Change in PAN Card application process : Original Identity proof, address proof and BIRTH CERTIFICATE REQUIRED henceforth

Below is the Press Release for change in procedure for PAN Application. However, I recently visited NSDL i.e. PAN Facilitation Centre on 25.01.2014, where no such guidelines or instructions are yet received to them. On asking about PAN Card application for NRIs, or non-residents, still the same answer. In my opinion, originals will just not be possible to be shown in Indian PAN Facilitation Centres, however again an attestation by Indian Embassy/High Commission / Consulate should suffice. I have concerns for Indian residents who have shifted their base to foreign countries and who might not have their Birth Certificates at all, or they have misplaced or kept the originals here in India. Only time will tell whether Tax Department makes it easy or difficult for the taxpayers.

 

Government of India

Ministry of Finance

Department of Revenue

Central Board of Direct Taxes

Dated 24th January, 2013

Press Release

The procedure for PAN allotment process will undergo a change w.e.f. 03.02.2014. From this date onwards, every PAN applicant has to submit self-attested copies of Proof of Identity (POI), Proof of Address (POA) and Date of Birth (DOB) documents and also produce original documents of such POI/POA/DOB documents, for verification at the counter of PAN Facilitation Centres. 

The copies of Proof of Identity (POI), Proof of Address (POA) and Date of Birth (DOB) documents attached with PAN application form, will be verified vis a vis their original documents at the time of submission of PAN application at PAN Facilitation Centre. Original documents shall not be retained by the PAN Facilitation Centres and will be returned back to the applicant after verification.
 

(Rekha Shukla)
Commissioner of Income Tax (M&TP)
Official Spokesperson, CBDT