Starting or running a business in India in 2025 means understanding GST registration. Whether you are a freelancer, small shop owner, online seller, or startup founder, GST registration is often mandatory and plays a key role in running your business legally.
The good news is that the GST registration process is now fully online, simpler, and mostly paperless.
What Is GST Registration?
GST (Goods and Services Tax) registration is the process by which a business gets registered under the GST law and receives a unique GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number).
Once registered, a business can:
Collect GST from customers
Claim input tax credit (ITC)
Sell goods and services legally across states
Work with large companies and government departments
Who Needs GST Registration in 2025?
You must register for GST if:
Your annual turnover exceeds:
₹40 lakh (goods)
₹20 lakh (services)
You sell goods or services online (Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, etc.)
You do inter-state business
You are a freelancer or consultant providing taxable services
You run an e-commerce platform or are a seller on one
You want to voluntarily register to build business credibility
Types of GST Registration
Regular GST Registration – for normal taxpayers
Composition Scheme – for small businesses with lower tax rates
Casual Taxable Person – for temporary businesses
Non-Resident Taxable Person – for foreign entities
Most small businesses opt for Regular GST Registration.
Documents Required for GST Registration (2025)
The documents depend on your business type, but generally include:
For Individual / Proprietorship
PAN card of the applicant
Aadhaar card
Passport-size photograph
Bank account details (passbook or cancelled cheque)
Address proof of business place
For Partnership / Company / LLP
PAN of firm or company
Partnership deed / Certificate of incorporation
Aadhaar and PAN of partners/directors
Bank details
Address proof of registered office
Address Proof Can Be:
Electricity bill
Rent agreement
Property tax receipt
How to Apply for GST Registration Online (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit the GST Portal
Step 2: Click on “Register Now”
Go to Services → Registration → New Registration
Step 3: Fill Basic Details
PAN
Mobile number
Email ID
State and district
Step 4: OTP Verification
Verify mobile and email via OTP
Step 5: Complete Application (Part B)
Enter business details
Upload documents
Provide bank account information
Step 6: Submit Application
Use Aadhaar authentication or EVC
After submission, you will receive an Application Reference Number (ARN).
GST Registration Approval Time
Usually approved within 3–7 working days
In some cases, the officer may ask for clarification
Once approved, you will receive your GSTIN and certificate online
How to Download GST Registration Certificate
1. Log in to GST portal
2. Go to Services → User Services → View/Download Certificate
3. Download GST certificate in PDF format
Is GST Registration Free?
Yes.
GST registration is completely free on the government portal.
If someone charges you, they are charging for professional service, not government fees.
Benefits of GST Registration
Legal recognition of your business
Ability to claim input tax credit
Easier to get business loans
Better trust with clients and vendors
Mandatory for selling on online platforms