How to Check GST Registration and ARN Status

Goods and Services Tax (GST) is India's main indirect tax system. Every business that crosses the turnover limit needs GST registration. When you apply for GST registration you get a number called ARN. This number helps you track the progress of your application. Many people face confusion about how to check GST registration & ARN status. The process is simple. But you must know the correct steps. This article explains what ARN is, how to track your application, the different results statuses you may see, and what action you need to take.

What is ARN in GST?

Before checking the status it is important to understand what ARN means. ARN stands for Application Reference Number. When you submit a GST registration form on the GST portal then the system generates a 15-digit code. This is your ARN. The ARN is sent to your registered email and mobile number. You can use ARN to track your GST registration progress. It tells you whether your application is pending, under process or approved. Without ARN, you cannot know the real-time status of your GST registration.

Why is ARN Important?

ARN is proof that you have applied for GST registration. It works like an acknowledgement receipt. If any issue happens with your application then you can use the ARN as a reference. It also helps you respond quickly if the GST officer asks for more details. In short, ARN is your tracking ID for GST registration.

How to Check GST Registration and ARN Status

There are two main ways to check GST registration and ARN status. You can check without logging in or by logging in to the GST portal. Both methods are simple.

Method 1: Check Without Login

This method is useful if you do not have login details yet. You can still track the status with ARN.

Open the official GST portal at www.gst.gov.in.
On the home page, go to Services → Registration → Track Application Status.
Select Registration from the dropdown menu.
Enter your ARN or SRN. This number was sent to you by email & SMS.
Enter the captcha code shown on screen.
Click on Search.

The system will display the current status of your GST registration.

Method 2: Check With Login

If you have GST portal login credentials then you can check the status after logging in.

Visit www.gst.gov.in and log in with your username and password.
After login, go to Services → Registration → Track Application Status.
Enter your ARN or SRN and captcha.
Click Search to view status.

This method allows you to track the status and also see notices or messages from the GST officer.

What Status Results You May See

When you check ARN status, the system shows one of several results. Each status has a meaning.

Pending for Processing: This means the application is submitted. It is waiting for an officer's review.
‍Site Verification Assigned: This means the officer has assigned physical verification of your business place.
‍Site Verification Completed: The officer has visited and uploaded the report.
‍Pending for Clarification: Officer needs more documents or information from you.
‍Clarification Filed - Pending for Order: You have submitted clarification. The officer will now make a decision.
‍Clarification Not Filed - Pending for Order: You did not respond to a clarification request within the time. Application is pending decision.
‍Approved: Your GST registration is approved. GSTIN will be issued.
‍Rejected: Your GST registration application is rejected. Reasons are shared in the portal.

What To Do Based on Status

Each status requires a different action. If you know what to do it helps you avoid delays.

If it says Pending for Processing, you only need to wait. Processing time is usually 3 to 7 working days.
If it says Site Verification Assigned, make sure your business place is available for inspection. Keep documents ready.
If it says Pending for Clarification, log in to the GST portal, download the notice, and reply quickly with the required documents.
If it says Approved, download your GST certificate from the portal. Your GSTIN is now active.
If it says Rejected, check the reason carefully. Correct the mistake and apply again.

Also Read: Reasons for Cancellation of GST Registration and How to Rectify.

Processing Time for GST Registration

In most cases, GST registration takes 3 to 7 working days. If all documents are correct then the approval is quick. Though, sometimes the officer may need more time. This happens if verification is needed or if many applications are pending. If your status shows “Pending for Clarification”, it may take longer based on your response. Always check your email and portal notifications regularly. Delays often happen because applicants miss clarification notices.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Many people face rejection in GST registration. If you know the common reasons it can help avoid mistakes.

Wrong or incomplete documents: For example, unclear electricity bill or missing rent agreement.
‍Mismatch in PAN details: PAN number and applicant name do not match.
‍Incorrect business proof: Documents do not clearly show ownership or address.
‍Failure to reply to clarification: Applicant does not respond on time.
‍Wrong business category: Selecting the wrong type of taxpayer.

How to Download GST Registration Certificate

Once your status shows Approved, you can download your GST certificate.

Log in to the GST portal.
Go to Services → User Services → View/Download Certificates.
Select the GST Registration Certificate.
Click on Download.

This certificate contains GSTIN, legal name, trade name and business details.

Tips for Smooth GST Registration

To avoid problems during registration, keep these points in mind:

Make sure the PAN details are correct and updated.
Use a valid email ID and mobile number because all communication happens there.
Upload clear scanned copies of documents. Avoid blurry or cut-off files.
Check the type of taxpayer before submitting. Choose the right category.
Respond quickly if you get a clarification notice.

These simple steps help to get GST approval faster.

Conclusion

Checking GST registration and ARN status is an important step for every business applying under GST. The ARN works like a tracking number. You can use it on the GST portal to see if your application is pending, under review, approved or rejected.

The process is easy. You can check without login or with login on the official GST portal. Understanding every status helps to take the right action. If the application is approved then you can download your GST certificate immediately. If rejected then you can correct the issues and reapply.

Correct documents, proper replies, and regular tracking make GST registration easy. Every business owner should know how to check ARN and registration status. It helps avoid delays. It keeps their business compliant with GST rules.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get GST registration after applying?

It usually takes 3 to 7 working days. If the documents are correct then approval is quick. Delays may happen if clarification is needed. You should keep checking the portal & your email for updates. ‍

2. Can I check GST registration status without login?

Yes. You can track application status on the GST portal using ARN without login. This option is helpful if you have not yet created login credentials.

3. What should one do if a GST application is rejected?

Check the rejection reason on the GST portal. Correct the issues & reapply with proper documents. Make sure you avoid the same mistakes when submitting again.

4. Where will I get my ARN number?

ARN is sent to your registered email and mobile number after submitting the GST registration application on the portal. You can also note it down from the confirmation page after submission.