How to Get GST Number for Online Business 2025 Registration

How to Get GST Number for Online Business (Step-by-Step Guide)

A GSTIN is required if you run an online business in India, whether on Amazon, Shopify, Instagram, or your own website. Without GSTIN, selling, collecting tax, or claiming GST input credits is not possible.

So, let’s understand how to get a GST number for your online business, the GST registration documents list you’ll need, and how to apply GSTIN online for free.

What Is GSTIN and Why Do You Need It?

A GST number (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) is a unique 15-digit ID that the Indian government assigns to every registered business. It helps track tax payments, returns, and compliance.

GSTIN is structured in the following way:
Example- 22-HGIEO7632M-5-Z-1

• First 2 digits: State code (e.g., 22 for Chhattisgarh)
• Next 10 digits: PAN number of the applicant
• 13th digit: Entity code (number of registrations under same PAN)
• 14th digit: Default letter “Z”
• 15th digit: Checksum digit (used for error detection)

When your online sales exceed ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for service providers), or if you sell through e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, or Shopify, GST registration becomes mandatory, even if you don’t cross the turnover limit.

Step-by-Step Guide to get a GST Number Quickly and Easily

Let’s go through the free GST number registration online process.

Step 1: Visit the Official GST Portal

Go to https://www.gst.gov.in. Click on Services → Registration → New Registration.

Step 2: Fill in Basic Details

You’ll need to enter from GST registration documents list for India:

• Business type (proprietor, partnership, LLP, etc.)
• State and district
• Legal name of business (as per PAN)
• PAN number
• Email ID and mobile number
• You’ll receive an OTP for verification.

Step 3: Get the Temporary Reference Number (TRN)

After verification, you’ll receive a TRN on your registered email and phone. Use this to continue your registration.

Step 4: Log in with TRN and Fill the Application Form (Part B)

Under “Services → Registration → New Registration,” choose Temporary Reference Number (TRN) and log in.

Then, enter GST registration document details:

• Business details (trade name, constitution, date of commencement)
• Promoter/partner information
• Place of business (principal and additional)
• Bank account details (upload statement or cancelled cheque)
• Goods and Services list (HSN/SAC codes)
• Verification and declaration

Step 5: Upload GST Registration Documents List in India

Here’s what you’ll need:

• PAN card of business owner
• Aadhaar card
• Proof of business address (rent agreement, electricity bill, etc.)
• Bank statement/cancelled cheque
• Passport-sized photo
• Digital signature (if applicable)

Step 6: Submit Application with Verification

Once everything’s filled and documents uploaded, verify using:

Aadhaar OTP, or DSC (Digital Signature Certificate), or EVC (Electronic Verification Code). Then, you’ll receive an Application Reference Number (ARN) for tracking.

Step 7: GST Approval and Certificate

The GST officer reviews your application. If all is correct, your GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) is issued within 3–7 working days.

You can download the GST Registration Certificate directly from the portal.

Benefits of Having a GST Number

• Lets you legally sell on e-commerce sites
• Helps build business credibility
• Enables GST input tax credit on business expenses
• Makes you compliant and avoids penalties

How to Apply for GST Number Online for Free

Applying for a GST number online is completely free if you do it yourself on the GST portal. You only pay if you hire a CA or intermediary for assistance.

Here’s how to apply for GST number online for free:

• Go directly to gst.gov.in
• Follow the step-by-step process above
• Upload valid documents
• Verify with Aadhaar OTP
• Track your application status using ARN

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for GST Number Online

To prevent the GST number rejection and delays, make sure the following GSTIN registration is online:

• Entering a wrong PAN or business name (should match exactly).
• Uploading unclear GST documents.
• Missing the Aadhaar e-verification step.
• Using a personal instead of a business email ID.
• Choosing the wrong business category.

How to Check GST Application Status

You can check your GST application status here:

Go to gst.gov.in
Click Services → Registration → Track Application Status → Enter your ARN number to check your GSTIN application status.

Final Note on Applying GST Number Online for Free

Getting a GST number for your online business is simple, quick, and completely free if you do it yourself. It opens doors to selling on major platforms, claiming input tax credits, and running your business legally.

FAQs About Getting a GST Number for Online Business