Step-by-Step Process: How to Apply for GST Registration Online in 2025
I am breaking down the entire process in a teacher-style way so that you can apply yourself without any confusion.
Step 1: Go to GST Portal
Step 2: Fill in Basic Details
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Legal Name of Business (according to PAN)
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PAN Number
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Email ID & Mobile Number (OTP will be received for verification)
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After submit, Temporary Reference Number (TRN) will be received.
Step 3: Login with TRN
Login with TRN and start filling the remaining form.
Step 4: Fill Business Details
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Business Address
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Nature of Business (Service/Trading/Manufacturing)
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Bank Account Details
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Authorized Signatory Details
Step 5: Upload Documents
All required documents (list given below) have to be uploaded in PDF/JPEG format.
Step 6: Submit with Digital Signature
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Proprietorship: EVC (OTP) can also be done.
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Companies: DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) is mandatory.
Step 7: ARN Generation
After submitting the application, you will get Acknowledgment Reference Number (ARN).
Step 8: GSTIN Approval
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GSTIN certificate is sent to your email/mobile within 3-7 days.
5 Most Trusted CA Websites in India — for GST, ITR, and Company Registration (2025)
Legal or Technical Requirements
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PAN Card is Mandatory.
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Aadhaar Authentication is compulsory as per 2025 rules.
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Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for companies.
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Business Proof like rent agreement or electricity bill.
Documents Required for GST Registration
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|
Documents |
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Individual/Proprietor |
PAN, Aadhaar, Bank Statement, Photo |
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Partnership |
PAN of Firm, Partnership Deed, Address Proof |
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Company |
PAN, MOA/AOA, Certificate of Incorporation, Board Resolution |
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All Cases |
Business Address Proof, Bank Account Proof |
Pro Tip: Documents scan should be clear, uploading blurred documents may result in rejection of the application.
Cost, Time, and Effort Breakdown
|
Factor |
Details |
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Government Fees |
₹0 (Free) |
|
Professional Fees |
₹499 – ₹3000 (Depends on CA or Service Provider) |
|
Time Required |
3–7 working days |
|
Effort Level |
Medium |
Pros and Cons of GST Registration
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Pros |
Cons |
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Legal Compliance |
Regular GST Return Filing Compulsory |
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Input Tax Credit |
Complexity for Small Business |
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Business Growth Opportunities |
Late Filing Penalties |
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Trust & Credibility |
Accounting System Required |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Wrong Business Category: Service vs Trading confusion.
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Incorrect Address Proof Upload: Mismatch leads to rejection.
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Not Using Professional Help: Most of the mistakes are easily avoided by professionals.
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Ignoring Aadhaar Authentication: This is mandatory from 2025.
Pro Tips & Expert Insights
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Always apply using updated browser Google Chrome.
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Keep document sizes less than 1 MB for faster upload.
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Once the application is submitted, keep checking ARN status daily.
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You can also get this work done for free by visiting GST Seva Kendra if you have any problem in doing it online.
Real-Life Example / Case Study
Ritu Sharma, Freelance Graphic Designer:
Ritu ji initially felt that service provider does not need GST. But when his invoices started going up to ₹20 lakh+, he required GST. I applied for GST online for ₹1500 from my accountant, got GSTIN in 5 days. Today their clients take their professionalism seriously just because they give GST invoice.
2025 and Beyond: Latest Rules / Trends / Updates
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Aadhaar OTP authentication is mandatory in all cases from 2025.
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The scope of physical verification for GST registration has reduced.
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Quarterly return filing (QRMP) continues for small businesses.
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Artificial Intelligence is being used for GST fraud detection.
Actionable Checklist
✅ Keep PAN, Aadhaar ready
✅ Mobile and Email OTP verified
✅ Arrange Business Address Proof
✅ Generate TRN and submit the application.
✅ Check ARN status regularly
✅ GST Certificate can be printed and kept in the office.
FAQs
Q1. How much time does it take to do GST registration?
Normally 3–7 working days, if all documents are correct.
Q2. Is GST registration online free or paid?
Government fee is ₹0. Professional help may cost ₹499–₹3000.
Q3. Is Aadhaar OTP mandatory?
Yes, Aadhaar OTP authentication has become compulsory from 2025.
Q4. Does proprietorship business also have to take GST?
If turnover is ₹20 lakh+ (service) or ₹40 lakh+ (trading), then yes.
Q5. How will I get GST registration certificate?
You can download it via email or from GST portal after approval.
Q6. In which case do you need Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
It is mandatory for companies or LLP.
Q7. Can business be run without GST?
No, without applicable turnover, the business is considered illegal without the applicable numbers.