How to Change Photo in PAN Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

Have you ever seen your PAN Card and wished you could have a better photo? Possibly it is out of focus, old, or not as attractive as you would prefer. Be it because of personal reasons, a change of appearance over the years or just a better representation, you may find yourself in need of updating your PAN card photo more often than you would imagine. In 2025, updating your PAN card photo is easier than ever, as there are online as well as offline processes.

This blog will guide you through all that you should know about the process of changing your photo in a PAN card, the documents needed, and also points to consider before updating your photo. 

In case you are short of time, or just want to do things right, read on to find out how you can get your PAN card photo updated without any hassles.

Why Update Your PAN Card Photo?

Your PAN Card not only serves as an identification card for taxation purposes, but it is also one of the important documents to carry out any financial transactions in India. 

It is utilized everywhere, from opening a bank account, in an investment, in a loan application, and even in company registration. The old or blurry-looking picture may attract embarrassing situations at the time of physical document verification. 

Have you ever been asked to produce another identity card since your PAN Card photo does not match your looks? 

To avoid such awkward situations, kindly initiate the PAN Card photo change process as explained in this blog. 

Documents Required to Change PAN Card Photo

In order to be able to change the photo on your PAN card, you will be required to provide some documents to prove your identity and address. These can be:

Proof of Identity: Aadhar card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driver’s License.

Proof of Address: Utility bills (electricity, water), bank statements, or rental agreements.

Passport-sized Photographs (for offline application): Usually, two recent passport-sized photographs in colour.

PAN Card: The old PAN card that you wish to update.

Double-check to ensure that all documentation is legible, valid and in line with the specifications that the concerned authorities have outlined.

How to Change a Photo in a PAN Card 

PAN Card photo change may appear to be a huge task, but it is not that difficult, especially when the process is done online. Here is how the two approaches will work.

1. PAN Card Photo Change Online

To change a photo in a PAN Card, the process is quite simple. The following is what you must do:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the Protean (NSDL) website, click on the ‘Services’ > ‘PAN’ > ‘Apply Now’ > Click on ‘Changes or Correction in Existing PAN Data’ under the ‘Application Type’. Select ‘Individual’ in the category section.  

Step 2: Fill in the Necessary Details

You will need to provide your personal details, including your PAN number, date of birth, and contact information. You also have to upload the required documents, such as proof of identity and proof of address. Once all the details are updated carefully, submit the form. 

Step 3: Select the mode of Document Submission 

Based on your convenience, you can select the mode of submission of documents from the following options:

1. Submit scanned images through e-sign

2. Forward application documents physically

Step 4: Upload a Recent Photograph

Upload a recent photograph of yourself. Make sure it meets the specifications mentioned on the website.

Step 5: Pay the Fee and Submit

Once all the details are submitted successfully along with the required documents and a photo, you will be required to pay a nominal fee (generally ₹107 for Indian citizens). You can pay the fees via net banking, UPI, debit card or credit card. 

Step 6: Acknowledgement

Acknowledgement receipt with a 15-digit tracking number will be given to you. Kindly keep it safe because it can help you track your PAN Card photo change application.

Step 7: Receive Your Updated PAN Card

After your photo change request is done, it will take a couple of weeks to get your new PAN Card delivered to your registered address.

2. PAN Card Photo Change Offline

For any reason, if you want to change the photo in the PAN Card offline, then here is the step-by-step process: 

Step 1: Download the Application Form

Download and get a printout of the Form for Change or Update PAN Data or else you can get the form from your nearest PAN Seva Kendra. 

Step 2: Fill in the Details

Fill in the required details and be sure to clearly mention “Photo Change” in the form.

Step 3: Provide Documents

Along with the form, you need to submit supporting documents. 

Step 4: Submit the Form and Pay the Fee

Submit the form along with all required documents and make the payment. 

Step 5: Acknowledgement

Once you have submitted your application to change your PAN Card photo offline, you will receive an acknowledgement letter. 

Step 6: Receive Your Updated PAN Card

Your PAN Card with an updated photo will be delivered to your registered address. 

Important Points to Remember While Updating a Photo in a PAN

• Be accurate: You do not want any errors in your information, including the new photo, to be updated on your application. The process may be hampered by any mistakes.

• Photo quality: The picture used must be of good quality and clear. Avoid out-of-focus or dark photos.

• Timely submission: Do not wait before filing your application. The faster you make the request, the sooner you will get your new PAN card.

• Follow up your application: In case you have filled out an application online, you should keep checking your application status so that you get updated and stay updated with the latest status. 

• Visit the right portal: You can visit the official Protean (NSDL) website or UTIITSL portal to prevent fraud or unwanted expenses.

Over to You

It is convenient to change your PAN card photo, whether online or offline. With the help of the steps provided in this guide, you will be able to change your PAN Card photo, and you do not have to go through any trouble. It is not just about the looks, a latest photo in PAN card will also help ensure that your records are updated, which is important when availing financial services in the country. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we change the photo in the PAN Card? ​

Yes, you can change the photo on your PAN card.

What are the rules for PAN card photos?

The photo required in the PAN card should be recent, clear and of passport size. The picture must be colored, and the face must occupy 70-80% of the picture. It is not supposed to be distorted or dimly lit.

What are the charges for updating a pic on a PAN card?

In general, it costs ₹107 to Indian residents (including the application fee and processing expenses).