individuals without it. In case you wish to obtain an OCI status , you can take assistance from our agency.

How can an OCI apply for a PAN card?

The process to apply for a PAN card for an OCI cardholder is as follows:

• Start by filling out Form 49AA on a PAN agency website like ours, or on Indian government websites such as UTIITSL, NSDL, or Protean.
• Print the filled form and attach required documents: proof of identity (passport, OCI card if available) and proof of address (like a UK utility bill or bank statement).
• Pay using a credit/debit card, net banking, or demand draft. You can pay in GBP in case you are using our services.
• Document attestation is not usually needed for foreign citizens, including OCIs, but check specific requirements.
• If you already have a PAN from when you were an Indian resident, continue using it, but update your OCI status and UK address.
• Applicants need a UK passport and, if available, an OCI card to apply. Non-OCI applicants can still use their UK or other foreign passports to apply.

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Is it mandatory to file an income tax return after getting a PAN?

As far as we know, you are only required to pay taxes and file a return if you earn or accrue income in India. Filing and paying taxes are two different things. However, if you do not earn any income in India, you have the option to file NIL (zero) returns. While it is not mandatory, filing NIL returns can help you maintain good credibility with the Indian government.

References:

https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number
https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/endUserRegisterContact.html
https://incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/tax-services/apply-for-pan.aspx
https://www.protean-tinpan.com/services/pan/foreign-citizen.html