How Much Time Does It Take to Get a GST Number in India?

Are you planning to start a business or provide services in India? If so, obtaining a GST number (also known as a GSTIN number or GST number) is one of the first and most crucial steps to ensure legal compliance and smooth operations. But most entrepreneurs and business owners ask a common question: "How long does it take to get a GST number?"

In this detailed blog, we will tell you about the GST registration process, timelines, common delays, and everything else you need to know to get your GSTIN number without any hassle.

What is a GST Number (GSTIN)?

The Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) is a special alphanumeric code containing 15 characters that is given to every business or individual registered under India’s GST system. It is issued by the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTIN) on behalf of the Government of India.

This number is mandatory for:

• Businesses are required to register for GST if their annual turnover exceeds the specified threshold: ₹40 lakh for those dealing in goods and ₹20 lakh for service providers.
• E-commerce sellers
• Service providers across states
• Exporters and importers

Having a valid GST number allows you to collect tax from customers and claim input tax credit.

Example:

If a business has a GSTIN of 27ABCDE1234F1Z5:

• 27: State code for Maharashtra

• ABCDE1234F: PAN of the entity

• 1: First registration with this PAN in Maharashtra

• Z: Default letter

• 5: Checksum character

Time Required to Get a GSTIN: Complete Timeline

Once you submit your GST registration application online with all the required documents, the processing time can range from 20 to 30 calendar days. However, this is not always certain; the timeline may vary depending on several key factors that affect the speed of approval.

Factors That Affect or Delay Your GST Registration

Aadhaar Authentication:
If Aadhaar-based e-verification is used during the application process, your identity is verified instantly through OTP, reducing manual intervention from GST officers. This method typically allows your GSTIN to be issued within 20 to 30 calendar days, depending on department workload and jurisdiction.

Incorrect or Mismatched PAN/Aadhaar Details:
Discrepancies in PAN and Aadhaar information may prompt a GST officer to conduct manual verification, which can cause processing delays.
Tips: Ensure all personal and business details match exactly across all documents.

Blurry or Unreadable Document Uploads:
Uploading unclear or low-resolution documents can lead to rejections or clarification notices.
Tips: Scan documents clearly using a good-quality scanner or scanning app.

Accuracy of Documents Submitted:
Errors or mismatches in your documents, such as PAN-Aadhaar inconsistencies, incorrect address proofs, or unclear scans, can trigger a notice for clarification. This delays the approval until all issues are resolved.

Response Time to Queries / Clarification Notices:
If the GST officer raises a query or requests additional documents and you respond late or incompletely, the approval will be held up. Prompt and accurate responses are crucial.
Tips: Keep a constant check on your ARN status and resolve any GST officer notices before the deadline.

Business Address Mismatch or Invalid Proof:
An address mismatch or a missing NOC can hold up verification of your business premises.
Tips: Submit valid address proof and include a landlord NOC if using rented property.

Location-Based Variations:
In some states or jurisdictions, the backend processing speed by GST officers may vary slightly due to local workload or procedural delays.

Here's a Quick Summary:

Note: Timelines are indicative and may vary based on the applicant’s case and jurisdiction. Beware of agencies or individuals who claim to provide GST numbers in just 2–3 days; such promises are often misleading and not aligned with the official processing timelines.

Step-by-Step GST Registration Process in India

• Start Application on GST Portal
  Initiate your GST registration by providing PAN and basic personal or business details on the official GST portal.
• Provide Business and Promoter Information
  Fill in the business description, contact information, and details of the owner, partners, or directors.
• Upload Required Documents
  Submit scanned copies of PAN, Aadhaar, business address proof, bank details, and other supporting documents.
• Complete Aadhaar Authentication (Mandatory)
  Aadhaar e-verification is now compulsory for identity confirmation, either through OTP or the biometric method.
• Receive ARN (Application Reference Number)
  Once the application is submitted, you’ll receive an ARN to track the status of your registration.
• Application Review and GSTIN Allotment
  The GST department reviews your application, and if everything is in order, issues your GSTIN in 20–30 calendar days.

