Permanent account number (PAN) is a code that acts as an identification for individuals, families and corporates (Indian and Foreign as well), especially those who pay Income Tax. It is a unique, 10-character alpha-numeric identifier, issued to all judicial entities identifiable under the Indian Income Tax Act, 1961. The Income Tax PAN code and its linked card are issued under Section 139A of the Income Tax Act. It is issued by the Indian Income Tax Department under the supervision of the Central Board for Direct Taxes (CBDT) and it also serves as an important proof of identification. It is also issued to foreign nationals (such as investors) subject to a valid visa , and hence that PAN is not acceptable as a proof of Indian citizenship. The PAN is mandatory for a majority of financial transactions such as opening a bank account, receiving taxable salary or professional fees, sale or purchase of assets above specified limits etc.; especially high-value transactions. The primary purpose of the PAN is to bring a universal identification to all financial transactions and to prevent tax evasion by keeping track of monetary transactions, especially those of high-net-worth individuals who can impact the economy.

Document Acceptable
Aadhaar Card
Voter Identify Card (Voter ID)
Arms License
Passport
Driving License
Ration card having photograph of the applicant
Electricity Bil
Central Government Health Scheme Card or Ex-servicemen
Pensioner Card having photograph of the applicant

Important Links
Apply (Indian Citizens)	NSDL	UTIITSL
Apply (Foreign Citizens)	NSDL	UTIITSL
Guidelines	NSDL	UTIITSL
Required Documents	NSDL	UTIITSL
Correction (Online)	NSDL	UTIITSL
Check Status/Track PAN card	NSDL	UTIITSL
Link Pan Card to Aadhaar Card	N/A	UTIITSL