GST Registration for Shops: Do You Need It and How to Apply

Turnover limits

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*Limits differ in some north-eastern and hill states, and a few states use ₹20 lakh even for goods. Aggregate turnover includes all taxable, exempt and export sales under the same PAN across India. Confirm your state’s limit on the GST portal.

When registration is compulsory even below the limit

• You sell goods to another state (inter-state supply of goods). Small inter-state service providers are exempt below the limit.
• You sell goods through e-commerce platforms that collect tax at source (some relief exists for small sellers; check the current rules).
• You are liable to pay tax under reverse charge, or you are a casual taxable person or an input service distributor.

Documents you need

• PAN of the proprietor (or of the firm / company).
• Aadhaar of the proprietor or partners / directors, for Aadhaar authentication.
• Photograph of the proprietor / partners.
• Proof of business place: electricity bill, property tax receipt or rent agreement, with an NOC from the owner if rented.
• Bank account details (cancelled cheque or passbook first page), which can also be added after registration.
• Partnership deed or incorporation certificate, if not a proprietorship.

Steps to apply online

1. Go to gst.gov.in → Services → Registration → New Registration (form REG-01, Part A). Enter PAN, mobile number and email and verify the OTPs. You get a TRN.
2. Log in with the TRN and fill Part B: business details, promoter details, place of business, goods/services (HSN), and bank details. Choose composition here if you want it.
3. Upload documents and choose Aadhaar authentication. With Aadhaar authentication the application is usually processed faster; otherwise a site visit can happen.
4. Submit with EVC (OTP) or DSC. You get an ARN to track the status.
5. The officer may raise a query (REG-03); reply within the time given. On approval you get your GSTIN and the registration certificate (REG-06) on the portal.

After you get a GSTIN

• Display the GSTIN and the registration certificate at your shop.
• Start issuing tax invoices with your GSTIN from the effective date. See the GST invoice format guide.
• Decide between monthly and quarterly (QRMP) returns, and note the due dates of GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B.
• Set the right HSN code and GST rate on every product (setup guide).

Mistakes to avoid while applying

• Name or address in the application not matching PAN, Aadhaar or the address proof exactly. This is the most common reason for a query.
• Uploading an unclear or partial electricity bill or rent agreement. Upload the full document, clearly readable.
• Choosing wrong HSN or SAC codes for your main goods or services. They can be changed later, but it causes confusion.
• Using an agent’s mobile number or email instead of your own. All OTPs and notices go to these, so keep them in your control.

Adding your GSTIN in BizBahi

Save your GSTIN in BizBahi’s business settings. From then on bills are printed as Tax Invoices with CGST/SGST or IGST, and the GST reports and GSTR-1 / 3B export (paid plans and the 7-day trial) are available. Before you have a GSTIN, BizBahi prints a Bill of Supply without tax, so you can start billing and keeping stock and udhaar records from day one.

Is GST registration free?

Yes. There is no government fee to register on gst.gov.in.

How long does GST registration take?

With Aadhaar authentication and correct documents, it is often approved within about a week. A query or site verification can take longer.

Can I register voluntarily below the limit?

Yes. Voluntary registration lets you claim ITC and sell to businesses that want GST bills, but you must then file returns every period.

Can I register from home if my shop is rented?

You must register the actual place of business. For a rented shop, upload the rent agreement and an NOC from the owner.