Important Disclaimer
Government processes, fees, documents, and portal interfaces may change without notice. Always verify the latest requirements on the official government website before submitting any application. ToolBox is not affiliated with any government body.
Overview
GST registration is mandatory for businesses whose aggregate turnover exceeds the prescribed threshold limit. The entire process is online through the GST portal. After registration, you receive a unique Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) and can download the registration certificate.
Eligibility
- Businesses with turnover above the threshold limit (varies by state and business type)
- E-commerce operators and suppliers
- Inter-state suppliers of taxable goods/services
- Casual taxable persons and non-resident taxable persons
Documents Required
- PAN of the business or applicant
- Proof of business registration (Certificate of Incorporation, partnership deed, etc.)
- Identity and address proof of promoters/partners
- Bank account statement or cancelled cheque
- Proof of business address (rent agreement, electricity bill, etc.)
- Digital signature (for companies and LLPs)
Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| GST registration No government fee for GST registration | Free |
| Professional assistance (optional) If you hire a CA or GST practitioner | Varies |
Processing Time
7 to 15 working days
If additional documents are requested, the timeline may extend based on response time.
Step-by-Step Process
Visit the GST portal
Open the official Goods and Services Tax portal. The homepage provides access to registration, login, taxpayer search, and help topics.
Register / Login
Click REGISTER if you are a new user, or LOGIN to access an existing account.
Register / Login
Click REGISTER if you are a new user, or LOGIN to access an existing account.
Start new registration
On the GST login page, click the link for first-time login or new registration. Select "Taxpayer" as the application type to begin Part A of the registration.
First time login / New user
New applicants should click here to register and generate a Temporary Reference Number (TRN).
First time login / New user
New applicants should click here to register and generate a Temporary Reference Number (TRN).
Keep your PAN, email, and mobile number handy. OTPs will be sent to both.
Enter basic details and verify with OTP
Fill in the legal name of the business as per PAN, PAN number, email, and mobile number. You will receive OTPs on your registered mobile and email. Enter them to proceed to Part B.
Login-required step
Error: "OTP expired" — OTPs are valid for a short duration. Generate a new one if needed.
Complete Part B with business details
Log in with your TRN and complete Part B. Provide business address, bank account details, authorised signatory information, and upload required documents such as proof of business registration and address.
Login-required step
Enter the business name exactly as on PAN to avoid auto-rejection.
Submit with DSC or EVC
For companies and LLPs, submit the application using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). For other taxpayers, use Electronic Verification Code (EVC) sent to the authorised signatory's mobile.
Login-required step
Register your DSC under "My Profile" before submitting if you are using one.
Receive GSTIN and download certificate
After approval, you will receive a Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN). Log in to the GST portal and download the registration certificate. You can also use the public "Search Taxpayer" feature to verify a GSTIN.
Search by PAN
Enter your PAN here to verify your GST registration details publicly.
Search by PAN
Enter your PAN here to verify your GST registration details publicly.
The certificate is password-protected. The password is the first 2 letters of your name in small case followed by the last 5 digits of your PAN.
Common Mistakes
Common Errors & Fixes
| Error | Fix |
|---|---|
| TRN not valid or expired | The Temporary Reference Number expires after 15 days. Start a fresh application if expired. |
| Aadhaar authentication failed | Ensure Aadhaar is linked to the authorised signatory's mobile number and retry. |
| Application rejected for document mismatch | Reapply with correct documents matching the PAN and business address proof. |
| DSC not registered | Register your DSC under "My Profile" before submitting the application. |