UTI vs NSDL PAN Card Photo & Signature Requirements – What’s the Difference?

PAN Card Photo & Signature Requirements: UTIITSL vs NSDL

When applying for or updating a PAN card in India, the two main agencies authorized to process your application are NSDL (now Protean eGov Technologies Limited) and UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited). Both agencies follow guidelines set by the Income Tax Department, but applicants often wonder if there are differences in the photo and signature requirements for PAN cards processed through UTIITSL and NSDL. Here’s a comprehensive comparison to help you understand the nuances.

Common Photo & Signature Requirements for PAN Card (NSDL & UTI)

Both NSDL and UTIITSL adhere to the official standards set by the Income Tax Department. The requirements for photographs and signatures are largely the same across both platforms:

• Number of Photos: Two recent color passport-sized photographs are required.
• Photo Size: 3.5 cm x 2.5 cm.
• Background: White background is mandatory for clarity.
• Photo Quality: The photographs must be clear, unblemished, and not stapled or clipped to the form. The clarity of the image on the PAN card depends on the quality of the photograph affixed.
• Signature: The applicant must sign within the designated box on the form. The signature should not spill out of the box or be on the photo affixed on the right side of the form Source 1 Source 2.
• Signature on Photo: The signature or left thumb impression should be provided across the photo affixed on the left side of the form, such that part of the signature is on the photo and part on the form.
• Thumb Impression: If a thumb impression is used, it must be attested by a gazetted officer, magistrate, or notary public with an official stamp and seal.
• Digital Applications: For online applications, scanned copies of the photo and signature must meet the specified size and clarity requirements.

Are There Any Differences Between UTI and NSDL?

Photo Requirements

Conclusion: There is no difference in the photo requirements between NSDL and UTIITSL. Both require two recent color photos of the same size and background, affixed as per instructions.

Signature Requirements

Conclusion: The signature requirements are identical for both agencies. The process for attesting thumb impressions and the placement of signatures is governed by the same rules.

Digital/Online Application Differences

• Scanning & Uploading: Both portals require scanned images of the photo and signature for online applications. UTIITSL provides specific pixel dimensions (e.g., 213 x 213 px for photos, scanned at 300 dpi), but these are in line with the overall size requirement and do not differ significantly from NSDL’s requirements.
• Submission: After completing the online form, applicants must send a physical copy of the acknowledgment, affixed with photos and signatures, to the respective agency’s office.

Key Dos and Don’ts

Do:

• Use recent, clear, color photographs with a white background.
• Sign within the designated box and across the left photo as instructed.

Do not:

• Staple, clip, or mark the photographs.
• Let your signature spill outside the box or cover your face in the photograph.
• Forget to ensure thumb impressions are properly attested if used.

Summary Table: UTI vs NSDL PAN Card Photo & Signature Requirements

Final Thoughts

There is essentially no substantive difference between UTIITSL and NSDL (Protean) regarding PAN card photo and signature requirements. Both agencies follow the same government-mandated guidelines. The only minor variation lies in the way digital files may be specified for online uploads, but the core requirements for photo size, background, and signature placement are identical. Always refer to the latest instructions on the respective websites and ensure your documents meet the standards to avoid rejection or delays.