A Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is one of the most critical financial documents in India. However, many people still use PAN cards with childhood or blurry photos. This often leads to Bank KYC rejection or identity verification issues.
The good news? You can update your photograph entirely online. This guide covers the step-by-step process for both official government service providers: NSDL (Protean) and UTIITSL.
Technical Specifications (Avoid Rejection)
Before starting, you must prepare your digital files. 90% of PAN update failures happen because the photo doesn't meet these exact requirements:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 213 x 213 Pixels (3.5 cm x 2.5 cm) |
| Resolution | 200 DPI |
| File Size | 10KB to 30KB |
| Format | JPEG / JPG |
💡 Pro Tip: Don't try to resize manually in Paint, it often ruins the DPI. Use our Official PAN Card Photo Resizer to get the perfect 200 DPI 213px file in one click.
Option 1: Changing PAN Photo via NSDL (Protean)
Most users prefer the NSDL portal because of its high success rate with Aadhaar-based e-KYC.
Step 1: Visit the Protean Portal
Go to the Official Protean (NSDL) Online Service Page. Select 'Changes or Correction in existing PAN Data' from the Application Type dropdown.
Step 2: Register and Get Token
Enter your personal details (Name, DOB, Mobile, and Email). Once submitted, you will receive a Token Number. Copy this down immediately it allows you to resume your application if your internet disconnects.
Step 3: Select "Photo Mismatch"
This is the most important part. On the main form, scroll to the checkboxes and Tick the box for 'Photo Mismatch'. If you don't tick this, your photo will NOT be updated even if you upload a new one.
Step 4: Digital Upload
Select the option "Submit scanned images through e-Sign." Upload your resized photo and signature.
- Photo: Max 30KB
- Signature: Max 20KB
Step 5: Payment and OTP
Pay the processing fee (approx. ₹106). After payment, enter the OTP received on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Once verified, your request is submitted!
Option 2: Changing PAN Photo via UTIITSL
If your original PAN card was issued through UTI, it is often faster to use their portal.
Step 1: Access UTIITSL PAN Portal
Visit the UTIITSL PAN Card Services page and click on 'Apply for Change/Correction in PAN Card'.
Step 2: Choose Physical vs. Digital
Select 'Digital (Paperless)' for the fastest results. Enter your PAN number and select 'Both physical PAN Card and e-PAN'.
Step 3: Tick Correction Boxes
Similar to NSDL, you must check the box next to 'Photo Change'. Enter your details exactly as they appear on your Aadhaar Card.
Step 4: Document Upload & Payment
Upload your 213x213 pixel photo. Pay the fee using UPI, Debit Card, or Net Banking.
Step 5: e-Sign with Aadhaar
Authenticate your application using the Aadhaar-based e-Sign (OTP). You do not need to send any physical documents to the office.
NSDL vs. UTIITSL: Which should you choose?
Both are official government-authorized providers.
- Choose NSDL (Protean) if you want a cleaner interface and faster OTP delivery.
- Choose UTIITSL if your original PAN card has the UTI logo on the back, as they already have your records.
Documents Needed for Photo Update
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card (Highly Recommended).
- Date of Birth Proof: Birth Certificate or Aadhaar.
- Existing PAN: A scanned copy of your current PAN card.
- Resized Image: A clear passport-size photo with a white background.
Conclusion
Updating your PAN photo takes less than 15 minutes if your documents are ready. The biggest hurdle is always the image size.
Save yourself from "File format error" messages. Use the Pixel AI PAN Resizer to prepare your photo and signature before you start. Your new PAN card with the updated photo will usually arrive at your address within 15 to 20 working days.