Documents Required for GST Number

Incorrect paperwork is one of the primary reasons GST applications get delayed. You should keep ready the documents required for GST Registration:

For Individuals / Sole Proprietors

• PAN Card of the proprietor
• Aadhaar – For Aadhaar-based e-verification
• Photograph – Passport-size photo of the proprietor
• Business Address Proof – Utility bill, rent agreement, or NOC for business premises
• Ownership Proof (if any) – Property tax receipt or electricity bill (if owned premises)

For Companies / LLPs / Partnership Firms

• Company/Firm PAN Card – PAN issued in the name of the company or firm
• Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed – Proof of legal existence
• Board Resolution / Authorization Letter – For authorizing the signatory
• Director/Partner Aadhaar – Aadhaar card of authorized signatory
• Director/Partner PAN Card – PAN of the signatory
• Photograph of Authorized Signatory – Passport-size photo
• Business Address Proof – Rent agreement, electricity bill, or NOC from the owner
• Bank Account Proof – Cancelled cheque or bank statement in the name of the company or firm
• MOA and AOA – for Private and Public Limited Companies

How to Check GSTIN Number Status?

After submitting your GST registration application, it is important to keep track of its progress to ensure that there are no delays or missed information. The government has made it easy to check your GSTIN status online using your Application Reference Number (ARN), which is generated after submission.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Step 1: Visit the Official GST Portal
  Use the GST portal at www.gst.gov.in for all your registration, filing, and status-tracking needs.
• Step 2: Navigate to Application Status
  On the home page, go to the top menu and click on “Services”, then select “Registration”, and from the dropdown, click on “Track Application Status”.
• Step 3: Enter ARN
  Enter your 15-digit Application Reference Number (ARN) that you received on your registered email address and mobile number.
• Step 4: View Status
  Click “Search” to view whether your GST registration is under process, approved, or if any action is pending.

Tip: Keep track of your ARN frequently and reply promptly to any queries to prevent processing delays.

What Happens After You Get Your GSTIN Number?

Getting your GSTIN is just the beginning of your tax compliance journey. Once your GST number is issued, usually after 20 to 30 days, you need to follow certain mandatory steps to comply with the GST law:

1. Display GST Number on Invoices and Premises
   Legally, you must mention your GSTIN on all tax invoices and display it at your place of business.
2. File GST Returns Regularly
   Based on your turnover and business type, file monthly, quarterly, or annual GST returns like GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, etc.
3. Maintain GST-Compliant Books of Accounts
   Keep records of all sales, purchases, ITC, and payments to ensure accurate return filing and audit readiness.
4. Pay GST and Claim Input Tax Credit (ITC)
   Collect GST from customers, deposit it with the government, and claim ITC on eligible business purchases to lower your tax burden.

Conclusion

Getting your GST number doesn’t have to be a stressful process. With the proper documentation and a little help from professionals, you can get your GSTIN number in just a few weeks, especially when the submission goes smoothly.

At JustStart, we make GST registration easy for startups, freelancers, and businesses across India. Our experts ensure a quick, error-free application with complete document support, so you get your GST number without any delays or rejections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the full form of GSTIN?
GSTIN stands for Goods and Services Tax Identification Number, a 15-digit unique ID issued to registered taxpayers under GST.

2. Is GST registration mandatory for all businesses?
No. It is required only if your turnover crosses ₹40 lakh for goods or ₹20 lakh for services, or if you engage in interstate sales, e-commerce, or exports.

3. Can I get a GST number without Aadhaar authentication?
No. Aadhaar authentication is now mandatory. If OTP fails, biometric or offline verification will be required.

4. How can I check if my GSTIN is active?
Go to the GST website and choose the “Search Taxpayer” option, then select “Search by GSTIN” from the available menu.

5. Are GST Number and GST Certificate the Same Thing?
No. The GST number (GSTIN) is your 15-digit identification code. The certificate serves as formal proof of registration and includes your GSTIN.

6. Can JustStart help with state-wise GST registrations too?
Absolutely! JustStart offers pan-India GST registration and compliance services, including support for multi-state and e-commerce sellers.

7. How long does it take to receive my GSTIN after submitting the application?

Once you’ve successfully submitted your application and completed authentication, the GSTIN is typically issued within 15-20 calendar days. Delays may occur if there are discrepancies in the documents or additional verification is needed.