PAN 2.0: What's New and How to Apply?

PAN 2.0: If you’ve ever been frustrated by delays, scattered services, or outdated systems when dealing with your PAN card, relief is on the way. The Income

Tax Department has rolled out the ambitious PAN 2.0 Project, awarded to LTIMindtree Limited, promising faster, safer, and more convenient taxpayer services. Set to go live within the next 18 months, PAN 2.0 isn’t just an upgrade — it’s a complete digital transformation of how PAN and TAN services are delivered in India.

What is PAN 2.0?

PAN 2.0 is a next-generation, fully digital platform that will integrate all PAN and TAN-related services in one place. From issuing new cards to updating details, linking Aadhaar, reissuing lost cards, and verifying PAN information, everything will be available under a single, user-friendly interface.

Key Features of PAN 2.0

• QR code on every PAN card for instant, secure verification
  
• Unified digital platform combining all PAN-related services
  
• Advanced cybersecurity to safeguard taxpayer data
  
• Fully paperless operations to cut costs and reduce environmental impact
  
• Secure PAN data vault for safe storage and controlled access
  
• Mandatory Aadhaar-PAN linkage for stronger verification
  
• Real-time validation to minimise errors
  
• Advanced analytics to detect and prevent fraud
  

PAN 2.0: Benefits for Taxpayers

• Enhanced security with encrypted QR code data
  
• Faster verification by instant scanning
  
• Automatic updates to correct outdated or inconsistent details
  
• Fraud prevention through advanced encryption
  
• Regulatory compliance with the latest government protocols
  
• Fully digital process for applying, updating, or reissuing cards
  

Difference Between PAN and PAN 2.0

• PAN 2.0 includes a secure QR code; traditional PAN does not
  
• PAN 2.0 allows instant verification; traditional PAN requires manual checks
  
• PAN 2.0 offers stronger encryption and better security features
  
• PAN 2.0 is available in both physical and digital (e-PAN) formats
  
• e-PAN in PAN 2.0 can be delivered within minutes; traditional PAN takes days or weeks
  

How to Apply for PAN 2.0

For Existing Cardholders:

• No need to reapply; simply request the QR-enabled version via NSDL or UTIITSL
  

For New Applicants:

• Provide proof of identity (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence)
  
• Provide proof of address (Utility bill, Bank statement, Rent agreement, Aadhaar)
  
• Provide proof of date of birth (Birth certificate, School leaving certificate, Passport)
  
  

Steps via NSDL

1. Visit the NSDL PAN request page
   
2. Enter PAN, Aadhaar, and Date of Birth
   
3. Validate via OTP (email/SMS)
   
4. Agree to terms and make payment (₹8.26 if not issued in last 30 days)
   
5. Receive e-PAN by email within minutes
   

Steps via UTIITSL

1. Visit the UTIITSL PAN request page
   
2. Enter PAN, Date of Birth, and captcha
   
3. Confirm registered email ID
   
4. Request e-PAN (free if issued in last 30 days)
   
5. Get e-PAN PDF in your inbox
   

Why It Matters

PAN 2.0 aims to put an end to fragmented, time-consuming processes and replace them with a single, secure, and swift digital experience. Once live, it will make tax-related services not just more efficient but also safer, helping curb fraud and improve trust in India’s financial system.