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What is PRAN number?
The PRAN is a unique identification number allotted to every investor who joins the National Pension Scheme (NPS). The NPS is a government-backed retirement savings scheme in India. Let's find out more about what a PRAN card is and how you can apply for one in this article.
What is PRAN's full form and meaning?
PRAN stands for Permanent Retirement Account Number. It is a 12-digit unique identification number issued to every individual who registers under the NPS. Once assigned, this number remains the same throughout the subscriber's lifetime.
Having a PRAN is compulsory for all NPS account holders.
How to apply for a PRAN card online?
You can apply for a PRAN card online through the National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) eNPS portal. There are two ways to register for a PRAN online, depending on whether you choose to complete KYC using your PAN Card or Aadhaar Card. Both options are explained below.
How can I apply for a PRAN using my PAN card?
If you prefer to apply using your Permanent Account Number (PAN) card, you must have a valid PAN card. Once you have one, you can follow this process:
- To complete Know Your Client (KYC), you need to select a bank empanelled with eNPS and hold an account with that bank
- The bank you choose will verify your KYC details
- The name and address entered during registration must match the bank's KYC records
- You will be required to upload a scanned photograph and signature in .jpg or .jpeg format. The file size should be between 4 KB and 12 KB
- After completing the form, you will be redirected to a secure payment gateway to make the required contribution
- You will then receive your PRAN
What is the process to apply for PRAN using an Aadhaar Card?
You can also apply for PRAN using Aadhaar. The steps are as follows:
- In this case, you need to complete your KYC using Aadhaar-based OTP verification
- The OTP is sent to the mobile number linked with your Aadhaar
- Once authenticated, your personal details and photograph are automatically fetched from the Aadhaar database and filled into the application form
- You need to upload your scanned signature in .jpg or .jpeg format, with a file size between 4 KB and 12 KB
- To complete registration, you will be redirected to a payment portal where you can pay using a debit card, a credit card or net banking
- You will then receive your PRAN
How to apply for a PRAN card offline?
You can also apply for a PRAN card offline. Below are the steps you can follow:
- Visit an authorised Point of Presence (PoP) or PoP Service Provider to begin the application
- Collect and fill out the NPS application form, also known as Annexure S1
- Complete the KYC verification using either your PAN Card (via Annexure S1) or Aadhaar Card (via Annexure S2), depending on the option you choose
- Ensure that all personal details are filled in accurately and supporting documents are attached
- Submit the completed form and make the required contribution towards your NPS account at the PoP
- You will be issued a PRAN
What is the NRI application process for PRAN?
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can apply for a PRAN online through the eNPS portal by following the steps given below:
- Visit the eNPS portal and begin the PRAN registration process for NRI subscribers
- Click on Select the Bank Account Status
- Choose whether you want a Repatriable (NRE) or Non-Repatriable (NRO) account
- Enter the required bank account details linked to your selected NRE or NRO account
- Upload a scanned copy of your passport in .jpg or .jpeg format, ensuring the file size is between 4 KB and 12 KB
- Enter your Indian permanent address or your overseas residential address
- Your PRAN will be sent to you
Documents required to apply for PRAN card
Below are some documents required to apply for a PRAN card:
- Duly filled and signed PRAN application form
- Recent photograph of the applicant
- KYC documents for identity and address verification, such as PAN Card, Aadhaar Card or others
- Bank account details linked to the NPS account
- Cancelled cheque with your name, account number and IFSC code
What are the steps to check the status of a PRAN card?
You can track the status of your PRAN application by following these steps:
- Visit the NSDL website and navigate to the NPS portal
- Select PRAN Application Status (Through Acknowledgement Number)
- You will be redirected to a new page
- Click on Subscriber Registration Request Status
- Enter the required details
- Click on Search to view the status of your PRAN application
Steps to activate a PRAN card
Here's the process to activate a PRAN:
- Visit the official eNPS portal
- Enter your PRAN number along with the other details requested on the screen
- An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number or email ID. Enter this OTP to proceed
- Once verified, your user ID, password and login credentials will be generated
- Log in to your account
- Go to the Activation tab on the dashboard and enter the OTP generated earlier, along with the required details
- After submitting the information, click on 'Activate' to activate your ePRAN card
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can get a PRAN?
Any individual who subscribes to the NPS can get a PRAN. This includes Indian citizens as well as NRIs.
Is it possible to receive an electronic (e-PRAN) instead of a physical card?
Yes, subscribers can opt for an e-PRAN, which is a digital version of the PRAN card.
After applying, how and when will I get the PRAN card?
Once your application is successfully processed, your PRAN is generated. The PRAN card is usually printed and dispatched within around 20 days from the date the complete registration form is received.
Can I get more than one PRAN or multiple cards?
No. An NPS subscriber is allowed to hold only one PRAN throughout their lifetime.
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