Applying for a new PAN card or updating your PAN card details online? Then you’ll need to upload your photo, signature, and documents to either NSDL (Protean) or UTIITSL (UTI) portals. But here’s the tricky part—your files must match the official requirements exactly. Even a small mismatch in size, format, or DPI can lead to rejection.
Thousands of applicants face frustrating rejections simply because their files are too large, too blurry, or in the wrong format. This detailed guide will walk you through every step—photo, signature, and document requirements, resizing tips, DPI rules, and trusted tools. By the end, you’ll be fully prepared to upload flawless files and get your PAN card processed without delays.
PAN Card Photo Requirements
Your photo is your primary identity on the PAN card. Both NSDL and UTI portals follow strict rules:
| Portal | Format | Size | File Size | Color | DPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSDL | JPEG (JPG) | 3.5 × 2.5 cm (~276×197 px) | < 50 KB | Color | 200 |
| UTI | JPG, JPEG, PNG | 213 × 213 px | < 30 KB | Color | 300 |
Why so strict? Because the photo must print clearly on your PAN card. Wrong DPI or file size could make your face look blurry or pixelated.
How to Resize or Compress PAN Card Photo
The easiest option is PANResizer.com. It automatically crops, resizes, sets DPI, and adjusts file size for NSDL or UTI. No Photoshop needed.
- Select NSDL or UTI as per your application.
- Upload your photo in JPG/PNG.
- Crop if needed. Preview your photo.
- Download the resized image.
Alternative tools: ResizeImage.net, iLoveIMG, or Photopea.
PAN Card Signature Requirements
Your signature is equally important—it’s your legal validation. Rules differ for NSDL and UTI:
| Portal | Format | Size | File Size | Color | DPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSDL | JPG | 4.5 × 2 cm (~354×157 px) | < 50 KB | Color | 200 |
| UTI | JPG, JPEG, PNG | 400 × 200 px | < 60 KB | Black & White (preferred) | 600 |
Pro Tips: Sign on plain white paper with a dark pen. Avoid extra lines or shadows. Crop tightly so only the signature shows. Then resize using PANResizer.com.
Document Upload Requirements
Supporting documents (ID proof, address proof, DOB proof) must be uploaded as PDFs:
| Portal | Format | Size Limit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSDL | < 300 KB per page | All supporting documents | |
| UTI | < 2 MB total | All supporting documents |
If your documents are in JPG/PNG, convert them to PDF first. Use PANResizer JPG to PDF or tools like iLovePDF.
DPI and Format Rules
| File Type | NSDL | UTI |
|---|---|---|
| Photo DPI | 200 | 300 |
| Signature DPI | 200 | 600 |
| Accepted Image Formats | JPG | JPG, JPEG, PNG |
| Document Format |
Why it matters: DPI ensures clarity. A 600 DPI signature is sharper, making it easy for verification officers to confirm your identity.
Why Correct File Sizes Matter
- Immediate rejection: If your file is oversized or in the wrong format, the portal will block it instantly.
- Delays: Even if uploaded, mismatched files may cause manual rejections, delaying your PAN card.
- Wasted effort: You’ll have to re-upload, re-submit, or even reapply.
Summary: All PAN Card File Rules
| File Type | NSDL | UTI |
|---|---|---|
| Photo | JPG, 3.5×2.5 cm (~276×197 px), <50 KB, 200 DPI | JPG/PNG, 213×213 px, <30 KB, 300 DPI |
| Signature | JPG, 4.5×2 cm (~354×157 px), <50 KB, 200 DPI | JPG/PNG, 400×200 px, <60 KB, 600 DPI |
| Documents | PDF only, <300 KB per page | PDF only, <2 MB total |
Final Tips for a Smooth Application
- Check your photo and signature first—these cause most rejections.
- Use PANResizer.com to resize, crop, and compress automatically.
- Compress PDFs if they exceed limits. Tools: PANResizer, iLovePDF.
- Follow exact size rules—even 1 KB extra can block uploads.
- Double-check all files before final submission.
Good luck with your PAN card application!