How to Apply for GST Number Online in 2025
If you’re planning to start your own business or practice than getting a GST number is integral requirement. In 2025, the government has made the process of apply for a new GST number easier, faster, and more accessible thanks to the digital India initiative. Whether you're looking to apply for GST with Aadhaar card, register your proprietorship, or start online selling, this guide will walk you through every step involved.
First things first - What is GST and Why Is It Important?
Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a unified tax system which was introduced in 2017. GST applies to the supply of goods and services all across the country and is aimed to simplify the complex taxation structure. Having a valid GST number (or GSTIN) is mandatory for businesses whose turnover exceeds 20 Lakhs for service provider and 40 Lakh for product supplier.
Individuals and entities who should apply for GST registration?
- Individuals and businesses with turnover above ₹40 lakhs (₹20 lakhs for services)
- E-commerce operators and sellers
- Inter-state suppliers of goods or services
- Freelancers and consultants
- Casual taxable persons and non-resident taxable persons
- Input service distributors and agents of suppliers
- Proprietors and startups aiming for B2B operations
Different types of GST Registrations –
Depending on the nature and scale of your business, you can apply for one of the following types of GST registrations:
1. Regular Taxpayer: Most common form for businesses and professionals.
2. Composition Scheme: For small businesses with turnover below ₹1.5 crore (₹75 lakhs in some states); lower compliance burden.
3. Casual Taxable Person: For seasonal or short-term business activities.
4. Non-Resident Taxable Person: For individuals or businesses with no fixed place of business in India.
5. E-commerce Operator:Required if you run a platform for online sellers.
Documents required to Apply for GST Online -
The following documents are required to register for GST number, make sure you have them handy before starting the process of GST number registration -
- PAN card of the applicant or business
- Aadhar card, it will be needed to initiate Aadhar-based authentication
- Passport-size photo of the applicant
- Business address proof (rent agreement, electricity bill, property tax receipt)
- Certificate of business registration (only if asked to furnish)
- Bank statement or cancelled cheque
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) – It is required for companies and LLPs
Hope you are aware of GST, its nature and various types of GST registrations available in India. Now we will provide you a step by step guide on how to claim your GST number.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Apply for GST Number in 2025
Step 1: Visit the Official GST Portal
Visit the official website - https://www.gst.gov.in to start the registration process. Please note there are many deceptive gst websites online, this is the official GST platform of the govt. of India.
Step 2: Select New Registration under Services
On the homepage, navigate to: `Services > Registration > New Registration`. Fill in the requisite information which would include some basic details such as your legal name, PAN, email ID, and mobile number.
Step 3: Verify via OTP and Get TRN
Once completed you will receive an OTP on your email and mobile number. Once verified, you’ll get a Temporary Reference Number (TRN). Save the TRN which will be handy to resume your application later.
Step 4: Complete the GST Application Form
Using the TRN, log into the portal and fill in detailed information about your business, promoters/owners, principal place of business, goods and services you deal in, and banking details.
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
Upload all documents mentioned above in prescribed formats. Make sure that images and scans are in a readable form and clear to avoid rejection, which could lead to unnecessary delays.
Step 6: Aadhaar Authentication (Optional but Recommended)
If you apply for GST with Aadhaar card, you can skip physical verification and speed up the process of GST registration. You will receive a link for e-KYC verification via Aadhaar-linked OTP.
Step 7: ARN Generation
Once all the steps are completed and the application is submitted successfully, you will receive an Application Reference Number (ARN). This ARN can be used to track your GST registration status.
Step 8: Get GSTIN
All your uploaded information and documents are verified. If successful your GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) will be issued. It’s a 15-digit alphanumeric number unique to your business. You will get your GST number within 3-7 days of issue.
The various entities who are required to obtain a GST number before stepping in the world of business -
Apply for GST for Online Selling or Freelancing
If you are planning to sell online via various e commerce platform like Amazon, Flipkart, or even your own website, you must apply for GST number for online selling. This is because most platforms require sellers to be GST-compliant.