If you’re wondering how to apply for a PAN Card for children, you’re not alone. More and more parents are realizing the benefits of having a PAN Card for children early on. A PAN (Permanent Account Number) card isn’t just for working adults—it can serve as an essential identity document and open doors to many financial and legal benefits, even for minors.
Who Can Apply for a PAN Card for Children?
Parents or Guardians as Applicants
A child under the age of 18 cannot apply for a PAN Card on their own. The application must be submitted by the parent or legal guardian on behalf of the child.
Age Criteria
There is no minimum age limit. Even a newborn can be issued a PAN Card if the documentation is complete and submitted correctly.
Reasons to Apply for a PAN Card for Children
- Opening Bank Accounts: Some banks require a PAN Card to open a minor account.
- Investments: Mutual funds and stock investments in the child’s name require a PAN.
- Tax Benefits: Claiming deductions under various tax-saving schemes.
- Educational Requirements: Scholarships and educational loans may ask for a PAN.
- Passport and Visa: Helpful in faster processing of official documents like passports.
Documents Required to Apply for PAN Card for Children
| Document Type | Required Proofs |
|---|---|
| Identity Proof | Aadhaar Card of minor + Aadhaar of parent/guardian |
| Address Proof | Parent’s Aadhaar Card, utility bill, or bank statement |
| Date of Birth Proof | Birth certificate, passport, or hospital discharge summary |
| Photo | Passport-sized photograph of the child |
How to Apply for a PAN Card for Children: Online Process
Applying online is the most convenient and fastest method.
Step 1 – Visit the NSDL or UTIITSL Portal
Head over to https://www.tin-nsdl.com or https://www.utiitsl.com.
Step 2 – Choose the Appropriate PAN Application Form
Select Form 49A for Indian citizens. Choose “Minor” as the category.
Step 3 – Fill in the Child’s Details
Carefully input your child’s full name, date of birth, Aadhaar number, and address. Also, provide your own details as the representative assessee.
Step 4 – Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of:
- Minor’s birth certificate
- Aadhaar Card of minor and parent
- Recent passport-size photograph
Step 5 – Pay the Application Fee
The fee is ₹107 for Indian communication address and ₹1,017 for foreign communication address. You can pay via net banking, debit/credit card, or UPI.
Step 6 – Submit the Application
After payment, you’ll receive an acknowledgment number to track the application.
How to Apply for a PAN Card for Children: Offline Process
Prefer the paper route? Here’s how:
Step 1 – Download the Form 49A
Download from the NSDL or UTIITSL website or collect from a nearby PAN center.
Step 2 – Fill the Application Form
Manually enter all relevant information and paste the child’s photo.
Step 3 – Attach Required Documents
Enclose photocopies of identity, address, and date of birth proofs.
Step 4 – Submit at Nearest PAN Center
Submit at the PAN service center or mail it to the NSDL office.
PAN Card Format for Minors
The PAN card for minors will:
- Not carry the child’s signature
- Mention the representative assessee (usually parent/guardian)
- Have the same layout as adult PAN cards
How PAN Card for Children is Different from Adults?
| Feature | Minor PAN Card | Adult PAN Card |
|---|---|---|
| Signature | Not required | Mandatory |
| Representative | Parent/Guardian signs | Applicant signs |
| Update After 18 | Mandatory | Not needed |
Application Fees for PAN Card for Children
| Mode | Indian Address | Foreign Address |
|---|---|---|
| Online | ₹107 | ₹1,017 |
| Offline | ₹110 | ₹1,020 |
Payment modes accepted: UPI, Credit/Debit card, Net Banking, Demand Draft (offline).
How Long Does It Take to Get a PAN Card for a Minor?
Generally, you can expect the PAN card to arrive:
- Within 15 working days (physical copy)
- Within 5–7 days (e-PAN via email)
How to Check PAN Card Status?
Use your acknowledgment number on:
Dos and Don’ts While Applying for a Child’s PAN
Dos
- Use the latest photo of your child
- Double-check all details before submission
- Use the same name format across documents
Don’ts
- Do not sign on behalf of the child unless required
- Don’t use expired or blurred documents
- Don’t leave mandatory fields blank
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect Aadhaar number
- Mismatched parent details
- Missing DOB proof
- Uploading poor-quality images
When Should You Update the PAN Card After the Child Turns 18?
Once your child turns 18:
- Apply for PAN correction or update
- Provide signature specimen and new photo
- Update Aadhaar linkage if necessary
Conclusion
Getting a PAN Card for children isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a smart move for future-proofing their financial life. Whether you’re planning early investments, need documentation for education, or simply want an official ID, a PAN card is a vital tool. With both online and offline options, applying is easier than ever. So don’t wait—apply for a PAN Card for children today and secure a smoother tomorrow for your child.
FAQs
Q1. Can I apply for a PAN Card for my newborn baby?
Yes, there is no minimum age limit. You just need the birth certificate and parent’s identity proof.
Q2. Do I need to link Aadhaar for my child’s PAN Card?
Yes, Aadhaar is now mandatory even for minors while applying for PAN.
Q3. How long is the PAN Card valid for a child?
It’s valid for a lifetime. However, you must update details after the child turns 18.
Q4. Can I apply for a PAN Card offline in my city?
Yes, visit the nearest NSDL or UTI PAN center with required documents.
Q5. What if I make a mistake in the PAN application?
You can correct it using the “PAN correction form” available on the official sites.
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