Apply for GST Number Online in India | Simple Registration Guide

Goods and Services Tax (GST) has transformed India’s indirect tax system by bringing multiple taxes under one unified structure. Whether you are a small business owner, freelancer, e-commerce seller, service provider, or manufacturer, obtaining a GST number is essential to remain compliant and legally operate your business. The Government of India has made the entire GST registration process 100% online, simple, and free of cost.

This detailed 1500-word guide explains how to apply for a GST number online, documents required, eligibility, step-by-step process, fees, benefits, common mistakes, and more.

What Is a GST Number?

A GST Number, officially known as the GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number), is a unique 15-digit ID assigned to every taxpayer registered under GST.

It is used for:

  • Filing GST returns
  • Claiming input tax credit
  • Issuing tax invoices
  • Conducting inter-state sales
  • Selling on e-commerce portals like Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, etc.

Every GSTIN is linked to your PAN, state, and business entity type.

Who Needs a GST Number in India?

You must apply for GST registration if your business meets any of the following conditions:

Mandatory Registration Criteria
  1. Annual turnover exceeds ₹40 lakh (Goods – in most states)
  2. Annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh (Services – in most states)
  3. Inter-state supply of goods
  4. E-commerce sellers and suppliers
  5. Businesses requiring TCS/TDS under GST
  6. Casual taxable persons
  7. Input service distributors
  8. Reverse charge mechanism suppliers
  9. Online service providers to Indian customers
Voluntary Registration

Even if your turnover is below the limit, you may apply voluntarily to:

  • Claim input tax credit
  • Improve business credibility
  • Expand to inter-state markets
  • Work with big companies demanding GST invoices

Read More: Types Of Returns Under GST

Documents Required for GST Registration

Before applying online, keep the following documents ready:

1. Personal Documents
  • PAN card of the applicant
  • Aadhaar card
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Mobile number & email ID
2. Business Documents
  • Business PAN card (for company/LLP/firm)
  • Partnership deed or incorporation certificate
  • Business registration proof
3. Address Proof of Business

Any one:

  • Rent agreement
  • Electricity bill
  • Property tax receipt
  • NOC from property owner
4. Banking Documents
  • Cancelled cheque
  • Bank statement
  • Passbook front page
5. Additional Documents (Depending on Entity Type)
  • Company’s Board Resolution
  • Authorized signatory letter
  • Director/partner KYC documents

Having these documents handy speeds up the registration process.

Read More: Who Needs GST Registrations

How to Apply for GST Number Online: Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a simple guide to help you register for GST online through the GST Portal (www.gst.gov.in).

Step 1: Visit the GST Portal

Go to the official website and click on:
Services → Registration → New Registration

Step 2: Enter Your Basic Details

You need to fill:

  • Type of taxpayer (Normal, Composition, Casual, etc.)
  • State and district
  • Name & PAN
  • Mobile number & email ID

You will receive an OTP for verification.

Step 3: Get the Temporary Reference Number (TRN)

After OTP verification, you will receive a TRN, which allows you to continue your application even if you log out.

Use TRN to login again under:
Services → Registration → New Registration → TRN

Step 4: Fill the GST Application Form (10 Sections)

The application consists of 10 sections including:

  1. Business Details
  2. Promoter/Owner Information
  3. Authorized Signatory
  4. Principal Place of Business
  5. Additional Business Places
  6. Goods & Services Details
  7. State-Specific Information
  8. Bank Account Details
  9. Verification
  10. Document Upload

Make sure uploaded documents are clear and correct.

Step 5: Submit Required Documents

Upload all mandatory documents such as PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, and bank details.

Accepted file formats:

  • PDF/JPEG
  • Size: Up to 1 MB
Step 6: Aadhaar Authentication

You will receive an Aadhaar authentication link.

Once you verify via OTP, your application moves faster and may get approved within 1–3 working days.

Step 7: Application Verification

The GST officer reviews your application. They may approve immediately or issue a Notice for Clarification if anything is missing.

You must respond within 7 days.

Step 8: Download GST Registration Certificate

If approved, you will receive:

  • GSTIN (15-digit number)
  • GST Registration Certificate (downloadable from portal)

Congrats — your business is now GST-registered!

Read More: How to GST Registrations Online

GST Registration Fees

GST registration is completely free on the government portal.

However, if you hire a consultant, CA, or agency, they may charge ₹500–₹2,500 depending on their service.

Benefits of Having a GST Number

Getting a GSTIN provides several advantages:

✔ Legal Recognition of Your Business

You can operate across India without restrictions.

✔ Input Tax Credit (ITC)

Registered businesses can reduce tax liability by claiming ITC.

✔ Sell on E-Commerce Platforms

Amazon, Flipkart, and Meesho require GSTIN.

✔ Avoid Penalties

Operating without GST (when required) leads to heavy penalties.

✔ Enhances Business Credibility

Buyers prefer GST-compliant suppliers.

✔ Eligible for Government Tenders

Most tenders require a GST number.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During GST Registration

To avoid delays or rejection, avoid these common errors:

  • Using incorrect or mismatched PAN details
  • Uploading unclear documents
  • Wrong business category (Goods vs Services)
  • Incorrect address proof
  • Not completing Aadhaar authentication
  • Inconsistent bank details

Double-check your application before submitting.

How Long Does GST Registration Take?

With Aadhaar authentication: 1–3 working days
Without Aadhaar authentication: 7–15 working days

Delays may occur if the officer asks for clarifications.

Depending on your business type, you can choose

Types of GST Registration

  1. Normal Taxpayer
  2. Composition Scheme (for small businesses up to ₹1.5 crore)
  3. Casual Taxable Person
  4. Non-Resident Taxpayer
  5. Input Service Distributor
  6. E-commerce Operator

Selecting the correct category is crucial for compliance.

Penalties for Not Registering Under GST

If you operate without a GST number (when mandatory), penalties include:

  • 100% of tax due or
  • ₹10,000, whichever is higher

Additionally, interest is charged for late payments.

GST Return Filing After Registration

Once you obtain a GST number, you must file returns such as:

  • GSTR-1 (Sales)
  • GSTR-3B (Summary return)
  • GSTR-9 (Annual return)

Filing frequency may vary based on your turnover.

Read More: What is GST Return

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is GST registration free of cost?

Yes, registration on the GST portal is 100% free.

2. Do I need a GST number for selling online?

Yes, e-commerce sellers must have GSTIN.

3. Is Aadhaar authentication mandatory?

Yes, it speeds up approval and reduces chances of verification notice.

4. Can a freelancer apply for GST?

Yes, if your income exceeds ₹20 lakh per year (₹10 lakh in special states).

5. Can I update details later?

Yes, GST portal allows updates like address, phone number, or business changes.

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