What is the difference between instant PAN card and original PAN card?

Normal vs. Instant PAN Card

A PAN card is a crucial identification document issued by the Income Tax Department of India. There are two types of PAN cards available: Normal PAN Card and Instant PAN Card.

Normal PAN Card

A normal PAN card is a physical card issued by the Income Tax Department. It is sent to the applicant's registered address after the application process is completed. This card serves as a valid proof of PAN and can be used for all financial transactions and legal purposes.

Instant PAN Card

An instant PAN card, on the other hand, is an electronic PAN card issued by the Income Tax Department. It is generated and sent to the applicant electronically, usually via email. Despite being digital, it is equally valid as proof of PAN and can be used for the same purposes as a normal PAN card.

Both normal and instant PAN cards are valid proofs of PAN and can be used interchangeably for financial and legal transactions. The choice between the two usually depends on the applicant’s preference for a physical or electronic card.