GST Registration
- Art Teacher
- London, UK
- 5-7 Hrs
Are you starting a business and wondering whether you need GST registration? Whether you’re selling products, offering services, or operating online, GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a must-know tax regime that governs indirect taxes in India. It is a multi-stage, destination-oriented tax imposed on every value addition, replacing multiple indirect taxes, including VAT, excise duty, service taxes, etc. The moment your turnover crosses the prescribed threshold—₹40 lakhs for goods, ₹20 lakhs for services (₹10 lakhs for NE & hill states)—you are legally required to register under GST. But even if your turnover is lower, you might still voluntarily register to gain credibility, claim ITC (input tax credit), and participate in B2B transactions. GST registration is entirely online and once registered, you get a unique GSTIN (GST Identification Number) that must be displayed on your invoices and at your place of business.
Documents Required
- PAN card of applicant
- Aadhaar card
- Photograph
- Proof of business address (utility bill, rent agreement, etc.)
- Bank account details (statement/cancelled cheque)
- PAN card of entity & authorized signatory
- Aadhaar & photo of signatory
- Partnership deed or Certificate of Incorporation
- Board resolution/Authorization letter
- Business address proof
- Bank details
- Visit www.gst.gov.in
- Click ‘Register Now’ under Services > Registration
- Fill Part A: basic details (PAN, mobile, email, etc.) to receive OTP
- Fill Part B: upload documents and complete application
- Receive ARN (Application Reference Number)
- If required, respond to queries raised via Form GST REG-03
- Get GSTIN and Registration Certificate in 3–7 working days (Form GST REG-06)
FAQs
GST registration is mandatory for all businesses selling goods or services online through e-commerce platforms or make interstate sales even if your turnover is below the threshold. There is no turnover exemption for online/e-commerce sellers.
GST registration is state-specific. You must obtain separate GST registrations for each state from which you operate or supply goods/services.
PAN is mandatory for all except non-resident taxable persons and foreign entities, who get temporary IDs.
You must apply for GST registration within 30 days of becoming liable for registration.
Operating without mandatory GST registration can result in a penalty of 10% of the tax due (minimum ₹10,000), and if the evasion is found to be deliberate, the penalty can rise to 100% of the tax due.