In Nepal, the Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a unique identification number issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). It is used to track and manage the financial activities of individuals and businesses. Whether you are a salaried employee, freelancer, business owner, or someone who deals with taxable income, you are required by law to have a PAN card. The good news is that applying for a PAN card can now be done online, without needing to stand in long queues or rely on agents.
This guide explains the complete process of applying for a PAN card online in Nepal. It is designed for beginners, and anyone who wants to handle the process themselves β using just a mobile or computer.
Why You Need a PAN Card
The Government of Nepal has made it mandatory for various categories of people to have a PAN card. If you are working in the formal sector, receiving a salary from a registered company or government office, or running your own business, you must obtain one. Freelancers, digital workers, and those receiving regular payments through banking channels also need a PAN to remain compliant with tax laws. In recent years, PAN cards have also become necessary for opening business bank accounts, filing tax returns, and receiving payments from clients and institutions.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for PAN Card Online
To begin the process, visit the official website of the Inland Revenue Department at https://ird.gov.np. From the homepage, go to the “Taxpayer Portal” section and click on the registration link. Alternatively, you can go directly to the online registration system via https://vat.ird.gov.np. On this page, you will find an option to register for PAN as an individual or a business.
If you are an individual, such as an employee, student, or freelancer, choose the “Individual” category. If you are registering for a company or partnership, select the appropriate business option. The form will ask for basic personal details like your full name, fatherβs or motherβs name, date of birth, district, local municipality, and contact information. You will also be required to specify your income source β whether it is salary, business income, consultancy, or others.
Once the form is filled out, you need to upload scanned copies of your documents. The required documents include your citizenship certificate (both front and back), a recent passport-sized photo, and your signature. Make sure the scanned files are clear, readable, and within the required size limits. Upload each file carefully and check that the details on your documents match what youβve entered in the form.
After submitting the application, the system will generate a submission number. This number is important and should be saved or printed out. Youβll need it when visiting the tax office to collect your PAN card.
Even though the application process is online, you are still required to visit the assigned Inland Revenue Office for document verification and card collection. The system automatically assigns the IRD office closest to the address you provided during the application. When visiting, carry your original citizenship certificate and your submission number. Usually, the card is ready within two to three working days.
Important Things to Know
Applying for a PAN card is free. You do not need to pay any service charge unless you choose to go through a third-party service provider or agent. However, the online process is user-friendly and designed to be completed by individuals themselves. Itβs highly recommended to use your own information and avoid errors by entering correct spelling in both English and Nepali. Mismatched information can lead to delays or rejection.
PAN cards have multiple benefits. They help in transparent tax filing, reduce chances of double taxation, and build your financial identity. For freelancers and those earning online income from foreign sources, a PAN card also makes it easier to register for payment platforms and handle legal invoices.
Final Words
The process of applying for a PAN card online in Nepal has become much simpler in recent years. By following a few easy steps, you can complete your registration from home and receive your official PAN card in a matter of days. Whether youβre a student starting your first job, a freelancer building a digital career, or a business owner looking to formalize your operations, getting your PAN card is the first step toward legal and financial empowerment.
If you havenβt registered yet, now is the right time to do it. A few minutes today can save you from tax complications and missed opportunities tomorrow.