How to Apply for a PAN Card Online as a Student: The Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

You have decided to start investing in the stock market. You have decided to open a zero-balance bank account. You have even secured a paid internship.

But there is one small plastic card standing in your way: The PAN Card (Permanent Account Number).

Many students delay getting a PAN card because they think it involves standing in long queues at government offices or paying "agents" ₹500 extra to get the job done.

Good news: In 2026, you can apply for a PAN card from your hostel room in less than 10 minutes. You don't need to send physical documents anywhere if your Aadhaar is linked to your mobile number.

Whether you are 18+ or a Minor (under 18), this guide will walk you through the exact process to get your financial identity ready.

Why Do Students Even Need a PAN Card?

You might think, "I don't pay taxes, why do I need a PAN?" In India, a PAN card is not just for taxpayers. It is mandatory for:

1. Opening a Bank Account: Most banks won't open a full-service account without it.

2. Investing: You cannot open a Demat account (Zerodha/Groww) or buy Mutual Funds without a PAN.

3. Internships: If your stipend is above a certain limit, companies need your PAN to deduct TDS (Tax Deducted at Source).

4. Buying a Vehicle: If you plan to buy a bike worth more than ₹50,000, PAN is required.

Documents Required (Keep These Ready)

Before you open the website, keep soft copies (scanned JPEGs) of these ready:

1. Aadhaar Card: This serves as Proof of Identity, Address, and Date of Birth.

2. Passport Size Photo: A clear, recent photo (white background preferred).

3. Signature: Sign on a white paper with a black pen and scan it.

Method 1: The "Instant e-PAN" (Free & Fastest)

If you need a PAN number right now (urgently) and don't care about the physical plastic card immediately, use the Income Tax Portal.

• Cost: ₹0 (Free).

• Time: 10 Minutes.

• Condition: Your mobile number MUST be linked to Aadhaar.

Steps:

1. Go to the Income Tax e-Filing Portal (incometax.gov.in).

2. Click on "Instant E-PAN" in the 'Quick Links' section.

3. Click "Get New e-PAN".

4. Enter your Aadhaar Number and verify with the OTP sent to your mobile.

5. Validate your details (Name, DOB) fetched from Aadhaar.

6. Done! You will get a PDF of your PAN card within minutes. It is legally valid.

Method 2: Physical PAN Card via NSDL (Recommended)

If you want the actual plastic card delivered to your home (which looks professional and is good for ID proof), follow this method.

• Cost: Approx ₹107 (for Indian address).

• Time: 15-20 Days for delivery.

Step-by-Step Process:

Step 1: Visit the NSDL Website Go to the official NSDL Online PAN Application page.

Step 2: Fill the Basic Details

• Application Type: Select "New PAN - Indian Citizen (Form 49A)".

• Category: Select "Individual" (Since you are a student).

• Fill in your Name, DOB, Email, and Mobile Number.

• Submit to get a "Token Number" (Save this number; it helps if the page crashes).

Step 3: Choose How to Submit Documents You will see three options. Select:

• "Submit digitally through e-KYC & e-Sign (Paperless)"

• Why? This uses your Aadhaar OTP. You don't need to upload photos or send papers by post. Your photo from Aadhaar will be used on the PAN card.

• Note: If you want a different photo on your PAN card than your Aadhaar, choose the second option ("Submit scanned images through e-Sign").

Step 4: Personal Details

• Enter your Aadhaar Number.

• Parent's Name: You usually only need to enter your Father's name. (Mother's name is optional).

Step 5: Income & Contact Details

• Source of Income: Since you are a student, select "No Income" or "Income from Other Sources." Do NOT select "Salary" or "Business."

• Address: If you chose e-KYC, it will auto-fill from Aadhaar.

Step 6: AO Code (The Confusing Part) The form asks for an "AO Code" (Assessing Officer). Don't panic.

• Select "Indian Citizen".

• Select your State and City.

• The website will show a list of codes below. Just select the one that looks relevant to your area/ward. It doesn't have to be 100% perfect for students.

Step 7: Payment & Submission

• Pay the fee of ₹106.90 using UPI, Debit Card, or Net Banking.

• Once paid, you will be asked for an Aadhaar OTP again to e-Sign the application.

• That’s it! You will get an Acknowledgement Number to track your card.

Special Case: Minor PAN Card (Under 18)

If you are 17 years old and want to start investing, you can get a PAN card, but the process is slightly different.

• You cannot apply yourself. Your parent/guardian must apply on your behalf.

• Photo: A Minor PAN card does not have the student's photo. It has the word "Minor" on it.

• Signature: The card will have the Parent's signature, not the student's.

• Conversion: Once you turn 18, you must apply for a "Correction" to update your photo and signature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Initials in Name: Don't write "S. Kumar". Write the full name "Suresh Kumar" exactly as it is on Aadhaar. Mismatches lead to rejection.

2. Wrong Address: The card will come to the address on your Aadhaar. If you are in a hostel, make sure someone is at your permanent home to receive it.

3. Losing the Acknowledgement: Take a screenshot of the final screen. You will need it to track where your card is.

Conclusion

Getting a PAN card is your graduation into the world of adult finance. It is the key that unlocks bank accounts, demat accounts, and tax returns.

Don't wait until you get a job offer to apply. Do it this weekend.

Once your PAN card arrives (or you get the e-PAN PDF), you are ready to start your financial journey.

• Step 1: Open a Bank Account. Read: [Top 5 Zero-Balance Savings Accounts for Students].

• Step 2: Open a Demat Account. Read: [The Ultimate Guide to Stock Market Investing].

• Step 3: Start Earning. Read: [7 Legit Ways Students Can Earn ₹500 Daily].