PAN Card for Minors: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Parents and Guardians
QUICK SUMMARY: A PAN card for minors is available to children of any age, including newborns. Parents or guardians apply through NSDL (Protean) or UTIITSL using Form 49A. The card has no photo or signature. The fee is Rs. 107 for Indian addresses. The process takes 15 to 20 working days. Once the child turns 18, the card must be updated to a major PAN card.
Table of Contents
What Is a PAN Card for Minors?
A PAN card for minors is an official Permanent Account Number issued to children below 18 years of age in India. Parents or guardians apply for it on behalf of the child.
The Income Tax Department issues the card, and it carries the child’s name and date of birth — but no photograph and no signature, since minors cannot legally sign documents.
You may also hear this called a child PAN card, minor PAN card, or PAN card under 18. These all refer to the same document, issued under the same Form 49A process.
The card looks slightly different from a regular adult PAN card, and the parent or guardian is listed as the Representative Assessee in the application.
Important: There is no minimum age limit for a PAN card for minors. Even a newborn child is eligible. The Income Tax Department allows parents to apply for a PAN card for their child at any age.
Read: The complete guide to Pan card in India – Apply, Update, and Download
Why Does a Child Need a PAN Card?
Many parents wonder whether a PAN card for minors is really necessary. Here are the situations where you will need one for your child:
- When you want to make your child a nominee on investments, shares, insurance policies, or property
- When you invest in a mutual fund or fixed deposit in your child’s name
- When your child earns any income — through talent contracts, competitions, rental income, or inherited assets
- When gifts above Rs. 50,000 are received in the child’s name in a financial year
- When you open a bank account in your child’s name and the bank asks for PAN
- When you register your child as a nominee on any financial product that requires PAN for KYC
Banks and financial institutions in India now commonly ask for PAN even for minors when opening accounts or starting fixed deposits. Getting the card early avoids delays later.
The Current India tip: Even if your child has no income right now, apply early. A PAN card for minors is useful the moment you start investing in your child’s name, and the process is simple and affordable.
Minor PAN Card vs Major PAN Card: Key Differences
Here is a quick comparison of a minor PAN card against a regular adult PAN card:
| Feature | Minor PAN Card (Below 18) | Major PAN Card (18 and Above) |
| Minimum age | No minimum age (even newborns) | 18 years and above |
| Photograph on card | No | Yes |
| Signature on card | No | Yes |
| Who applies? | Parent or guardian (Representative Assessee) | The individual themselves |
| Form used | Form 49A (Indian citizens), Form 49AA (NRIs) | Form 49A or Form 49AA |
| Update required at 18? | Yes — must be updated to Major PAN | Not applicable |
| Fee (Indian address) | Rs. 107 (incl. GST) | Rs. 107 (incl. GST) |
| Photo required with application? | Yes — passport-size photo of the child | Yes — passport-size photo |
| Signature on form | Parent or guardian signs | Applicant signs |
Eligibility for a Minor PAN Card Application
The rules for eligibility are simple and clear:
- The child must be a citizen of India and below 18 years of age
- There is no minimum age restriction — newborn babies are eligible
- The parent or guardian must be an Indian citizen with a valid PAN card
- NRI parents with a minor child can apply using Form 49AA instead of Form 49A
- The parent or guardian becomes the Representative Assessee on the application form
Foreign nationals with a minor child in India can apply using Form 49AA. The process and documents differ slightly, but the official portals support both application types.
PAN Card for Minors: Documents Required for Application
You need two sets of documents: one for the child and one for the parent or guardian.
