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Check whether you need to link PAN and Aadhaar

NRIs do not have to link PAN and Aadhaar. But if the tax department's record does not show you as non-resident, your PAN can be marked inoperative.

Keep these ready

• PAN
• Passport and visa
• Proof of your stay abroad

Steps

1. Log in to the e-filing portal and check whether your PAN shows as operative.
2. If it shows inoperative, find your Jurisdictional Assessing Officer (JAO) on the portal.
3. Send the JAO proof that you are a non-resident, such as your passport with visa and travel stamps, and ask them to update your status.
4. You can still file your return while the PAN is inoperative, but refunds are held and TDS is deducted at a higher rate until it is fixed.
5. Write to NRI Prism for more information.

Official portal: Income Tax e-filing

Last checked 28 Oct 2026. General information, not advice. Always check the official source before you act.