Here's how NRIs can apply for PAN in India

First off, log on to the online PAN application page on the NSDL portal.

Now, if the applicant resides abroad, but is still an Indian citizen, then Form 49A must be selected.

In case the applicant is now a foreign citizen, then Form 49AA should be chosen.

Fill out necessary details, and click on 'Submit' button.

An acknowledgment slip will be issued to you.

Take a printout of the acknowledgement slip.

Attach necessary documents, viz. an identity proof (DL/Aadhaar card/Voter ID card), an address proof (Passport/Bank account statement), two recent passport-size photographs, and the demand draft (if it's your preferred payment mode).

Duly attest these documents and mail to:

Income Tax PAN Services Unit, National Securities Depository Limited, 3rd floor, Sapphire Chambers, Near Baner Telephone Exchange, Baner, Pune-411045.

It should be noted that December 31, 2019 is the last date to link your PAN with Aadhaar. Earlier, this deadline was September 30.

Now, if a taxpayer fails to meet the new deadline, their PAN would be rendered "inoperative".

However, the implications concerning an inoperative PAN have not yet been clarified by the government.

Following is the procedure to link the two documents.

To link PAN with Aadhaar online, log on to the Income Tax e-portal.

Next, under the 'Quick Links' section, click on 'Link Aadhaar.'

Enter details such as Aadhaar number, PAN, name, and Captcha code.

Submit the details, click on 'Link Aadhaar', and you're done.

After successful verification from UIDAI, the linkage will be confirmed.

Notably, you can also link PAN-Aadhaar via SMS.