Documents for the Minor (Child)
| Document Type | Accepted Documents |
| Proof of Date of Birth | Birth certificate issued by municipal authority, hospital, or registrar |
| Proof of Date of Birth (alternative) | Aadhaar card of the minor (if available) |
| Proof of Date of Birth (alternative) | Passport of the minor |
| Proof of Date of Birth (alternative) | School leaving certificate or bonafide certificate from school |
| Proof of Date of Birth (alternative) | Certificate from village panchayat (for rural areas) |
| Photograph | Two recent passport-size photographs (white background, ICAO standard) |
Documents for the Parent or Guardian
| Document Type | Accepted Documents |
| Proof of Identity (POI) | Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License |
| Proof of Address (POA) | Aadhaar card, Passport, Utility bill (electricity, water, telephone — last 3 months) |
| Proof of Address (POA) alternative | Bank account statement, Rent agreement, Domicile certificate |
| PAN Card copy | Photocopy of parent’s or guardian’s PAN card (mandatory) |
| Signature | Parent or guardian must sign the application form as Representative Assessee |
Key rule: All documents must be self-attested by the parent or guardian. Write ‘Self Attested’ and sign each photocopy before submitting. Documents must be legible and the name spelling must match exactly across all documents.
Read: Documents Required for PAN Card Application – Checklist
PAN Card for Minors: Fee for Application
The fee structure for a PAN card for minors is the same as for adult applicants. Here is the complete breakdown:
| Application Type | Fee (Indian Address) | Fee (Foreign Address / NRI) |
| Physical PAN card delivered to Indian address | Rs. 107 (incl. GST) | Not applicable |
| Physical PAN card delivered to foreign address (NRI) | Not applicable | Rs. 989 (incl. GST) |
| e-PAN only (digital delivery via email) | Rs. 72 (incl. GST) | Rs. 72 (incl. GST) |
Payment methods accepted: debit card, credit card, UPI, net banking, and demand draft. Personal cheques are not accepted. For the demand draft option, make the draft payable to NSDL PAN or UTIITSL as applicable.
Note: The fee amounts above are as published by the Income Tax Department for 2025. Always verify the current fee on the official NSDL or UTIITSL portal before applying, as amounts may change.
Which Platforms Offer PAN Card Application Services for Minors?
The Government of India authorizes two official portals for PAN card applications:
| Platform | Website | Portal Name | Supported Application Types |
| NSDL (Protean eGov Technologies) | onlineservices.proteantech.in | Protean PAN Online Services | New PAN, Changes/Corrections, Reprint |
| UTIITSL | pan.utiitsl.com | UTIITSL PAN Online Services | New PAN, Changes/Corrections, Reprint, e-PAN |
| Income Tax e-Filing Portal | incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in | Instant e-PAN (Aadhaar-based) | Instant e-PAN for those with Aadhaar only |
Both NSDL and UTIITSL accept online applications for minor PAN cards. The process is nearly identical on both portals. UTIITSL also offers walk-in centers across India where you can submit documents in person.
Third-party websites like BankBazaar, ClearTax, and MyOnlineCA also assist with PAN applications for a small service charge. However, these sites redirect you to the official NSDL or UTIITSL portals for the actual application and payment.
Caution: Always apply through the official government-authorized portals: NSDL (Protean) or UTIITSL. Avoid unknown third-party sites that ask you to pay extra fees without redirecting to official portals.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a PAN Card for Minors Online
You can complete the online application for a minor PAN card in about 30 minutes if you have all your documents ready. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to the Official Portal
Visit the NSDL Protean portal at onlineservices.proteantech.in or the UTIITSL portal at pan.utiitsl.com. Both portals support new PAN card applications for minors.
Step 2: Select the Correct Application Type
Click on “Apply for New PAN” or “New PAN — Indian Citizen (Form 49A)”. Under the category field, select “Individual”. Do not select “Minor” separately — minors are covered under the Individual category.
Step 3: Fill in the Minor’s Details
Enter the child’s full name exactly as it appears on the birth certificate. Enter the date of birth, gender, and the parent’s mobile number and email address. Then click Submit to proceed to the next section.
Step 4: Fill in the Parent or Guardian’s Details
Scroll to the “Representative Assessee” section. Enter the parent’s or guardian’s full name, PAN number, address, and contact details. The parent must sign the form in this section as the Representative Assessee.
Step 5: Choose Your Document Submission Mode
You have two options:
- Online mode: Upload digital copies of all required documents directly on the portal. This is faster.
- Physical mode: Print the acknowledgement form after submitting online, attach your documents, and post the packet to the NSDL address in Pune or the UTIITSL address.
