Form 49A for Indian Citizens (Including NRIs)

Learn all about the 49A form, including where to download it, who is eligible, what documents you need, the fee structure, the step-by-step application process, how to fill it out correctly, and more.

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49A PAN form

The information presented on this page regarding the 49A form is specifically designed for non-resident Indians (NRIs) who are living outside of India, with a special emphasis on those residing in The United Kingdom (UK). And please be aware that a NRI is not an OCI/PIO card holder or a 'Person Of Indian Origin' holding a foreign passport (non-Indian passport). An NRI, as the name suggests, is a non-resident Indian (one who is a citizen of India and holds an Indian passport, but resides outside India).

What is a form 49A?

Form No. 49A is one of the three PAN card application types that is used for the allotment of a 'permanent account number (PAN)', and is specifically meant only for Indian citizens (both resident Indians and non-resident Indians - including NRIs living in The United Kingdom or other parts of the world), minors, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), India-based companies and any other entity registered under the Ministry of corporate affairs. It requires the applicant to provide personal details such as their full name, date of birth, address, contact information, and details of identity and address proofs (POAs) submitted for verification.

Once the form is filled and submitted along with the necessary supporting documents, the Income Tax Department processes the application and dispatches the PAN card to the applicant's address as per the POAs.

What is the primary purpose of this form?

The main purpose of 'Form 49A' is to get a 'Permanent Account Number' (PAN). It's needed by both Indian citizens living in India and non-resident Indians (NRIs) with Indian passports to get their PAN cards, whether they're in India or abroad. This form helps the Income Tax Department of India collect important personal details like name, date of birth, and address, along with documents for verification. Once everything is checked, they issue a unique 10-digit alphanumeric PAN to the applicant.

Where to download 49A?

You have 2 options for downloading the form:

Option 1: From an Authorized PAN agency's website (Best option for NRIs). PanCard.co.uk is a reliable PAN card agency website, specifically designed to assist UK residents. With a user-friendly interface and expert guidance, PanCard.co.uk ensures a smooth and efficient application process for obtaining an Indian PAN card.

Option 2: Directly from the Government website: You can download and file your 49A form directly at the government's official portal dedicated to PAN applications. Follow the step-by-step process outlined on the website to complete your application. 

Option #1: Download from a PAN Agency Option #2: Download from the Government
✔️ Best for NRIs, with a Simple process
✔️ Minimal documentation is asked
✔️ An expeperienced agent fills your application with no errors. High success rate
✔️ Both INR (Rs.) and Sterling Pounds (£) are accepted through UK debit/credit cards
✔️ Option of receiving the card via reliable courier
- Application process might seem complex
- Confusing documentation
- Strict paperwork, with a possibility of getting rejected if the form is not filled correctly
- Only INR (Indian rupees) accepted via bank demand draft and Indian debit/credit card
- PAN card sent via local India speed post
Download 49A here DOWNLOAD FROM GOVT

Who Can Apply for a PAN using the 49A application?

1. Indian Citizens: Any individual who is a citizen of India, including minors, need to fill this form for applying their PAN numbers.

2. Hindu Undivided Families: HUFs, which are considered separate entities for tax purposes, are required to fill this form as well.

3. Entities Registered in India: Entities such as firms, partnerships, companies, and trusts that are registered or incorporated in India can apply for a PAN through this form.

4. Non-Resident Indians: NRIs living across the globe, who have taxable income in India or engage in financial transactions must apply for a PAN number using such a form type.

5. Minors: Parents or guardians can apply for a PAN on behalf of minors. The minor's photograph will be replaced with the parent/guardian's photograph on the PAN card.

Who Cannot use this?

1. Foreign Entities: Foreign entities such as companies, organizations, or individuals who do not have any presence or taxable income in India cannot apply for a PAN using Form 49A. They should use Form 49AA for this purpose.

2. Individuals Who Already Possess a PAN: If an individual already holds a PAN, they should not apply for their duplicate copy using this form. In fact, another kind of a form called the CSF form, also known as the 'Request For New PAN Card Or/ And Changes Or Correction in PAN Data' form.

3. Foreign Passport holders: Any individual holding a foreign passport, OCI or PIO card holders cannot utlilize this form.

