If you’re starting a business or are a freelancer with income exceeding ₹20 lakh (or ₹10 lakh for NE states), obtaining a GST number is mandatory. In this blog, we’ll explain in simple Hinglish how to apply for a GST number online in 2025, what documents are required, the fees involved, and how to check your registration status.
Page Contents
- What is a GSTIN? (What is a GST Number?)
- How to Apply Online for a GST Number in 2025
- GST Registration Documents (2025 Updated List)
- GST Registration Fees in 2025
- How to Login to GST?
- How to Download a GST Registration Certificate?
- How to Check GST Registration Status?
- FAQs on GST Number Registration
- Summary
- Conclusion
What is a GSTIN? (What is a GST Number?)
A GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) is a 15-digit unique number assigned to every registered business under GST law.
You need this number for:
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Creating invoices
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Filing GST
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Claiming input tax credit
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Legal proof of your business
How to Apply Online for a GST Number in 2025
To obtain a GSTIN, you must apply online on the GST portal.
Step-by-Step Process:
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Visit the GST Portal
Go to: https://www.gst.gov.in -
Navigate to Registration
Go to Services → Registration → New Registration -
Fill in Basic Details
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Type of taxpayer (Individual, Proprietor, Company, Partnership)
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State and district
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Legal name (as per PAN)
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Email ID and mobile number (for OTP verification)
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OTP Verification
You will receive separate OTPs on your mobile and email.
After verification, you will get a Temporary Reference Number (TRN). -
Login Using TRN
Login with your TRN and complete the remaining form. -
Upload Required Documents (listed below)
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Submit Application
Submit using DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) or EVC (Electronic Verification Code). -
ARN Generated
After submission, an Application Reference Number (ARN) is generated.
You can use this to check the status of your registration.

GST Registration Documents (2025 Updated List)
For Proprietorship:
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PAN card of owner
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Aadhaar card
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Photograph
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Business address proof (Rent agreement + electricity bill / property tax)
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Bank account proof (cancelled cheque or bank statement)
For Partnership Firm:
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PAN card of firm
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Partnership deed
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Aadhaar & PAN of partners
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Business address proof
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Authorization letter
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Bank proof
For Pvt. Ltd. / LLP:
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Company PAN card
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Incorporation certificate
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MOA & AOA / LLP agreement
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Director/Partner Aadhaar + PAN
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Address proof
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Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
GST Registration Fees in 2025
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Government Fees: None – GST registration is 100% free on the official GST portal.
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Through CA or Service Provider: ₹500–₹2,000 may be charged for services.
How to Login to GST?
Once you receive your GSTIN, login as follows:
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Visit https://www.gst.gov.in
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Click on Login
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Enter:
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Username (set during registration)
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Password
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Captcha
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After login, you can file returns, view invoices, and download certificates.
How to Download a GST Registration Certificate?
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Login to the GST portal
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Go to Services → User Services → View/Download Certificate
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Click Download PDF
This certificate proves that your business is GST registered.
How to Check GST Registration Status?
If you have applied for registration and received an ARN:
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Visit https://www.gst.gov.in
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Go to Services → Registration → Track Application Status
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Enter the ARN number
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Status will be displayed as: Pending / Approved / RejectedGST Registration Search – Checking Someone Else’s GSTIN
You can verify the GST number of any business:
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Visit https://www.gst.gov.in
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Click on Search Taxpayer
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Enter one of the following:
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GSTIN number
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PAN number
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Business name
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This tool shows whether the GSTIN is active or not.
FAQs on GST Number Registration
Q1. How many days does it take to receive a GST number?
Normally, 3–7 working days.
Q2. Should freelancers claim GST?
Yes, if income is ₹20 lakh+ (₹10 lakh in NE states), it is mandatory.
Q3. Can a GSTIN be obtained without a business?
No, valid business proof is required.
Q4. Can GST be claimed from a home address?
Yes, if there is a valid rent agreement or ownership proof..
Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Portal | gst.gov.in |
| Fees | Free (govt), ₹500–2000 (CA charges) |
| Documents | PAN, Aadhaar, Address, Bank proof |
| Time | 3–7 working days |
| Certificate | Download from portal |
| Status Check | Using ARN |
Conclusion
The GST registration process has become even smoother in 2025. If you are a business owner, freelancer, seller, or service provider, apply for a GST number online without delay. Being legal today builds trust—and also provides valuable tax benefits.