Step 6: Upload the Minor’s Photograph
Upload a recent passport-size photograph of the child. The photo must have a white background and must clearly show the child’s face. The photo must be in JPG format and within the file size limit shown on the portal.
Step 7: Upload the Required Documents
Upload self-attested scans or clear photographs of all required documents: the child’s birth certificate or Aadhaar, and the parent’s Aadhaar or other POI and POA documents. Make sure each file is clear and fully legible.
Step 8: Pay the Fee
Pay Rs. 107 (for Indian address) using your debit card, credit card, UPI, or net banking. For the demand draft option, prepare the draft in advance payable to NSDL PAN or UTIITSL before starting the application. Select the e-PAN option if you only need the digital version.
Step 9: Note Your Acknowledgement Number
After you submit and pay, the portal generates a 15-digit acknowledgement number. Save this number. You will use it to track the status of your application on the NSDL or UTIITSL tracking portal.
Step 10: Track and Receive Your PAN Card
The PAN card typically arrives at your registered address within 15 to 20 working days. If you chose the e-PAN option, you receive the PDF version by email within 24 to 48 hours after successful processing.
The Current India tip: Keep a photocopy of every document you upload or mail. If the application gets rejected for any reason, you will need to resubmit, and having copies ready saves time.
How to Apply for a Minor PAN Card Offline
If you prefer to submit your application in person, follow these steps:
- Download Form 49A from the NSDL website or collect a physical copy from any NSDL or UTIITSL PAN center near you.
- Fill in all sections of Form 49A carefully. Use block letters. Enter the minor’s details in the applicant section and the parent’s details in the Representative Assessee section.
- Attach two recent passport-size photographs of the child to the form. Do not staple them — use glue instead.
- Attach self-attested photocopies of all required documents (the child’s birth certificate and the parent’s POI, POA, and PAN card copy).
- Pay the fee in cash or by demand draft at the PAN center. The fee is Rs. 107 for Indian addresses.
- Submit the form and all documents at the nearest PAN center. The staff will give you an acknowledgement number.
- Use the acknowledgement number to track your application status online on the NSDL or UTIITSL portal.
Find your nearest PAN center by visiting the UTIITSL website at pan.utiitsl.com and clicking on the “Locate PAN Center” option. NSDL also lists authorized PAN centers on its portal.
Can You Use a Mobile App to Apply for a Minor PAN Card?
As of 2025, the Income Tax Department does not offer a dedicated mobile app for PAN card applications. However, you can access the NSDL and UTIITSL portals through your smartphone’s browser and complete the entire application on your mobile device.
The Income Tax Department’s official app, AIS for Taxpayer, allows you to view your AIS and TIS data but does not support new PAN applications.
The Aadhaar-based Instant e-PAN facility on the Income Tax e-Filing portal (incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in) works on mobile browsers, but it only applies to individuals with an Aadhaar card. Since most minors may not have Aadhaar, the standard Form 49A process on NSDL or UTIITSL remains the primary route.
- Use NSDL portal on mobile browser: Yes, supported
- Use UTIITSL portal on mobile browser: Yes, supported
- Dedicated government mobile app for new PAN: Not available as of March 2025
- Third-party apps (Bajaj Finserv, Paytm, DigiLocker): These apps link to official portals and can simplify document storage, but the actual PAN application happens on the official government portal
How to Update a Minor PAN Card to a Major PAN Card After Age 18
Once your child turns 18, the minor PAN card must be updated. You do not apply for a new PAN — you submit a correction or change request on the existing PAN number to add the photo, signature, and updated personal details.
Steps to Convert a Minor PAN Card to a Major PAN Card
- Go to the NSDL or UTIITSL portal and select “Changes or Corrections in Existing PAN Data / Reprint of PAN Card” as the application type.
- Select the category as “Individual”.
- Enter the minor’s existing PAN number along with the name and date of birth.
- Check the “Photo Mismatch” and “Signature Mismatch” boxes to trigger the photo and signature update.
- Upload a fresh passport-size photograph and the new signature of the now-adult applicant.
- Upload updated identity and address proof in the adult’s own name.
- Pay the correction fee (Rs. 107 for Indian address) and submit the application.
