GST Registration Fees: Everything You Need to Know Before Applying

GST registration is the process by which a business obtains a unique GST Identification Number (GSTIN) from the government.

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a unified tax system introduced to replace multiple indirect taxes in India. It simplifies taxation by integrating central and state taxes into a single framework. Businesses exceeding the prescribed GST registration limit must register to comply with tax regulations. GST registration is mandatory for traders, service providers, and e-commerce sellers meeting the threshold. Many business owners often worry about GST registration fees and whether the government charges any amount for the process. However, GST registration through the official portal is completely free, though professionals may charge service fees for assistance. Understanding the registration process helps businesses stay compliant and avoid penalties.

What is GST Registration?

GST registration is the process by which a business obtains a unique GST Identification Number (GSTIN) from the government. This registration is mandatory for businesses that exceed the GST threshold limit and engage in taxable supply.

After registering, businesses must collect GST from their customers and remit it to the government. They can also claim the Input Tax Credit (ITC) on GST paid for purchases, reducing their overall tax liability.

Who Needs GST Registration?

GST registration is mandatory for:

1. Businesses with a turnover exceeding:

• ₹40 lakh for goods (₹20 lakh in special category states)
• ₹20 lakh for services (₹10 lakh in special category states)

2. Inter-state suppliers: – Businesses supplying goods or services across state borders.

3. E-commerce sellers and aggregators: Online businesses selling through platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, or their own websites.

4. Casual taxable people: Individuals or businesses engaged in seasonal or temporary supply of goods or services.

5. Non-resident taxable persons: Foreign businesses supplying goods/services in India.

6. Businesses under Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM): Entities are required to pay GST on purchases instead of the seller.

GST Registration Fees: Is There a Government Charge?

One of the most common questions business owners ask is: How much are GST registration fees?

Government Fees for GST Registration

The GST registration fees charged by the government is ₹0. GST registration is completely free if done through the official government portal (www.gst.gov.in).

Professional Fees for GST Registration

While government registration is free, businesses often seek professional assistance from tax consultants or Chartered Accountants. Here’s what professionals may charge for GST registration:

Service Type	Estimated Cost
Basic GST Registration	₹500 – ₹2,000
GST Registration with Consultation	₹3,000 – ₹5,000
GST Registration for LLP Incorporation	₹5,000 – ₹10,000

Hiring a professional ensures error-free registration and timely approval. However, small businesses can complete online GST registration independently.

Step-by-Step Process for Online GST Registration

The GST registration process is 100% online and can be completed in a few simple steps:

Step 1: Visit the GST Portal

Go to the official GST portal: www.gst.gov.in – and click on “Register Now” under the “Taxpayers” section.

Step 2: Fill in Basic Details

Provide:

• Business name (as per PAN)
• PAN number
• Mobile number and email ID (for OTP verification)
• State of business operation

Step 3: Provide Business Details

• Legal name of the business
• Type of business (Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, or Private Limited)
• Business address and bank details

Step 4: Upload GST Registration Documents

Submit scanned copies of the required GST registration documents (detailed below).

Step 5: Verification & Approval

The GST officer will verify your details. If everything is in order, the officer will approve your registration, and you will receive your GSTIN (GST Identification Number) within 7-10 working days.

Documents Required for GST Registration

To complete online GST registration, the following documents are required:

For Sole Proprietorship

• PAN and Aadhaar card of the proprietor
• Address proof (electricity bill, rent agreement, or ownership document)
• Bank account statement or canceled cheque

For LLP Registration & Incorporation

• PAN card of the LLP
• LLP agreement
• Address proof of the LLP office
• Bank account details

For Private Limited Companies

• PAN card of the company and directors
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA & AoA)
• Address proof of the business location
• Board resolution for GST registration

GST Registration Limit for Businesses

GST registration is mandatory if a business exceeds the following turnover limits:

Business Category	Normal States (₹)	Special Category States (₹)
Goods Suppliers	40 lakhs	20 lakhs
Service Providers	20 lakhs	10 lakhs
E-commerce Sellers	No threshold	No threshold
Inter-State Suppliers	No threshold	No threshold

Special category states include the North-Eastern states, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, where the threshold is lower.

How to Check GST Registration Status?

Once you apply for GST, you can track the GST registration status online:

Steps to Check GST Registration Status

• Visit the GST portal: www.gst.gov.in.
• Click on “Track Application Status” under the “Services” tab.
• Enter the ARN (Application Reference Number) received after submission.
• The portal will display the status of your GST application.

Most applications are processed within 7-10 working days, but delays can occur if additional verification is required.

GST Cancellation Process: How to Cancel GST Registration?

If a business stops operations or no longer meets the GST registration limit, it can apply for cancellation of GST registration.

Who Can Apply for GST Cancellation?

• Businesses that cease operations
• Businesses that fall below the threshold limit
• Businesses undergoing LLP incorporation closure
• Voluntary registrants who no longer wish to be under GST

Steps to Cancel GST Registration

1. Log in to the GST Portal and go to “Services” > “Registration” > “Application for Cancellation of Registration.”

2. Provide Reason for Cancellation, such as business closure or turnover below threshold.

3. Submit Final GST Returns to settle any outstanding tax liabilities.

4. Verification by GST Officer – If all details are correct, GST registration will be canceled within 30 days.

GST for LLP Registration: Special Considerations

LLP registration requires GST registration if:

• The annual turnover exceeds the GST registration limit.
• The LLP is engaged in inter-state trade.
• LLP is an e-commerce seller.

For LLPs, GST registration is linked to the firm's PAN, and all tax filings must be done under the LLP’s GSTIN.

Conclusion

GST registration is essential for businesses in India to stay tax compliant. While the government does not charge any GST registration fees, many businesses opt for professional assistance to ensure a hassle-free process. Understanding the GST registration limit, the necessary GST registration documents, and the GST cancellation process are crucial for smooth tax compliance. Proper registration helps businesses claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) and avoid penalties. Whether you're a startup or an established firm, knowing the GST process ensures you meet all legal requirements efficiently.