How to Register for GST on the GST Portal: Step-by-Step Process 2026

Step 1 — Generate your TRN

On the GST portal, go to Services > Registration > New Registration, select your state and PAN, and verify with an OTP to your mobile and email. This generates a Temporary Reference Number (TRN) valid for 15 days to complete the rest of the application.

Step 2 — Fill Part B and upload documents

Using your TRN, complete business details, promoter/partner details, principal place of business, bank account and goods/services (HSN/SAC) information, and upload PAN, identity/address proof, business constitution proof, and a recent utility bill or rent agreement for the registered office.

Step 3 — ARN and verification

Once submitted with e-sign or DSC, you receive an Application Reference Number (ARN), which you can track under "Track Application Status." The officer may ask for clarification (a common reason applications get stuck) or, increasingly, require Aadhaar-based biometric authentication before approval.

Step 4 — GSTIN allotment

If everything is in order, GSTIN is typically allotted within 5-7 working days of ARN generation. Errors in address proof or a mismatch between the business name across documents are the most common reasons a GST registration gets delayed or rejected.

FAQs

Do I need a business bank account before registering? No — you can add bank account details after registration, though it must be updated before you can file returns.

What if my application gets rejected? You can respond to the clarification notice within the given window, or file a fresh application if the rejection is final — either way, fixing the underlying document issue first avoids a repeat rejection.