- The updated major PAN card arrives within 15 to 20 working days.
This update is mandatory. Once the card is updated, the child can use it independently for all tax, banking, and financial purposes as an adult.
PAN Card for Minors: Quick Reference Data
This data table summarizes everything you need at a glance. Other websites and educators frequently reference these numbers.
| Parameter | Details |
| Minimum age for application | No minimum — newborns are eligible |
| Maximum age for minor PAN | Below 18 years (under the age of 18) |
| Form to use (Indian citizens) | Form 49A |
| Form to use (NRIs and foreign nationals) | Form 49AA |
| Official portals | NSDL (Protean): onlineservices.proteantech.in | UTIITSL: pan.utiitsl.com |
| Fee — Indian address (physical PAN) | Rs. 107 (including GST) |
| Fee — Foreign address (NRI) | Rs. 989 (including GST) |
| Fee — e-PAN only (digital delivery) | Rs. 72 (including GST) |
| Photograph on minor PAN card | Not included on the card |
| Signature on minor PAN card | Not included on the card |
| Representative Assessee | Parent or legal guardian |
| Processing time | 15 to 20 working days (physical) | 24 to 48 hours (e-PAN) |
| Tracking method | 15-digit acknowledgement number on NSDL or UTIITSL portal |
| PAN-Aadhaar linking for minors | Mandatory as per CBDT notification — link after the minor gets Aadhaar |
| Update required at age 18 | Yes — apply for changes/correction to convert to major PAN card |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Minor PAN Card
| Mistake | How to Avoid It |
| Name spelling mismatch between documents | Use the exact name from the birth certificate consistently across all fields |
| Using expired or unclear documents | Submit only valid, clearly legible self-attested copies |
| Forgetting to sign as Representative Assessee | The parent or guardian must sign the form — not the child |
| Selecting wrong form type (49AA instead of 49A) | Indian citizens use Form 49A; NRIs use Form 49AA |
| Sending documents without self-attestation | Write ‘Self Attested’ and sign every photocopy before sending |
| Paying wrong fee amount | Verify the current fee on the official portal before payment |
| Not saving the acknowledgement number | The 15-digit number is your only way to track the application — save it immediately |
| Applying through unauthorized third-party websites | Always start from the official NSDL or UTIITSL portal directly |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to apply for a PAN card for minors online?
To apply for a PAN card for minors online, go to the NSDL Protean portal at onlineservices.proteantech.in or the UTIITSL portal at pan.utiitsl.com. Select ‘New PAN — Indian Citizen (Form 49A)’ and choose the Individual category. Fill in the minor’s details and the parent’s details in the Representative Assessee section. Upload the minor’s photograph and the required documents — birth certificate and parent’s ID and address proof. Pay Rs. 107 using your debit card, credit card, UPI, or net banking. After payment, you receive a 15-digit acknowledgement number to track your application. The physical PAN card arrives in 15 to 20 working days.
What is the eligibility for a minor PAN card application?
Any child below 18 years of age and an Indian citizen is eligible for a minor PAN card. There is no minimum age limit — even a newborn can get one. The parent or legal guardian must apply on behalf of the child as the Representative Assessee. The parent must hold a valid PAN card of their own. NRI parents with a minor child can apply using Form 49AA on the same portals.
Which platforms offer PAN card application services for minors?
The two official government-authorized platforms for a PAN card for minors are NSDL Protean (onlineservices.proteantech.in) and UTIITSL (pan.utiitsl.com). Both support online applications using Form 49A. The Income Tax e-Filing portal offers an Instant e-PAN service but this works only with Aadhaar.
Third-party platforms like BankBazaar, ClearTax, and MyOnlineCA offer assisted application services for a small additional fee, but they all redirect to the official NSDL or UTIITSL portals for the actual application and payment.
What documents are required for a minor PAN card application?
For the minor, you need proof of date of birth — a birth certificate from the municipal authority or hospital, or alternatively the child’s Aadhaar card, passport, or school leaving certificate. You also need two recent passport-size photographs of the child. For the parent or guardian, you need a copy of their Aadhaar card or another valid proof of identity, proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, or Aadhaar), and a copy of their own PAN card. All document copies must be self-attested by the parent or guardian before submission.
