A PAN card is more than just a tax identification document in India—it’s essential for a wide range of financial, banking, and official transactions. That’s why it’s important to ensure all the details on your PAN card, including your photo, are accurate and up-to-date.

If your PAN card photo looks outdated, unclear, or simply doesn’t reflect your current appearance, the good news is you can easily update it online or offline. Here’s a complete guide on how to replace the old or unflattering photo on your PAN card with a recent, professional-looking one.

✅ Why Should You Update Your PAN Card Photo?

Your PAN card contains critical personal identification elements like your name, date of birth, signature, and photograph. If the photo is blurry, old, or unrecognizable, it may lead to issues with identity verification at banks, government offices, and during KYC processes.

Keeping your photo updated is also important for digital and biometric compliance, especially if you use Aadhaar-based services.

🖥️ How to Update PAN Card Photo Online

If you want a paperless and hassle-free experience, the online method is the best choice. Here’s how you can do it:

🔹 Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to the official Protean (formerly NSDL) PAN website:

🔹 Step 2: Select the Relevant Service

Under the “Services” tab, click on “PAN” and choose
“Apply for Changes or Corrections in PAN Data”.

🔹 Step 3: Choose the Appropriate Form

Select “Request for New PAN Card or/and Changes or Correction in PAN Data”. Choose your applicant category (individual, company, etc.).

🔹 Step 4: Fill Out the Online Form

Enter your personal details carefully. Upload a recent passport-size photograph in the format and dimensions specified on the portal.

🔹 Step 5: Make Payment

You will be redirected to the payment page. The fee may vary based on whether the communication address is in India or abroad.

🔹 Step 6: Submit and Track

After successful submission, you’ll receive a 15-digit Acknowledgement Number, which can be used to track your PAN application status online.

✅ Pro Tip: If you have Aadhaar e-KYC or a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), you can complete the entire process without submitting any physical documents.

📝 How to Update PAN Card Photo Offline

Prefer doing things the traditional way? Here’s how to update your PAN card photo offline:

🔹 Step 1: Visit the Nearest PAN Centre

Head to your local PAN service center (TIN-FC or PAN facilitation center).

🔹 Step 2: Fill Out the Form

Ask for the "Request for New PAN Card or/and Changes or Correction in PAN Data" form. Fill in all necessary fields carefully.

🔹 Step 3: Attach Required Documents

Along with the form, attach the following:

• A recent passport-sized photograph

• Proof of identity (like Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport)

• Proof of address

Make sure the documents are self-attested.

🔹 Step 4: Submit and Pay Fees

Hand over the form and documents to the PAN center executive and pay the applicable charges. You’ll receive a 15-digit Acknowledgment Number for tracking your application status.

📌 Key Points to Remember

• The uploaded photo must meet the size and format criteria (as specified by the portal).

• Ensure your Aadhaar details match your PAN card to avoid rejection.

• Use a clear, front-facing photograph with a light background.

• The photo update is part of a broader PAN correction/update request. So, even if only the photo needs to be changed, a full form submission is required.

🧾 Final Thoughts

Whether you're upgrading your PAN card photo for personal satisfaction or to meet modern KYC standards, the process is simple, quick, and secure. With both online and offline options available, you can choose the one that suits you best.

Make sure your PAN card reflects the best version of you—because even official documents deserve a makeover!