It is important to note that all the information provided in the PAN application form should be accurate and up-to-date. Providing false or misleading information can lead to penalties and legal consequences. Additionally, individuals who apply for a PAN using Form 49A should ensure that they have valid and acceptable documents as proof of identity, address, and date of birth, as required by the Income Tax Department for PAN verification.

What all information is asked in the 49A form?

This form consists of several sections and fields, each serving a specific purpose in the application process for obtaining a PAN number. Below is a short explanation of each section and the information required to be provided:

Applicant Details: 
- Full Name (as per identity proof documents)
- Father's/Mother's or Guardian's name
- Abbreviation of Name (if necessary)
- Gender
- Date of Birth/Incorporation/Agreement/Partnership or Trust Deed

Address for Communication (as per the prood of address):
- Residence Address/Overseas address in case of NRI
- Office Address (if applicable)

Telephone Number and Email ID:
- Optional but useful for communication with the Income Tax Department

AO Code (Area Code, AO Type, Range Code, and AO Number):
- Identifies the jurisdiction for PAN processing
- Found on the Income Tax Department website based on location

Documents Submitted as Proof of Identity and Address:
- List of self-attested documents for identity and address proof (e.g., Aadhaar card, passport, etc.)

Declaration:
- Applicant's signature and date to confirm the accuracy of provided information

Thumb Impression: 
- For physically disabled applicants who cannot sign
- Must be attested by a Magistrate, Notary Public, or Gazetted Officer

Payment Details: 
- Information about the payment mode used for PAN application. For example bank demand draft, UPI, debit or credit card, cash, etc.

Important Guidlines:

  • Form No. 49A is for Indian citizens, including those Indian citizens who reside outside of India.
  • Fill the form in English, ensuring all mandatory fields marked with an asterisk (*) are completed.
  • Leave a blank space after each word/number/punctuation mark in a field.
  • Avoid applying for a new PAN if you already have one, but update details with the 'Request for New PAN Card or/and Changes or Correction in PAN Data' form if needed.
  • Provide the AO code of the Jurisdictional Assessing Officer (available from the Income Tax Office or through the form's search option).
  • Additionally, enter all the necessary details that is asked, and receive a token number via email for reference and editing before final submission.
  • Choose one of four options (discussed below) for filing your application.
  • Rectify any format level validation errors and resubmit if necessary.
  • If no format level errors, view and confirm the filled data displayed on the confirmation screen.

Are You a NRI, looking to get PAN form 49a?

Types of 49A Application Process: Online and Offline.

Applying for a 'Permanent Account Number (PAN)' for Indian citizens have become easier with 2 types of processes - Online and Offline. Both these processes cater to the needs of local resident Indians and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Additionally, the integration of Aadhaar card and DSC (Digital Signatures) has enabled the instant generation of e-PAN. Let's explore each of these two in detail:

A. Online Application Process:

The online application process offers three options to applicants, providing flexibility and convenience: 

Option 1: Aadhaar based e-KYC:
1. Visit the authorized government website for PAN application.
2. Select the "Aadhaar based e-KYC" option.
3. Provide your Aadhaar number and consent for using Aadhaar details as PAN application information (Name, Date of Birth, Gender, Residential Address, Email ID, Mobile Number & Photograph).
4. Verify the details fetched from your Aadhaar database.
5. Since Aadhaar details are non-editable, ensure the accuracy of the information displayed.
6. The photograph from your Aadhaar card will be used for the PAN card, and no additional photo or signature is required.
7. PAN card will be dispatched to the address mentioned in your Aadhaar database.
8. No need to upload supporting documents or send the PAN application form to the authorities.

Option 2: Scanned based - Aadhaar based e-Sign:
1. Access the government's PAN application portal.
2. Choose the "Scanned based - Aadhaar based e-Sign" option.
3. Fill in the required details in the application form.
4. Upload scanned images of your photograph, signature, and supporting documents as per the defined parameters.
5. Provide your Aadhaar number as a supporting document in the application.
6. No need to send the PAN application form online, but you must forward original documents (Certificate of identity, Bank certificate, Employer certificate) as per Rule 114(4) of Income Tax Rules, 1962, to the designated address.