What documents are required to get a PAN card for a minor?
To get a PAN card for a minor, you need three types of documents. First, proof of the child’s date of birth: the birth certificate is the most commonly accepted document, along with Aadhaar card, passport, or school certificate as alternatives. Second, proof of identity and address of the parent or guardian: Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, or utility bills. Third, a photocopy of the parent’s or guardian’s own PAN card, which is mandatory. You also need two passport-size photographs of the child. All photocopies must be self-attested by the parent before you attach them to the application form.
What is the process to apply for a PAN card under 18?
The process to apply for a PAN card under 18 works as follows: First, go to the NSDL or UTIITSL portal and select Form 49A for Indian citizens. Fill in the child’s name, date of birth, and gender. Then fill in the parent’s details in the Representative Assessee section. Choose your document submission mode — online (upload scans) or physical (post documents). Upload the child’s photograph and all required documents. Pay the fee of Rs. 107 online. Note the 15-digit acknowledgement number. The PAN card reaches your address in 15 to 20 working days. If you only need the digital version, select the e-PAN option and receive it by email within 24 to 48 hours.
What is the step-by-step guide to fill a PAN card application form for minors?
Here is how to fill Form 49A for a minor PAN card. Step 1: Select application type as ‘New PAN — Indian Citizen (Form 49A)’ and category as ‘Individual’. Step 2: Enter the minor’s full name exactly as on the birth certificate. Step 3: Enter the date of birth, gender, and the parent’s email and mobile number. Step 4: Under the Representative Assessee section, enter the parent’s full name, relationship (father or mother or guardian), and their PAN number and address. Step 5: The parent signs the form in the signature box — the child does not sign. Step 6: Upload the child’s photograph and required documents. Step 7: Choose the document submission mode (online or physical). Step 8: Pay the fee and submit. Step 9: Save your 15-digit acknowledgement number.
What is the online application process for a minor PAN card?
The online application process for a minor PAN card starts on the NSDL or UTIITSL portal. You select Form 49A, fill in the minor’s and parent’s details, upload the child’s photograph and all supporting documents, and pay the fee of Rs. 107 online using a card or UPI. After submission, you get a 15-digit acknowledgement number instantly. If you choose the online document submission mode, no physical paperwork is needed — the process is fully digital. If you select physical mode, you must post the documents to the NSDL address in Pune or your nearest UTIITSL center within 15 days of the online submission.
Can I use a mobile app to apply for a minor PAN card?
As of March 2025, there is no dedicated government mobile app for PAN card applications for minors. However, you can access both the NSDL Protean portal and the UTIITSL portal through your smartphone’s web browser and complete the full application on mobile. The Income Tax Department’s official AIS for Taxpayer app does not support new PAN applications. Some third-party apps like Bajaj Finserv and DigiLocker assist with document management, but the actual application must happen on the official government portals. The Instant e-PAN facility on the Income Tax e-Filing portal works on mobile but requires Aadhaar, which many minors may not yet have.
What is the fee for a minor PAN card application?
The fee for a minor PAN card application in 2025 is Rs. 107 (including GST) for a physical PAN card delivered to an Indian address. If the PAN card needs to be delivered to a foreign address — for NRI applicants — the fee is Rs. 989. If you only need the e-PAN (digital version delivered by email), the fee is Rs. 72. Payment is accepted through debit card, credit card, UPI, net banking, and demand draft. There are no separate or additional government charges for minor applicants compared to adult applicants. Always verify the current fee on the official NSDL or UTIITSL portal before submitting, as the Income Tax Department may revise fees.
Editor’s note: This article was researched and written by the editorial team at The Current India (thecurrentindia.com), a trusted resource for NRI services, Indian tax guidance, and document-related guides for Indians in India and abroad. Fees and procedures may change. Always verify current requirements on the official NSDL or UTIITSL portal before applying
Sources used in this guide:
- Income Tax Department of India — incometaxindia.gov.in
- NSDL Protean eGov Technologies — onlineservices.proteantech.in
- UTIITSL — utiitsl.com
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