Can You Do a Job Without a PAN Card in India? [Full Guide 2025]

by

In today’s time, getting a job is a big milestone for many people. But while starting a new job, we often get confused about the required documents. One of the most commonly asked questions by job seekers is:

“Can I do a job without a PAN card?”

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the PAN card and whether it is necessary to have one before joining a job. Let’s break this down in a very simple way so that anyone can understand it easily.

🔷 What is a PAN Card?

PAN stands for Permanent Account Number. It is a 10-digit unique alphanumeric number issued by the Income Tax Department of India. Every Indian citizen who earns income, pays taxes, or even wants to open a bank account is advised to have a PAN card.

The main purpose of PAN is to track your financial transactions. It is linked to your income, tax payments, and many financial activities.

🔷 Why is a PAN Card Important for Jobs?

When you start working, your employer pays you a salary. If your salary is taxable (above the tax exemption limit), your company must deduct TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) and deposit it with the Income Tax Department.

Here’s where the PAN card becomes important:

  • PAN is used to calculate your exact tax deduction.
  • It helps the company issue Form 16, which is required while filing Income Tax Return (ITR).
  • It is needed for salary account creation, especially if you’re earning ₹15,000 or more monthly.
  • For Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and Employee State Insurance (ESI) registrations, PAN is often required.

🔷 Can You Legally Work Without a PAN Card?

✅ Yes – in some specific situations

❌ No – for full-time, permanent jobs

Let’s understand both cases:

✅ You CAN join a job without PAN in some cases:

  • If you are joining as a trainee or intern
  • If your salary is below the taxable limit
  • If the company agrees to temporarily allow without PAN (you may be asked to submit it later)

❌ You CANNOT continue long-term without PAN in these situations:

  • If your salary is taxable (above ₹2.5 lakhs per year)
  • If your employer deducts TDS
  • If you need Form 16 or want to file ITR
  • If you want to receive PF and ESI benefits

So, while you may get the job, continuing in it without PAN may create legal or financial issues for you later.

🔷 What Happens If You Don’t Submit PAN to Employer?

If you don’t give your PAN card to your employer, you might face these issues:

❗ Higher TDS Deduction:

Normally, TDS is deducted at 10%. But if you don’t provide PAN, the company is legally required to deduct 20% TDS from your salary. That means less in-hand salary for you.

❗ No Form 16:

Without PAN, you won’t get Form 16, which is a necessary document for filing Income Tax Return (ITR).

❗ Trouble in Filing ITR:

Your income won’t be properly linked without PAN. If you try to file ITR without Form 16 and PAN, it can create complications.

❗ No EPF/ESI Benefits:

To get registered under EPF or ESI schemes, most companies need your PAN details.

❗ Income Tax Penalties:

In some cases, the Income Tax Department may issue notices for mismatched or unverified salary records.

🔷 Can Students or Freshers Get Jobs Without PAN Card?

Many students apply for part-time jobs or internships before getting their PAN card. Here’s what you should know:

  • If you’re working for experience or learning, PAN may not be required immediately.
  • If you’re receiving a stipend or pocket money, and it’s under taxable limits, it’s okay.
  • But if the company wants to give you an official salary or benefits, PAN is necessary.

💡 Tip: If you are in your final year or just graduated, apply for your PAN card early. It’s free and fast.

🔷 How to Apply for PAN Card Easily?

Getting a PAN card is very easy. You can do it online within 10-15 minutes. Here’s how:

🔹 Step-by-step Process:

  1. Visit https://www.tin-nsdl.com/ or https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/
  2. Select New PAN – Indian Citizen (Form 49A)
  3. Fill in details: Name, DOB, Aadhaar number, address, etc.
  4. Upload a photo, signature, and proof documents (Aadhaar is enough).
  5. Pay the fee (around ₹100).
  6. You’ll get an acknowledgment receipt.

⏱ Time Required:

  • e-PAN (digital): Ready in 48 to 72 hours
  • Physical PAN Card: Delivered in 7 to 15 days by post

✅ Documents Required:

  • Aadhaar Card
  • Passport-size Photo
  • Signature (scanned or on paper)
  • Mobile number linked with Aadhaar

🔷 Temporary Solutions if You Don’t Have PAN Yet

Sometimes, you may get a job offer and your PAN is still in process. In that case:

  • Ask your employer if they allow temporary joining with Aadhaar only.
  • Give the Acknowledgment Number from your PAN application.
  • Submit your e-PAN once it’s ready (usually within 2-3 days).

Most HR teams understand this and allow temporary relaxation for freshers.

🔷 Can You Work in a Private Company Without PAN?

  • Small startups or shops may not ask for PAN initially.
  • But most registered companies or MNCs will ask for PAN during onboarding.
  • Even private companies need PAN for salary, PF, and tax reporting.

So, it’s better to have a PAN card even for private jobs.

🔷 Can Freelancers or Part-Time Workers Work Without PAN?

If you’re doing freelance work or gig jobs (like content writing, designing, delivery), here’s what applies:

  • If the payment is small (under ₹30,000), the client may not ask for PAN.
  • But if they deduct TDS, PAN is required to avoid higher tax.
  • Without PAN, you’ll lose 20% of your income to TDS and can’t claim it back.

Freelancers also need PAN for opening current accounts or business-related tax filings.

🔷 Is PAN Card Mandatory for Jobs?

Yes, in most cases, a PAN card is mandatory to work legally in India.

Even if it’s not asked at the time of joining, it will be needed:

  • While receiving salary
  • While paying taxes
  • While claiming tax refund
  • While getting PF or insurance benefits

So, don’t delay it. Apply for your PAN card early and avoid all future problems.

📌 FAQs on Job Without PAN Card

❓ Can I start a job while my PAN card is being processed?

Yes, many companies allow this if you show proof of application. You must submit PAN once it is ready.

❓ Can I use e-PAN instead of physical PAN card?

Yes, e-PAN is equally valid. You can download it as PDF and submit it to HR.

❓ Is PAN card needed for government jobs?

Yes, it is required during document verification and for salary payments in government jobs.

❓ Can I join a job with only Aadhaar card?

Aadhaar is accepted for identity verification, but PAN is still required for taxation and salary credit.

❓ What if my PAN card has a mistake or error?

You can correct it online at NSDL/UTI portal using the “Correction Form.”

If you are planning to work, whether as a full-time employee, part-timer, or freelancer, a PAN card is one of the most important documents you’ll need.

Not having a PAN card can lead to:

  • Higher taxes
  • Less salary
  • No PF or insurance
  • Trouble filing ITR

So don’t wait. Apply for your PAN card today – it’s easy, fast, and essential for your career in India.

Leave a Comment