Important News

PAN Card 2.0 & The 2025 Deadline:
Urgent Updates You Must Know

Oct 29, 2025 4 min read

The Indian government has greenlit the massive "PAN 2.0" project, and linking deadlines are tightening. If your PAN isn't updated, you risk fines and operative deactivation. Here is everything you need to know about the new smart card features and critical dates.

1 What is the PAN 2.0 Project?

Project Cost: ₹1,435 Crores approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA).

The "PAN 2.0" project is a comprehensive digital upgrade of the existing PAN ecosystem overseen by the Income Tax Department. The goal is to unify all PAN services under a single, streamlined platform.

  • QR Code Integration: New cards will feature enhanced QR codes containing demographic data for instant verification.
  • Unified Portal: No more confusion between NSDL (Protean) and UTIITSL. A single portal will handle applications, corrections, and grievances.
  • Paperless Process: A shift towards completely paperless, eco-friendly application processes using e-KYC.

2 The 2025 Deadline & ₹1,000 Fine

While the original extensive deadlines have passed, the government remains strict on PAN-Aadhaar linking. If you have not linked them yet:

Inoperative PAN

Your PAN will become "Inoperative." You cannot file ITRs, get pending refunds, or open new bank accounts.

₹1,000 Penalty

To reactivate your PAN, you must pay a late penalty of ₹1,000 before submitting the linking request.

3 Old vs. New PAN Card Design

Many users still hold the old black-and-white laminated cards. The new standard—which you can print easily using PVC Pro—includes:

  • Holographic Layer: A secure hologram preventing duplication.
  • Quick Response (QR) Code: Scannable code linked to your details.
  • Placement of Photo/Sign: Standardized placement for machine readability.
  • Dimensions: Standard CR80 credit-card size (85.6mm x 53.98mm).

If you have the PDF (e-PAN), converting it to a durable PVC card is the best way to carry this crucial document safely.

4 What Should You Do Now?

  1. 1. Check your status on the official Income Tax portal immediately.
  2. 2. If unlinked, pay the fine and link Aadhaar to avoid higher tax deductions (TDS/TCS).
  3. 3. Use PVC Pro to print a high-quality physical copy of your latest enabled e-PAN for your wallet.

Need a Professional PAN Card Print?

Download your e-PAN PDF and turn it into a perfectly cropped, printable PVC card in seconds with our tool.

Create PVC Card Now