Option 3: Scanned based - Digital Signature Certificate (DSC):
1. Proceed to the official PAN application website.
2. Opt for the "Scanned based - Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)" option.
3. Complete the application form with accurate details.
4. Upload scanned images of your photograph, signature, and supporting documents as per specified guidelines.
5. No Aadhaar is required for this option.
6. Do not send the PAN application form online, but you must forward original documents (Certificate of identity, Bank certificate, Employer certificate) as per Rule 114(4) of Income Tax Rules, 1962, to the designated address.

It is essential to note that while the online process expedites PAN application, applicants must ensure the accuracy of the information provided and comply with the required documentation. The different options cater to various scenarios, offering applicants a streamlined experience when applying for a PAN card.

Advantages of Online Application Process:

1. Convenience: The online process eliminates the need to visit physical PAN centers, saving time and effort.
2. Real-time Status Tracking: Applicants can track the status of their PAN application in real-time using the acknowledgment number.
3. Faster Processing: The online process expedites PAN application processing, reducing waiting times.

B. Offline Application Process for PAN:

Step 1: The offline application process for PAN involves manually filling out Form 49A and submitting it along with supporting documents and the required fee. Here's how the offline process works:

Step 2: Download and Print the Form: Applicants need to download Form 49A from the official websites of NSDL or UTIITSL and print it on A4 size paper.

Step 3: Fill the Form Manually: Using a BLACK PEN, applicants must fill out the form with accurate personal details, address, source of income, and other required information.

Step 4: Attach Supporting Documents: Applicants must attach self-attested copies of supporting documents, such as identity proof, address proof, and date of birth proof, along with the form.

Step 5: Prepare Demand Draft: For payment, applicants need to prepare a demand draft in Indian rupees in favor of the respective PAN agency (NSDL or UTIITSL) for the applicable fee amount.

Step 6: Submission of Form: The completed form, supporting documents, and demand draft should be sent via post or courier to the designated PAN processing centers.

Step 7: Acknowledgment: After verification and processing, the PAN card is dispatched to the applicant's address. The acknowledgment of the application is sent through the post.


Advantages of Offline Application Process:

1. No Internet Dependency: The offline process is suitable for individuals with limited access to the internet or who prefer traditional methods.
2. Physical Document Submission: Some applicants may feel more secure submitting physical documents rather than uploading them online.

How to correctly fill out Form 49A? (Including NRIs - non-resident Indians living the UK).

As mentioned above, the form 49A can be filled both online as well as offline. The online form can be filled on the government authorized agencies like: UTIITSL and PROTEAN and other PAN agencies in The United Kingdom, like: PanCard.co.uk . Whereas the offiline form can be filled by simply downloading the form from any of the 2 already mentioned agencies wesbite's, or as a NRI you can download it from here

No matter which route (online or offline) you choose for filing your application, the sections, fields and details remain the same.

Below is a detailed explanation of how to fill out Form 49A (be it online or offline) for both resident Indians living in India (including companies registered in India) and NRIs living elsewhere in the world (including the ones residing in the UK):

Section 1 - AO Details:
- For a resident Indian living in India: Enter the AO code, AO type, range code, and AO number as per the jurisdiction of the Income Tax Assessing Officer. This information can be found on the Income Tax Department's website or by contacting the local Income Tax office.
For an NRI living outside India (or in the UK): In the case of an NRI, there is no requirement to enter AO details. The AO code is randomly generated by the income tax department in case the non-resident does not know his/her AO number or the ward.

Section 2 - Applicant's Full Name:
Provide the applicant's full name exactly as it appears on their identity proof documents, like the Aadhaar or Indian passport. For example, "Amit Kumar Singh."

Section 3 - Abbreviation of Name:
If the name exceeds the space provided, the applicant can provide an abbreviation. For example, if the full name is "Sushma Rani Sharma," and there is limited space, it can be abbreviated to "S. R. Sharma."

Section 4 - Other Name(s):
If the applicant has ever been known by any other name, such as a maiden name or a previous name after marriage, they should specify it here. For example, if the applicant's previous name was "Sushma Rani Singh," it should be mentioned. And to proove this, one needs to provide the name change or marriage certificate copy.

