When you apply for a PAN card online, you are required to upload supporting documents such as Aadhaar, proof of address, or proof of date of birth. Many applicants face rejections or upload errors because their PDF files are either too large, not properly scanned, or not in the correct format. Understanding the exact requirements will save you from repeated errors and delays.
This guide explains the official upload rules, the step-by-step process to prepare your documents, and provides trusted tools you can use for compression and conversion.
PAN Card Document Upload Size & Format Requirements
| Portal | Accepted Format | Size Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSDL (Protean) | < 300 KB per page | Each page must individually meet the 300 KB limit. | |
| UTIITSL | < 2 MB total | Entire PDF with all pages combined must stay under 2 MB. |
Make sure to check whether you are applying via NSDL or UTI as their requirements differ slightly. Submitting the wrong file size is one of the most common reasons for delays.
How to Prepare & Upload Your Documents (Step-by-Step)
- Scan or Photograph: Use a good quality scanner or smartphone. Ensure that every detail on the document is clearly visible and free from glare or shadows.
- Save as PDF: Most scanning apps such as Google Drive, Adobe Scan, or CamScanner save directly to PDF. If your file is an image (JPG/PNG), convert it using any online converter.
- Compress if Necessary: If your file is above the allowed size, use a tool like PANResizer.com, iLovePDF, or SmallPDF to reduce it without losing readability.
- Verify File Size: On PC, right-click and select “Properties” to check KB or MB. On mobile, use the “Details” option. Ensure it is within the required limit.
- Upload to the Official Portal: Visit NSDL or UTI, log in, and upload your prepared files.
Official PAN Application Links
| Portal | Link |
|---|---|
| NSDL (Protean) | NSDL PAN Portal |
| UTIITSL | UTIITSL PAN Services |
| Apply Online | NSDL Application Form |
Tips for Smooth Document Upload
- Check that every page is upright and clearly readable before saving.
- If you have a multi-page PDF, make sure each page for NSDL is under 300 KB, or keep the total file under 2 MB for UTI.
- Always double-check after compression that the file is not corrupted and opens properly.
- If you face repeated upload errors, try splitting your PDF into smaller parts and re-uploading.
Properly prepared PDFs will upload smoothly and help your PAN application move forward without errors.
Avoid last-minute stress by checking size and format in advance!
Avoid last-minute stress by checking size and format in advance!
FAQ – PAN Card Document Upload
What is the maximum size for PAN documents?
For NSDL, each page of your PDF must be under 300 KB. For UTI, the entire PDF must not exceed 2 MB in total.
Can I upload JPG or PNG instead of PDF?
No, both NSDL and UTI require documents in PDF format. Use any free tool to convert images to PDF before uploading.
How can I reduce PDF size without losing quality?
You can use online compressors like PANResizer.com, iLovePDF, or SmallPDF. These tools keep text readable while lowering file size.
What if my upload keeps failing?
Re-check file format and size. If still failing, try compressing further or splitting into multiple smaller PDFs, then re-upload.