PAN 2.0 Explained – Key Features, Eligibility, Application Steps

The Permanent Account Number, also commonly known as PAN, has been an essential part of India's financial and administrative systems since its introduction in 1975, ensuring financial transparency and compliance. Recognizing the changes in India's financial landscape, the government has launched the PAN 2.0 project with upgraded features.

PAN 2.0 Project - Introduction

PAN 2.0 is an e-Governance project of the Income Tax Department, which aims to enhance the PAN services with the adoption of advanced technology. A key highlight under this project is the integration of PAN and TAN related services, reducing administrative complexities and improving user convenience.

How PAN 2.0 Is Different From The Existing System ?

Designed to offer seamless digital services and strong security, PAN 2.0 features -
Unique QR Code - Each new PAN card will feature a unique QR code with all the latest details present in the PAN database. It also facilitates the authenticity of PAN card.
Single Platform - At present, PAN related services are handled by e-Filing portal, UTIITSL Portal and Protean e-Gov Portal. Under the new setup, all the services such as PAN/TAN allotment, correction, Online PAN validation and Aadhar-PAN linking will be hosted by a single unified portal of Income Tax Department.

Paperless process - The new project boosts aims to reduce processing delays by promoting paperless transactions.

Enhanced Services - Allocation/updation/correction of PAN card will be done free of charge and e-PAN will be sent to the registered e-mail address. For the physical copy of PAN card, the applicant has to pay Rs 50 for delivery inside India, and Rs 15 plus India post charges at actuals will be levied.

Who Can Apply For PAN 2.0 ?

All the existing PAN cardholders are eligible for this. They can simply request for the new version of PAN card for free. New applicants who fulfil the eligibility criteria can apply for PAN 2.0 along with required documents.

How To Apply For PAN 2.0 ?

Before applying for PAN 2.0, users must check whether their existing card was issued by UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Ltd. (UTIITSL) or the National Securities Depository Ltd. (NSDL). This information will be provided on the back of your existing card.

How To Apply For PAN 2.0 Via UTIITSL

Step 1 - Visit the official UTIITSL website
Step 2 - Enter PAN and personal details
Step 3 - Register e-mail. If it already registered, then you can proceed to next step
Step 4 - Request e-PAN
Step 5 - Confirm the request and make applicable payment, if any.

The process of obtaining e-PAN is free if your PAN was recently issued (within 30 days). However, if you have requested an e-PAN for more than three times, you have to pay a nominal fee of Rs 8.26, including GST.

The e-PAN will be delivered to your registered email address in a PDF format within 30 minutes.

How To Apply For PAN 2.0 Via NSDL

Step 1 - Visit the official NSDL site
Step 2- Enter PAN card and personal information
Step 3 - Verify the details and select OTP delivery method
Step 4 - Make applicable payment, if any, and submit
After submission, e-PAN will be delivered to your registered email address within 30 minutes.