Get GST Registration explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
GST Registration is one of the most common registrations Indian businesses ask us about. This complete guide covers what it is, who needs it, the documents, the exact process, fees, validity and the penalties for non-compliance — everything in one place.
What is GST Registration?
GST Registration is granted by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) / State GST department, via the GST portal (gst.gov.in) under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017. It is the legal authorisation that lets an eligible person or business operate in compliance with the applicable rules.
Who needs GST Registration?
- Businesses with aggregate turnover above ₹40 lakh for goods (₹20 lakh for services; ₹20/₹10 lakh in special-category states)
- Inter-state suppliers of goods, e-commerce sellers and operators
- Casual taxable persons and non-resident taxable persons
- Anyone required to pay tax under reverse charge or voluntarily seeking input-tax-credit benefits
Benefits of GST Registration
- Legal authority to collect GST and issue tax invoices
- Eligibility to claim input tax credit on purchases
- Mandatory for selling on e-commerce marketplaces and inter-state trade
- Improves credibility with vendors, banks and B2B customers
Documents required
- PAN of the business / proprietor
- Aadhaar of the proprietor / partners / directors (for Aadhaar authentication)
- Proof of business registration or incorporation (partnership deed / COI)
- Photograph of proprietor / partners / directors
- Principal place-of-business proof (electricity bill + rent agreement / NOC / ownership proof)
- Bank account proof — cancelled cheque or first page of passbook / bank statement
- Digital Signature (DSC) for companies and LLPs; EVC/Aadhaar OTP for others
GST Registration process — step by step
- Create a TRN — On gst.gov.in go to Services → Registration → New Registration (Part A), enter PAN, mobile and email to generate a Temporary Reference Number.
- Complete Part B — Log in with the TRN and fill business details, promoters, authorised signatory, place of business, goods/services (HSN/SAC) and bank details.
- Upload documents — Attach the address, identity and bank proofs in the prescribed formats.
- Aadhaar authentication — Complete Aadhaar e-KYC to fast-track approval and avoid physical verification.
- Submit with DSC / EVC — Verify and submit the application (ARN is generated).
- Receive GSTIN — On approval, the 15-digit GSTIN and registration certificate (Form REG-06) are issued and downloadable from the portal.
Fees, timeline and validity
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Government fee | GST registration on the government portal is free of cost — there is no statutory fee. |
| Professional fee (typical) | ₹500 – ₹2,500 (professional fee for filing and clarification handling) |
| Processing time | Normally 3–7 working days; up to 30 days if Aadhaar authentication is skipped and physical verification is triggered. |
| Validity | Regular GST registration has no expiry and continues until surrendered or cancelled; casual/NRTP registrations are time-bound (90 days, extendable). |
Penalty for non-compliance
Operating without registration when liable attracts a penalty of 10% of tax due (minimum ₹10,000), or 100% of tax due where evasion is deliberate, plus recovery of the tax itself.
Related guides on GST Registration
- Documents Required for GST Registration
- GST Registration Eligibility Criteria
- GST Registration Fees & Government Charges
- GST Registration Process Step by Step
- Benefits of GST Registration
- GST Registration Renewal: Process and Validity
- How to Cancel or Surrender GST Registration
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Talk to an expert →Frequently Asked Questions
What is GST Registration and who issues it?
GST Registration is issued by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) / State GST department, via the GST portal (gst.gov.in) under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017. Businesses with aggregate turnover above ₹40 lakh for goods (₹20 lakh for services; ₹20/₹10 lakh in special-category states).
What documents are required for GST Registration?
Key documents include: PAN of the business / proprietor; Aadhaar of the proprietor / partners / directors (for Aadhaar authentication); Proof of business registration or incorporation (partnership deed / COI); Photograph of proprietor / partners / directors.
What are the fees for GST Registration?
GST registration on the government portal is free of cost — there is no statutory fee. Professional assistance typically costs ₹500 – ₹2,500 (professional fee for filing and clarification handling).
How long does GST Registration take and how long is it valid?
Normally 3–7 working days; up to 30 days if Aadhaar authentication is skipped and physical verification is triggered. Regular GST registration has no expiry and continues until surrendered or cancelled; casual/NRTP registrations are time-bound (90 days, extendable).
What happens if I don't get GST Registration?
Operating without registration when liable attracts a penalty of 10% of tax due (minimum ₹10,000), or 100% of tax due where evasion is deliberate, plus recovery of the tax itself.