So, if you want to open a business or provide services in India, you must obtain a GST number (or GSTIN number or GST Number), essentially for legal compliance and smooth running. But most entrepreneurs and businessmen ask a common question: "How long does it take to get a GST number?"
In this elaborate blog post, we cover the GST registration process, time periods, usual delays, and anything else you may want to know to obtain your GSTIN number hassle-free.
What is a GST Number (GSTIN)?
The Goods and Services Tax Identification Number, more commonly known as GSTIN, is a unique 15-character alphanumeric identity provided to every business or person registered under the existing GST system in India. It is issued by the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTIN) on behalf of the Government of India.
These are required options:
- Registering for the GST is obligatory upon a business having an annual turnover beyond the prescribed threshold of ₹40 lakh for goods and ₹20 lakh for services.
- E-commerce sellers
- Interstate service providers
- Exporters and importers
With a valid GST number, you would be able to collect tax from customers and claim input tax credit.
|
Position |
Component |
Description |
|
1–2 |
State Code |
First two digits represent the state code as per the 2011 Indian Census (e.g., 27 = Maharashtra). |
|
3–12 |
PAN |
The following ten characters represent the business’s or entity’s PAN (Permanent Account Number). |
|
13 |
Entity Code |
Indicates the number of registrations by the entity in a state using the same PAN (e.g., 1, 2, ... or A-Z). |
|
14 |
Default Alphabet |
Usually 'Z', reserved for future use or differentiating business types. |
|
15 |
Checksum Character |
An alphanumeric code used for error detection. |
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’ve submitted your application online for GST registration with all the necessary documentation, the time to process the said application can stretch from 20 to 30 calendar days. Yet this is not entirely certain-the time limit may differ on a number of key factors that impact the time taken for approval.
Factors That Affect or Delay Your GST Registration
Aadhaar Authentication:
On the execution of Aadhaar based e-Verification, the identity of the applicant is authenticated immediately by way of OTP, thereby limiting manual interventions by GST officials. Typically, based on the workload of the department and the jurisdiction of your application, your GSTIN should be issued within 20 - 30 calendar days.
Incorrect or Mismatched PAN/Aadhaar Details:
Such mismatches can cause the GST officer to conduct manual verification, all of which causes delay in processing.
Tips: All your personal and business details should appear exactly the same in all documents.
Unclear Document Uploads:
If an unclear or low-resolution document is uploaded, rejections or clarification notices may be issued.
Tips: Scan the documents clearly using a good-quality scanner or scanning app.
Accuracy of Documents Against Submission Against Documents:
Any errors or mismatches with your document, say PAN-Aadhaar mismatch, incorrect address proof, or even difficult-to-read scans, will prompt a notice for clarification, and till this is resolved, the approval will hold.
Response Time to Queries / Clarification Notices:
Where a GST officer raises a query or request for documents, and you delay or half-heartedly respond, then again on the hold will be the approval. Time-bound and accurate responses are highly advisable.
Tips: Keep checking on the status of ARN on a regular basis and address any GST Officer's notices before expiry.
Business Address Mismatch / Invalid Proof:
If your address mismatches or if NOC is not provided, then your verification of business premises will be stuck.
Tips: Keep a valid address proof and keep the NOC from the landlord if you're on the rented property.
Location-wise Changes:
In some states/jurisdictions, backend processing speed by GST officers will slightly vary depending on the local workload or delays in proceedings.
Here's a Quick Summary:
|
Registration Mode / Condition |
Estimated Time |
Explanation |
|
Online with Aadhaar Authentication |
20–30 calendar days |
Aadhaar e-verification is mandatory; however, grants of final approvals depend on the workload and location. |
|
Offline/Biometric Aadhaar Verification |
25–35 calendar days or more |
This check is invoked when the OTP fails or in cases of physical application; in other words, it is a face-to-face KYC. |
|
Application with Minor Errors |
30–40 calendar days (post correction) |
Minor mistakes like typos or some missing number of fields can trigger a clarification notice. |
|
Application with Major Errors |
Delayed until resolved |
In major cases like incorrect PAN, invalid documents, or mismatched details, processing stops. |
|
No Response to Officer’s Notice |
Application rejected after 7 days |
Failure to answer the officer's queries results in the application being rejected. |
|
Re-application After Rejection |
20–30 calendar days (fresh cycle) |
You can always try again, but you must start the entire process from scratch. |
|
Application Under Physical Verification |
30–45 calendar days or more |
On rare occasions, just before issuing the GSTIN, the officer might visit the premises. |
Note: Timelines are indicative and may vary based on the applicant’s case and jurisdiction. Beware of agencies or individuals who promise to get you a GST number within 2–3 days, as their promise is definitely a misleading one and does not fall into the official timelines.
