The Goods and Services Tax (GST) has transformed India’s indirect tax system by standardizing a multitude of taxes into one system. Businesses with a turnover exceeding certain limits are required to register under GST, and upon registration, they receive a unique GST Identification Number (GSTIN). Many taxpayers, however, after submitting the application for GST registration, would like to know whether their application has been approved, is pending, or is missing information, and they prefer to do this online.
Knowing how to view your GST registration status online is important so that you are informed and will take action in a timely manner as necessary. In this blog, we will show you how taxpayers can check their registration application status online step by step, and clarify the status indicators.
What is the GST Registration Status?
Your GST registration status is the current status of your application for registration with the tax authorities. In addition to indicating whether the application is under processing, and if there are documents pending or rejected, the status indicates that your GST Identification Number (GSTIN) has been issued, and the application is complete. The registration status is important because it provides transparency for the taxpayer and indicates what the current status of their application is from the comfort of their own home without needing to visit government offices.
What do You Need to Check Your GST Registration Status?
To track your GST registration status, you will require the Application Reference Number. The ARN is a unique 15-digit number generated by the GST Portal once you submit your registration application. It is sent to your registered email and mobile number instantly after applying, serving as a tracking ID for your request.
If you have applied through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal, you might receive a Service Request Number (SRN) instead.
Step-By-Step Guide to Check GST Registration Status Online
1. Visit the Official GST Portal
Open your internet browser and go to the official GST website: www.gst.gov.in. Avoid unofficial sites to prevent fraud.
2. Navigate to the ‘Track Application Status’ Page
On the homepage, hover over the ‘Services’ tab in the menu, then click on ‘Registration’ from the dropdown options. Select the ‘Track Application Status’ link to proceed.
3. Select ‘Registration’ as the Module
In the status tracking page, you will see a dropdown called ‘Select Module.’ Choose ‘Registration’ to search for your GST registration application.
4. Enter Your ARN or SRN
Input the 15-digit Application Reference Number that you received after submitting your GST registration application. If you applied through MCA, enter your SRN instead.
5. Fill in the Captcha
Enter the captcha code as displayed on screen to verify you are a human user.
6. Click ‘Search’
After entering all details correctly, click the ‘Search’ button.
7. View the Status
The portal will display your current application status with a detailed log of all events related to your GST registration process.
Checking GST Registration Status After Logging In
If you already have login credentials for the GST portal (typically after registration), you can also track your application status by –
- Log in at www.gst.gov.in using your username and password.
- Click on the ‘Services’ tab on your dashboard.
- Selecting ‘Track Application Status.’
- Enter your ARN/SRN or application submission date.
- Viewing the detailed progress report.
This method provides more comprehensive information and access to additional services.
Common Status Indicators and Their Meanings
When you check your GST application status online, you may encounter the following statuses –
- Pending for Processing – Your application was received and is waiting for an officer to review.
- Pending for Clarification – The tax authority requires additional documents or clarification.
- Clarification Filed, Pending for Order – You have submitted the clarifications; the application is awaiting a decision.
- Approved – Your registration is successful, and your GSTIN and login details will be provided.
- Rejected – The application has been rejected due to discrepancies, errors/noncompliance. Please check the reason for the rejection and apply again if necessary.
- Withdrawn – The application has been withdrawn voluntarily or for another reason.
Tips When Checking Your GST Registration Status
- Always use the official GST portal to ensure you are safe from phishing scams.
- Always keep your ARN or SRN available for quick and easy tracking.
- When clarification is requested, it is best to respond right away to avoid extended review of the application or rejection.
- In case of pending or rejection, check the exact reason on the portal and correct the errors before reapplying.
- Regularly check your registered email and mobile for alerts from GST authorities.
What to Do After GST Registration Approval?
Once your GST registration is approved –
- Download your GST registration certificate from the GST portal.
- Activate your GSTIN by logging into your account.
- Ensure you know the due dates for GST returns and maintain proper records.
- Use your GSTIN for all business invoices and official transactions.
Conclusion
Keeping track of your GST registration application status online is a simple but important aspect of GST compliance. By taking the straightforward steps outlined above, you will be informed about the application progress and be able to take action quickly, if needed. Whether you are a start-up or an already established entity extending the use of GST for your business, tracking your application status will prevent unnecessary delays, achieve efficiencies in compliance, and help facilitate your entry into India’s single tax system.
Always rely on the official GST portal for up-to-date application status. If you face any issues, take the appropriate action ASAP to ensure a successful online GST registration and avoid any disruption to your business.