Section 5 - Gender:
Select the appropriate gender option (Male, Female, or Others).

Section 6 - Date of Birth:
- For both a resident Indian living in India or a non-resident Indian living in the UK/elsewhere, enter the date of birth in the format DD/MM/YYYY. For example, if the date of birth is 15th August 1985, it should be written as 15/08/1985. Please be advised that in some countries like the USA and Canada, people tend to write in MM/DD/YYYY format. So please make sure, that even if you are from any of these countries, you must still write your date of birth in the DD/MM/YYYY format.

Section 7 - Details of Parents:
- For a resident Indian living in India, provide details of parents (father's and mother's name).
- For an NRI living in the UK or elsewhere, enter details of parents (father's and mother's name) in the same manner.

Section 8 - Full Address:
- For a resident Indian living in India, provide the full residential address in India, including house number, street, locality, city, state, and PIN code.
- For an NRI living overseas, provide the full address (outside India), including house number, street, locality, city, postal code, and country.

Section 9 - Communication Address:
Tick the appropriate box to choose where to receive the PAN card - either the residence address or the office address.

Section 10 - Telephone and Email:
Provide the applicant's telephone number with the country code and STD code, as well as the email ID. For example, if the applicant is from the UK, he has to put his country code as +44, followed by the STD code of the specific county that he lives in (if he is providing a landline number).

Section 11 - Status of Applicant:
Select the applicant's status from the provided options. For example, for a resident Indian individual, choose "Individual," and for an NRI, choose "Individual."

Section 12 - Registration Number:
This field needs to be filled by a organization. Meaning, if the applicant is a company, enter the company's registration number (Corporate Identification Number or CIN).

Section 13 - Aadhaar Details:
- For a resident Indian living in India, enter the Aadhaar card number and related information (such as name as per Aadhaar).
- For an NRI living in the UK, if they possess an Aadhaar card, they can enter the Aadhaar details. If not, this field can be left blank, as quoting an Aadhaar number is not compulsory for NRIs.

Section 14 - Source of Income:
Indicate the source of income from the provided options, such as salary, income from business/profession, or income from house property. For example, if the applicant is a salaried individual, choose "Salary."

Section 15 - Registered Representative Assessee (RA) Details:
This section is not compulsory and can be left blank. However, if needed, then in this section, you may enter the Name and other details of the person who shall act on your behalf to file taxes or represent you in front of the income tax officer, in times of your unavailability. 

Section 16 - Supporting Documents:
Mention the supporting documents being attached with the form. 
- If you are a resident Indian, then for an identity proof you need to attach an aadhaar card, and for an address proof a utility bill or a Indian bank passbook copy. 
- In case of an NRI, a passport copy is must as an identity proof, along with a utility bill or foreign bank statement. For example, in case of a UK NRI, a passport copy needs to be attached as a proof of idenitity (PIO), and UK utility bill or a bank statement showing a UK address must be attached as an proof of address (POA).

Section 17 - Declaration:
- The applicant must sign and date the declaration, stating that the information provided in the form is true, correct, and complete to the best of their knowledge and belief.
- For a resident Indian living in India, mention the place/city where the form is being filled and the date.
- For an NRI living overseas or in the UK, must mention the place/city. For example a UK NRI will mention London as the city, if he lived there along with the date on which he filling the 49A application.

Applicants should ensure that all the information provided in the form is accurate and up-to-date. Any mistakes or discrepancies may lead to delays or rejection of the PAN application. Additionally, the required documents should be submitted along with the form to support the identity, address, and other details provided in the application. 

Some Dos and Dont's for both resident as well as non-resident Indians:

