A PAN is mandatory for every person who is required to file a return, and for those who wish to carry out a financial transaction for which the quoting of PAN is compulsory. An NRI (non-resident Indian) also needs to obtain a PAN if he falls into either of the above categories. The procedure to obtain a PAN is fairly simple and similar across all categories of individuals. However, NRIs need to provide certain documents while applying for a PAN, which are specific to them.

Form

NRIs who are Indian citizens have to apply for a PAN by filling Form 49A, while NRIs with citizenship of another country need to fill up Form 49AA. These forms can be accessed, filled and submitted online through the websites of UTIITSL and NSDL. On submitting the form, an acknowledgement copy with a 15 digit number is generated, which needs to be sent to the designated address along with other documents.

Fees

If the communication address provided by the NRI is within India, the fees are `107, and if it is outside India, the fee is `989, which includes application fees and dispatch charges. In case of online applications, the fees may be paid through debitcredit card or through Netbanking.Alternatively, a demand draft favouring UTIITSL NSDL can be dispatched, along with the documents and form.

Documents

Two photographs must be pasted in the space provided in the acknowledgment form. Also to be submitted is a copy of the passport as proof of identity.

Any of the following will serve as proof of address: 

 Copy of passport

Copy of bank account statement in country of residence

Copy of NRE bank account statement showing at least two transactions in six months and duly attested.

Process

The signed form with the requisite documents should reach the designated address within 15 days of the online application. If the payment mode is demand draft, the PAN card is issued on realisation of the payment, and dispatched to the communication address mentioned by the applicant.

NRIs can provide a foreign address as res idential or office address if they do not have any Indian address of their own.

PAN card dispatch facility outside India is available only in select countries. It is best to check the list before applying.