For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) looking to apply for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card without an Aadhaar card, understanding the importance of the PAN card is important. The PAN card plays an important role in managing financial and legal aspects of their connections in India. It is required to open bank accounts, invest in assets like real estate and mutual funds, and also fulfill tax obligations.
In this blog, we will outline the specific process NRIs must follow to obtain a PAN card without an Aadhaar number. We will detail the necessary forms, application steps, and associated fees.
- NRIs require a PAN card for various purposes, including banking, investment, tax compliance, and identity verification.
- Indian citizens residing abroad must use "Form 49A", while Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) should use "Form 49AA".
- The fee for obtaining a PAN varies based on the communication address, with costs set at Rs. 101 for Indian addresses and Rs. 1,011 for overseas addresses.
Why Do NRIs Need a PAN Card?
A Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is important for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) due to its various benefits. A PAN card for NRIs has multiple uses. Here are some of the benefits of having an NRI PAN card:

- Opening NRI Bank Accounts: A PAN card is required to open NRE, NRO, or FCNR (B) accounts.
- Investment Opportunities: It allows NRIs to invest in mutual funds, shares, and real estate in India.
- Filing Tax Returns: NRIs with Indian income must file tax returns, and a PAN card is mandatory for NRIs who are required to file an income tax return (ITR) in India.
- Loan Applications: A PAN is essential when applying for personal, home, or business loans in India.
- Identity Verification: The PAN card is often required for passport and visa applications and serves as a valid identity proof in various situations.
Which Form Should NRIs Use for PAN Card Application?
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), seeking a PAN card without an Aadhaar card, individuals who hold Indian citizenship and reside abroad should complete Form 49A. On the other hand, Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) with foreign citizenship, as well as foreign nationals without Indian roots, are required to fill out Form 49AA.
The application process allows for online payment of fees, and the PAN card will be sent to the address you provided during registration.
Obtain an NRI PAN card online from the comfort of your home.
What are the Documents Required for an NRI PAN Card Application?
While submitting the PAN application form, you also need to attach the necessary documents. The documents you need to submit for the PAN card application are as follows:
- Identity proof
- Address proof
- Any document reflecting your date of birth.
What are the Steps to Apply for an NRI PAN Card Without Aadhaar?
An NRI can apply for NRI PAN card without having an Aadhaar card by following the steps mentioned below.

- Step 1: Visit the official portal of NSDL/UTIITSL.
- Step 2: Fill out Form 49A or 49AA, depending on your status.
- Step 3: Enter the required details, such as your name, birth date, parents' details, address, etc.
- Step 4: Upload all the required documents, including your passport and proof of address.
- Step 5: Upload your photograph and digital signature as per the specified format.
- Step 6: Pay the international fee.
- Step 7: Download the filled form.
- Step 8: Sign and attach the required documents (apostille documents).
- Step 9: Courier the documents to India (if needed)
What are the PAN Card Application Fees and Processing Time for NRIs?
The fees for PAN card delivery vary depending on the communication address that is registered by the NRI. The table below shows the applicable PAN card application fees for NRIs:
| Communication Address | Fees |
|---|---|
| Indian Address | Rs. 101 |
| Foreign Address | Rs. 1,011 |
| E-PAN Card | Rs. 66 |
Note that the table shows the fee for paperless applications. You can pay the fee using a credit card, debit card, or via net banking.
Processing Time
The delivery time for international couriers may take up to 20-30 days. However, if you choose an Indian communication address, the delivery time gets faster.
NRIs can also receive an e-PAN at their email within just a few days.
Get complete and personalized NRI ITR Filing assistance at Savetaxs.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a PAN card is vital for NRIs who wish to manage their financial matters effectively in India. It opens the door to various banking options, investment opportunities, and compliance with tax obligations. Understanding the application process is relatively easier, ensuring that NRIs can secure their PAN card efficiently, even without an Aadhaar number.
Additionally, to ensure accurate processing and compliance with current regulations, consulting an expert may be beneficial. In the field of expert services, Savetaxs stands out. We have a team of professionals who have been helping NRIs from more than 90 countries with their PAN card issues. Our team will stay in contact with you throughout the process and assist you by providing end-to-end guidance until your work is done and you are satisfied.
Reach out to us right away as we are working 24*7 across all time zones to provide you with the best.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this guide are personal and do not constitute the views of Savetaxs. Savetaxs or the author will not be responsible for any direct or indirect loss incurred by the reader for taking any decision based on the information or the contents. It is advisable to consult either a CA, CS, CPA, or a professional tax expert from the Savetaxs team, as they are familiar with the current regulations and help you make accurate decisions and maintain accuracy throughout the whole process.
Mr. Ritesh has 20 years of experience in taxation, accounting, business planning, organizational structuring, international trade financing, acquisitions, legal and secretarial services, MIS development, and a host of other areas. Mr Jain is a powerhouse of all things taxation.
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