The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a comprehensive indirect tax implemented in India to replace multiple cascading taxes levied by the Central and State Governments. GST registration is a statutory requirement for certain businesses and professionals, depending on their turnover, location, and the type of services or goods they supply. The registration process provides a GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number), which is mandatory for collecting tax and claiming input tax credit.
Types of GST
GST is divided into different categories based on the nature of the transaction and the jurisdiction in which the tax is collected. The four key types include:
Central GST (CGST): Levied by the Central Government on intra-state supplies.
State GST (SGST): Collected by the State Government on intra-state supplies.
Integrated GST (IGST): Applicable on inter-state supplies and imports, collected by the Central Government and shared with the states.
Union Territory GST (UTGST): The Union Territory Goods and Services Tax is applicable to Union Territories without legislatures, such as Chandigarh and Lakshadweep.
These components work together to ensure a seamless taxation system nationwide.
Who Should Register for GST?
GST registration is mandatory for specific categories of businesses and individuals, as per the provisions of the CGST Act. These include:
Businesses with an annual turnover above ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for special category states).
E-commerce operators.
Casual taxable persons and non-resident taxable persons.
Agents representing taxable suppliers.
Individuals supplying goods or services interstate.
Input Service Distributors (ISDs).
Certain individuals or businesses can also register voluntarily to claim input tax credit or increase business transparency.
(Source: GSTN Portal, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs – CBIC)
Types of GST Registration
GST registration varies depending on the type and duration of the taxpayer’s business activity. The major types include:
1. Regular GST Registration
For businesses operating consistently and meeting the annual turnover threshold.
2. Composition Scheme Registration
For small taxpayers whose turnover is below ₹1.5 crore (₹75 lakh for special category states). This scheme allows simplified compliance but restricts interstate trade.
3. Casual Taxable Person Registration
Applicable to individuals who occasionally supply goods or services in a taxable territory without a fixed place of business.
4. Non-resident Taxable Person Registration
For individuals or businesses based outside India who supply goods or services in India.
5. Input Service Distributor (ISD)
Entities that distribute input tax credit to different branches of the same organisation.
6. TDS and TCS Deductors
Government departments and e-commerce platforms are required to deduct or collect tax at source.
Documents Necessary for New GST Registration Online
The list of documents required for GST registration varies depending on the type of applicant, such as an individual, company, LLP, etc. The following are commonly required:
For Individuals and Sole Proprietors:
PAN card of the applicant
Aadhaar card
Photograph
Address proof of business premises (rent agreement, electricity bill, etc.)
Bank account details (cancelled cheque or bank statement)
For Companies:
PAN card of the company
Certificate of incorporation
Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
Board resolution
Identity and address proof of directors
Business address proof
Bank details
Additional Documents:
(Source: ClearTax, CBIC, GST Portal)
What are the Advantages of GST Registration?
GST registration provides several compliance and operational advantages, particularly for growing businesses:
Legally recognised business: Enables the collection of GST from customers and issue of tax invoices.
Input tax credit: Registered businesses can claim credit on taxes paid on purchases.
Interstate trade: Facilitates the legal movement of goods and services across state lines.
Enhanced credibility: Improves trust among clients and vendors.
Access to tenders and financing: Many institutions and government contracts require GST compliance.
Simplified taxation: Consolidates multiple indirect taxes into a single system.
When is GST Deregistration Possible?
GST deregistration is allowed in several circumstances. These include:
Closure of business: When the business is permanently shut down.
Turnover falls below threshold: Voluntary deregistration is allowed if turnover drops below the prescribed limit.
Change in constitution: For example, from proprietorship to partnership.
Merger or transfer: When a business merges with another or is sold/transferred.
Applications must be filed on the GST portal with valid reasons and documentation. Authorities may approve or reject based on compliance status and other criteria.
How to Apply for Cancellation of GST Registration?
The cancellation of GST registration can be initiated either by the taxpayer or the department. The process is as follows:
Steps for Online Cancellation:
Log in to the GST Portal.
Navigate to Services > Registration > Application for Cancellation of Registration.
Fill in the reason for cancellation and the effective date.
Upload the required documents, such as a closure notice or merger deed.
Submit using Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or EVC.
An acknowledgement is generated, and cancellation is processed by the GST officer.
Possible Reasons for Cancellation:
Discontinuation of business
Turnover below the threshold limit
Change in legal structure
Non-compliance or violation of GST provisions
The officer may require further clarification or reject the application based on past compliance records.
Conclusion
GST registration is a fundamental compliance requirement for individuals and businesses involved in the supply of goods or services in India. Understanding the types of registration, eligibility, documentation, and application process can help ensure that businesses remain legally compliant and avoid penalties. As GST continues to evolve through updates and clarifications by the CBIC, staying informed is essential for efficient tax administration.