A PAN (Permanent Account Number) card is an essential identification document for both individuals and businesses in India, used for financial transactions and meeting income tax requirements. Generally, it takes up to 15 days to process a PAN application, but an express service is available to get it issued in as little as 48 hours.
This guide explains the fast-track application process and provides a list of documents required to obtain your PAN card without delays.
How to Apply for a PAN Card Online in 48 Hours
Applying online is the quickest way to get a PAN card within two days. This process uses e-sign to sign the application digitally, allowing faster KYC verification and document approval.
Steps to apply for a PAN card in 48 hours:
- Visit the official Protean (formerly NSDL) website.
- In the ‘Application for allotment of New PAN’ section, click ‘Apply Now’.
- Fill in the required details including application type, category, full name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number, then click ‘Submit’.
- A token number will be generated—note it down to proceed with your application.
- Select ‘Submit digitally through e-KYC and e-Sign’ as the submission method. Choose ‘No’ for a physical PAN card to avoid additional time for delivery.
- Enter your personal, contact, and AO (Assessing Officer) information.
- Upload the necessary documents, make the payment, and click ‘Submit’.
After submission, you will receive an acknowledgement number to track your application. If the documents and details are in order, the PAN card will be issued and sent to your registered email within 48 hours.
How to Apply for a PAN Card Offline in 48 Hours
If you prefer applying offline and want your PAN card within 48 hours, follow these steps:
- Download and print the PAN application form (Form 49A).
- Fill in the form carefully, ensuring all details are accurate and complete.
- Submit the form along with the required documents at the nearest PAN service center.
- Pay the applicable fee and request an e-PAN for faster delivery. The authorities will verify your documents and process the application.
Once the information is verified, your PAN will be issued and sent within 48 hours.
Documents Required for PAN Card in 48 Hours
You will need valid proof of identity, date of birth, and address.
Proof of Identity (any one):
- Aadhaar card
- Passport
- Voter ID card
- Photo ID issued by central/state government or PSU
- Ration card with photo
- CGHS card
- Pensioner card copy
- Driving licence
- Arms licence
Proof of Date of Birth (any one):
- Birth certificate
- Birth certificate issued by Indian Consulate
- Driving licence
- Matriculation certificate
- Passport
- Pension payment order
- Affidavit before a magistrate stating date of birth
- Marriage certificate from registrar
- Domicile certificate issued by government
Proof of Address (any one):
- Utility bill (not older than 3 months)
- Passport
- Voter ID card
- Aadhaar card
- Bank statement
- Post office passbook with address
- Spouse’s passport
- Property tax assessment order
- Property registration document
- Driving licence
- Domicile certificate issued by government
- Accommodation allotment letter from central/state government (not older than 3 years)
Can I Get a PAN Card Directly from the Income Tax Office?
No, the Income Tax Department does not issue or distribute PAN cards in person. After you apply, your details are verified by the relevant authorities. Once approved, the PAN card is sent to your registered address or email. If you miss the delivery, you can collect it from the local post office with valid KYC proof.
With the fast-track services from Protean and UTIITSL, you can get your PAN number by email within 48 hours, which is helpful for urgent financial or tax-related needs. For offline applications, having all documents ready ensures faster processing.
FAQs
Q. Can I get a PAN card in 2 days?
Yes, you can receive an e-PAN within 48 hours via the fast-track service from Protean or UTIITSL for both online and offline applications. The e-PAN is sent by email; the physical card may take longer.
Q. When can I check the status of my application?
You can check the status 24 hours after submission using the acknowledgment number on Protean or UTIITSL’s website.
Q. Is it possible to get a PAN card immediately?
Yes, if you have Aadhaar linked to your mobile number, you can use the instant e-PAN service to get it within minutes. This is only for e-PAN, not the physical card.
Q. Can I apply for a PAN card more than once?
No, holding multiple PAN cards is illegal. If yours is lost or damaged, apply for a duplicate.
Q. What is an e-PAN?
It is a digitally signed PDF version of your PAN card with the same legal validity as the physical card.
Q. Can NRIs get a PAN card in 48 hours?
Yes, NRIs can also apply using the fast-track service, but they must provide valid overseas documentation.
Q. Is Aadhaar mandatory for instant PAN?
Yes, for the instant e-PAN service, Aadhaar must be linked to your mobile number.
Q. What if I enter incorrect details?
Incorrect information can cause delays or rejection. If issued with errors, submit a correction request.
Q. Can I download my e-PAN after it is issued?
Yes, it can be downloaded from the Income Tax Department, Protean, or UTIITSL websites using your PAN number and date of birth.
