GST Biometric Authentication: A Game-Changer for Registration
To enhance ease of doing business, the Tax Administration has introduced a new facility allowing promoters and directors of businesses applying for Goods & Services Tax (GST) registration to complete biometric authentication in their home state.
This change eliminates the requirement to travel to a jurisdictional GST Suvidha Kendra (GSK) and provides greater flexibility in the GST registration process. However, the facility is not yet available in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Sikkim.
What Has Changed?
Previously, new GST applicants who opted for Aadhaar authentication had two options:
- OTP Verification
- Biometric Authentication at a designated GSK
Now, certain promoters and directors can undergo biometric authentication at any GSK within their home state instead of their designated jurisdictional GSK.
Who Can Benefit from This New Facility?
- Public Limited Company Promoters/Directors
- Private Limited Company Promoters/Directors
- Unlimited Company Promoters/Directors
- Foreign Company Promoters/Directors
If a new GST registration application is selected for biometric authentication, the applicant will receive an intimation email with the option to choose a GSK in their home state..
How to Complete Biometric Authentication?
Step-by-Step Process
- Receive Intimation Email: If biometric authentication is required, GSTN will send an email notification.
- Select a GSK: Choose any available GST Suvidha Kendra (GSK) within your home state using the link in the email.
- Confirm the Slot: A confirmation email will be sent with a slot booking link.
- Visit the Selected GSK: Attend your scheduled appointment for photo capture and biometric authentication.
- Completion: Once biometric authentication is successfully completed, the GST registration process proceeds smoothly.
Important Considerations
- One-Time Selection: The chosen GSK in the home state cannot be changed once selected.
- Pre-Verification for PAS: The Primary Authorized Signatory (PAS) must visit the designated jurisdictional GSK for document verification.
- Already Verified Individuals: If a promoter/director has previously completed biometric authentication, they do not need to repeat the process.
- Optional Feature: Choosing a home-state GSK is not mandatory—applicants may still visit their jurisdictional GSK if preferred.
Why This Matters for Businesses
This policy update streamlines GST registration, reducing travel requirements and making compliance easier for businesses. Promoters and directors can now complete authentication without disrupting their business operations.
Additionally, this change aligns with India’s push for digital and business-friendly reforms, improving ease of compliance while maintaining security and verification standards.
Key Takeaways for Business Owners and Professionals
- More Flexibility: Promoters/Directors can authenticate in their home state.
- Time-Saving: Eliminates the need for long-distance travel to jurisdictional GSKs.
- Simplified Compliance: Reduces bureaucratic hurdles for GST registration.
- Enhanced Security: Ensures accurate identity verification while facilitating business growth.
- Not Mandatory: Businesses can still choose jurisdictional GSKs if needed.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of home-state biometric authentication for GST registration is a major step forward in making business compliance more convenient. By allowing flexibility in the authentication process, India’s tax administration is supporting a smoother, more accessible GST registration experience.
Business owners, tax professionals, and GST applicants should stay updated with these policy changes to take full advantage of the new streamlined process.