PAN Card:
- Physical Form: The PAN card is a physical card issued by the Income Tax Department.
- Delivery: It is delivered to the applicant's address via postal services.
- Issuance Time: The process of issuing a physical PAN card usually takes longer, typically around 15-20 days from the date of application.
- Application: You can apply for a physical PAN card through both online and offline modes.
e-PAN Card:
- Electronic Form: The e-PAN card is a digitally signed document issued in electronic format (PDF).
- Delivery: It is delivered to the applicant via email.
- Issuance Time: The e-PAN card is usually issued much faster, often within 48 hours of application.
- Application: The application for an e-PAN card is done online. It can be issued based on Aadhaar e-KYC, which simplifies the process.
- Legality: The e-PAN card is legally valid and equivalent to the physical PAN card for all financial and legal purposes.