Minor PAN Card: Why Your Child May Need One & How to Apply – Complete Process Explained

📌 Why is a PAN Card Important for Children?

While the Aadhaar card is commonly used for school admissions and general identity verification, when it comes to financial transactions or investments, the PAN (Permanent Account Number) card becomes essential—even for children.

Many assume PAN cards are only issued after turning 18, but minors can also have a PAN card. It's particularly required when:

• Opening a bank account in the child's name

• Making investments or mutual fund SIPs on behalf of the child

• Appointing the child as a nominee in financial instruments

• Handling any income tax matters where the minor earns income (e.g., through inheritance or investments)

🧒 What Is a Minor PAN Card?

A Minor PAN Card is issued for children below 18 years of age. The key differences compared to a regular PAN card are:

• It does not have a photo or signature of the minor

• The card is linked to the parent’s or guardian’s address and details

• It must be updated to an adult PAN card once the child turns 18

📝 Documents Required to Apply

To apply for a minor PAN card, you will need:

Birth Certificate of the child (proof of age)

Identity proof of the parent or legal guardian (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)

Address proof of the parent or guardian

Passport-size photo of the parent/guardian

🛠️ How to Apply – Two Easy Methods 1. Online Application (via NSDL or UTIITSL)

• Visit the or UTIITSL website

• Select “Apply for New PAN” and choose the appropriate category (Individual - Minor)

• Fill in the child’s and guardian’s details

• Upload the required documents and photo

• Pay the application fee (~₹107 for Indian addresses)

• Submit the form and note the acknowledgment number

• PAN card will be delivered to your registered address within a few weeks

2. Offline Application

• Visit a nearby PAN service center (PSA)

• Fill out Form 49A manually

• Attach photocopies of the required documents

• Submit the form with the fee

• The PAN card will be sent by post once processed

✅ Benefits of a Minor PAN Card

• Helps in early financial planning and investments

• Needed for opening child-specific bank accounts or investment portfolios

• Valid proof of identity and birth

• Makes the child eligible for being a nominee or beneficiary in family financial products

📌 Final Note

If you are planning for your child’s financial future, getting a Minor PAN Card is a smart step. The process is simple, and it opens doors to a range of financial tools tailored for your child’s long-term security and planning.