  1. Use Form 49A for applying for a PAN (Permanent Account Number). This form is specifically for Indian residents.
  2. Fill the Application in block letters in English, preferably using black ink, to ensure clarity and legibility.
  3. Paste Two Recent Colour Photographs of size 3.5 cm x 2.5 cm. Make sure the photos are clear and taken against a light background.
  4. Provide Your Signature within the designated box. This is crucial for the verification process.
  5. Thumb Impression Attestation: If you use a thumb impression instead of a signature, it must be attested by a Magistrate, Notary Public, or Gazetted Officer with an official seal and stamp to validate the impression.
  6. Correct AO Code: Ensure you provide the accurate Assessing Officer (AO) code in the application. This code is essential for tax jurisdiction purposes.
  7. Attach Required Documents: Include Proof of Identity (POI), Proof of Address (POA), and Proof of Date of Birth (PODB) as required under Rule 114(4) of the Income Tax Rules, 1962.
  8. Matching Documents: Ensure that the names on your POI, POA, and PODB exactly match the name provided in the application.
  9. Representative Assessee Details: If the applicant is a minor, an idiot, a lunatic, or deceased, provide the details of the Representative Assessee in column 14 of the application form.
  10. POI and POA for Representative Assessee: If a Representative Assessee is appointed, provide their POI and POA as well.
  11. Complete Postal Address: Write your full postal address, including a landmark for easier location identification.
  12. Correct Pin Code: Mention the correct pin code in the address field to avoid postal delays.
  13. Telephone Number and Email ID: Include your telephone number and email ID for further communication and updates.

Don'ts:

  1. No Overwriting or Corrections: Avoid making any overwrites or corrections in the application to prevent it from being rejected.
  2. Do Not Pin or Staple the Photograph: Use glue to paste your photographs, as pinning or stapling can damage the photo and the form.
  3. Signature Guidelines: Do not sign across the box; keep your signature within the designated area.
  4. Document Names: Do not submit POI and POA documents that do not match the applicant's name as written on the form.
  5. Signature Box Instructions: Do not add additional details like date, designation, or rank along with your signature in the box.
  6. Father's Name Column: Do not mention your husband's name in the father's name column.
  7. Name Format: Do not abbreviate your name or use initials; write your full name clearly.
  8. Avoid Duplicate PAN Applications: If you already have a PAN, do not apply for a new one., because having multiple PANs can lead to penalties.
* This information applies to both Indian residents and NRIs living worldwide (including UK NRIs).

Fee Structure for Form 49A Application:

Fees (exclusive of applicable taxes) in INR/₹ Fees (inclusive of applicable taxes) in INR/₹
Physical PAN Card Required - Dispatch within India
Applications submitted Online using physical mode 91 107
Applications submitted Online through paperless modes 86 101
Physical PAN Card Required - Dispatch outside India
Applications submitted Online using physical mode 862 1017
Applications submitted Online through paperless modes 857 1011
Physical PAN Card Not Required - e-PAN Card Dispatch
Applications submitted Online using physical mode 61 72
Applications submitted Online through paperless modes 56 66
Please note that the above mentioned fees is the government processing fee, and are subject to change. So do refer to the government pricing link for the latest quote. Additionally, if you are a NRI living overseas and applying through a PAN agency like ours, then there would be an additional service charge from our end.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) by our clients:

What is Form 49A for?
It is an application form that is required to be filled by only Indian citizens (including NRIs holding Indian passports) for applying a Permanent Account Number (PAN) in India. 

How to fill out 49A application form correctly?
You need to fill it out with accurate personal details, address, source of income, and supporting documents. You may refer to the process here.

Where to submit Form 49A offline?
One can submit this form at any of the authorized centers of NSDL TIN, UTITSL, or PROTEAN Facilitation Centers and at PanCard.co.uk's office (if the NRI is in the UK).

Where to send Form No. 49A for PAN card?
Send Form 49A to the relevant NSDL, PROTEAN or UTIITSL office based on your jurisdiction.

Who accepts 49A form?
The Income Tax Department of India accepts 49A applications.

What is the fee for 49A?
The fee for Form 49A varies based on communication address (within India or outside India). You may check the fee here.

How can I download PAN card Form 49A?
You can download form 49A from the official websites of NSDL or UTIITSL, or from here.

What is 49A acknowledgment number?
The acknowledgment number is a unique reference for tracking the PAN application status.

Who signs the 49A application?
The applicant must sign it. And in case the applicant is a minor, then his/her guardian must sign the same.

Where to track the status of 49A application?
One can track the status of his case on the portal of the agency through which he applied for his PAN.
- If the PAN was applied through PROTEAN, you may track the status here.
- If it was applied through UTIITSL, check the status here.
- In case it was filed through TIN NSDL, application status can be checked here.