CBIC Issues New Guidelines to Simplify GST Registration Process

In an effort to streamline the GST registration process and eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued new instructions aimed at speeding up the registration process and reducing difficulties faced by businesses.

Key Changes in the GST Registration Process

The new instructions are a direct response to complaints received from businesses and individuals who have faced unnecessary delays due to excessive documentation requests. According to CBIC, officers can no longer delay the registration process by repeatedly asking for additional or original documents.

What Does the New Order Say?

The CBIC has issued clear guidelines, stating that GST registration applications should be processed without delay. The agency emphasized that companies should receive their GST registration within 7 days, and businesses categorized as "risky" will be approved after 30 days, contingent upon physical verification.

This move comes as a result of complaints that officers were demanding unnecessary documents during the registration process, which caused unnecessary delays.

Guidelines on Required Documents

Under the new instructions, the CBIC has provided a list of acceptable documents that officers can request from businesses to facilitate registration. Importantly, businesses will no longer need to provide original copies of these documents.

Some of the primary documents that businesses must upload include:

• For Proof of Business Location (PPOB):
  A latest property tax receipt, municipal account copy, or the owner’s electricity bill will suffice.

• For Rent Agreement (if applicable):
  If the premises are rented, the applicant must submit a valid rent or lease agreement, along with one of the aforementioned PPOB documents.

Additionally, Udyam Certificates, MSME Certificates, Shop Establishment Certificates, and Trade Licenses should not be asked for during registration.

Efforts to Improve Efficiency

The CBIC’s latest guidelines are aimed at reducing the administrative burden and improving the ease of doing business. The directive mandates that officers should not raise unnecessary queries or request additional documents unless absolutely essential for the registration process.

Final Thoughts

With these revisions, the CBIC aims to ensure that the GST registration process is faster, more efficient, and more transparent. It is hoped that these changes will significantly reduce the compliance burden on businesses and encourage faster registration, boosting the overall business environment.