Step-by-Step GST Registration Process in India
- Start Application on GST Portal
This step involves the initiation of the GST registration by being uploaded with the PAN number and basic personal or business details on the GST portal. - Provide Business and Promoter Information
Fill in the details for business description, contact information, and information about owners, partners, or directors. - Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of PAN, Aadhaar, business address proof, bank details, and all other supporting documentation. - Aadhaar Authentication
Now, identity confirmation through Aadhaar e-verification has become a must, either by way of OTP or biometrics. - Get ARN (Application Reference Number)
Once you submit your application, you will be provided an ARN to track your GST registration status. - Application Review and GSTIN Allotment
The application is reviewed by the GST department, and if satisfied, the GSTIN is allotted within 20-30 working days.
Documents Required for GST Number
The main causes for the rejections and delays in GST applications are incorrect documentation. GST Registration documents should be kept ready:
- For Individuals / Sole proprietors
- PAN card of a proprietary person
- Aadhaar: For e-verification on the basis of Aadhaar
- Photograph of Proprietor: Passport-size photograph
- Business Address proof: Utility bill or rent agreement, or NOC for premises being used for business purposes
- Ownership proof (if any): Property tax receipts or electricity bill (in the case of 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: Legal existence proof.
- Board Resolution/Authorization Letter: To authorize the signatory.
- Director/Partner Aadhaar: Authorized signatory's Aadhaar card.
- Director/Partner PAN Card: Signatory's PAN Card.
- Photograph of Authorized Signatory: Passport-size photograph.
- Business Address Proof: Rent agreement, electricity bill, or NOC from the owner.
- Bank Account Proof: Cancelled cheque or a copy of the bank statement in the name of the company or firm.
- MOA and AOA: for both Private and Public Limited Companies.
How to Check GSTIN Number Status?
Because submission of the GST Registration application is extremely crucial, one should keep a watch on its progression, being sure not to cause the slightest delay or omission. From the issuance of an ARN upon submission, the government has also facilitated checking the status of GSTIN via online mode.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Go to the Official GST Portal
The GST portal at www.gst.gov.in is to be used for registration, filing, and tracking statuses.
Step 2: Proceed to Application Status
From the home page, hover over “Services” to get the drop-down menu, select “Registration” and then click on “Track Application Status”.
Step 3: Enter ARN
Enter your 15-digit Application Reference Number (ARN), which would have been provided to you on your registered email address and mobile number.
Step 4: Check Status
Now click on “Search” to see whether the GST registration is under process, approved, or if any action is to be taken by the concerned authority.
Tip: Track your ARN frequently and respond immediately to any queries to avoid delays in processing!
What Happens After You Get Your GSTIN Number?
Getting a GSTIN is just the first step in a long journey of tax compliance. After the issuance of the GST number, usually after 20 to 30 days, a few mandatory steps are taken to comply with the GST law:
- Displaying GST Number on Invoices and Premises
The law states that every invoice should carry a GST number along with a display at the place of business. - File the Returns Pertaining to GST on Time
Returns like GSTR-1, GSTR3B, etc., should be filed on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis, depending upon the turnover and the type of business. - Maintain Books of Account That Are GST Compliant
Maintaining records of all sales, purchases, ITC, and payments for the filing of returns and audit purposes in the near future. - Pay GST and Claim ITC
Charge GST from your customers and deposit it with the government while claiming ITC on purchases that are eligible for business use to offset your tax liabilities.
Conclusion
Getting a GST number is not supposed to be a stressful process. With the right documents and a little professional assistance, your GSTIN number can be obtained in a matter of weeks, especially if the submission process faces no hindrance.
JustStart makes registering for GST effortless for startups, freelancers, and companies across India. Our experts make the application quick and error-free with full document support, so you get your GST number without delay or refusal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is GSTIN full form?
GSTIN stands for Goods and Services Tax Identification Number. A 15-digit unique ID is issued to each registered taxpayer under GST.
2. Is GST registration mandatory for all businesses?
No, it is not. GST registration is required only if your turnover surpasses ₹40 lakh for goods or ₹20 lakh for services, or else if you undertake any interstate sales, participate in e-commerce sales, or export.
3. Can a GST number be obtained without Aadhaar authentication?
Absolutely not, an authentication using the Aadhaar Card now has to be made. Where an OTP cannot be sent or authenticated, a biometric or offline-type authentication is required.
4. How to check if my GSTIN is active?
Navigate to the GST website and find the option to "Search Taxpayer." Then from the available menu, select "Search by GSTIN."
5. Is the GST Number the same as the GST Certificate?
No, A GST number, or GSTIN, is a 15-digit unique identification code allotted to one who has registered under the GST Act. A certificate being issued is used as proof of his/her registration and bears his/her GSTIN.
6. JustStart can also help with state-wise GST registrations, cannot it?
Absolutely! JustStart provides pan-India level GST registration and compliance services, including for multi-state and e-commerce sellers.
7. How long does it take to get the GSTIN after submitting the application?
A GSTIN is normally allotted within 15-20 calendar days from submission of the application on successful submission and completion of authentication. The timeline may suffer delays on issues concerning discrepancies in documents or if additional verification is deemed necessary.
