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GST Registration for eCommerce Business?

Updated on: 07 Feb, 2025 02:51 PM

All e-commerce businesses are required to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India even if their annual turnover is less than the threshold of 40 lakh (Threshold is 20 lakh for the business operating in special categories). Getting registered with GST is mandatory for e-commerce operators, including those who do not have physical presence or outlet in India. Each e-commerce operator is provided with a unique Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) upon GST registration. GSTIN must be prominently displayed on all transactions and invoices to ensure transparency and compliance with the GST laws in India.

What is GST registration?

GST registration involves a business obtaining a unique 15 digit GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number). This GSTIN is essential for legally collecting and remitting Goods and Services Tax to the government. For e-commerce businesses, GST registration is mandatory, a requirement that ensures compliance with tax laws and facilitates smooth business operations.


Why is GST registration mandatory for all e-commerce operators?

Understanding the importance of GST for Indian e-commerce businesses requires grasping its fundamental principles and impact. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a destination-based tax, meaning it's levied at the point of consumption rather than the point of origin. This system replaced the previous tax regime, which involved multiple cascading taxes that often resulted in inefficiencies. GST registration is particularly crucial for e-commerce businesses due to the sector's rapid growth and broad reach. The GST foundation mandates registration for e-commerce operators and businesses whose annual turnover exceeds a specific threshold, which varies depending on the business type and the state. This requirement ensures that all participants in the e-commerce ecosystem adhere to uniform tax regulations, fostering fair competition and greater accountability in tax compliance.


GST requirements for e-commerce operators

Here are the GST requirements for e-commerce businesses:

  • GST Registration: E-commerce sellers must register for GST, even if their annual turnover is below ₹40 lakhs (₹20 lakhs for special category states). Registered sellers must display their GST registration number on their website and all invoices.
  • GST Collection and Payment: E-commerce sellers are responsible for collecting and paying GST on their sales. They must charge GST on their products and remit the collected amount to the government within the stipulated timeframe. The applicable GST rate depends on the type of products sold and the nature of the business.
  • GST Return Filing: E-commerce sellers must regularly file GST returns detailing their sales, purchases, and tax liability. The frequency of filing depends on their turnover. They are required to file GSTR-1, which reports outward supplies, and GSTR-3B, which summarizes sales, purchases, and tax liability.
  • Tax Collected at Source (TCS): E-commerce operators are required to collect TCS at a rate of 1% from sellers on taxable supplies made through their platforms. This TCS must be deposited with the government and reported in the operator's GSTR-8 return.

Steps to Obtain GST Registration for E-Commerce Businesses

The GST registration process for e-commerce sellers involves these steps:

  • Go to the official portal of GST at www.gst.gov.in.
  • Click on the "Services" on the homepage, then select "Registration."
  • Fill out the required information, including your PAN, email ID, mobile number, and business state.
  • Upload required documents such as your PAN card, Aadhaar card, bank statement, and proof of address.
  • After completing all fields and uploading documents, submit your application.
  • GST authorities will examine your application and may request additional information or documents if needed.
  • Upon approval, you will receive your GST registration certificate.

After registration, e-commerce sellers must comply with all GST regulations, including GST collection and payment, filing GST returns, and adhering to TCS (Tax Collected at Source) requirements.

Are you an e-commerce business owner looking to register for GST? Tax2win makes the process simple, fast, and hassle-free with expert guidance at every step.

Why Choose Tax2win for GST Registration?

  • Expert Consultation – Tailored solutions based on your business needs
  • Seamless Process – Quick and efficient GST registration
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Frequently Asked Questions

Q- Who needs to register for GST?

Regular eCommerce businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹40 lakhs (₹20 lakhs for some states).

  • eCommerce operators supplying through an agent, regardless of turnover.
  • OIDAR (Online Information and Database Access or Retrieval) services, regardless of turnover.

Q- What is Tax Collected at Source (TCS)?

E-commerce operators are mandated to deduct 1% TCS on the net taxable value of collections made through their platforms. This collected amount is later adjusted against the seller’s final GST liability.


Q- When can an eCommerce business cancel GST registration?

  • Business Closure
  • Transfer of Business
  • Change in Constitution
  • Annual turnover falls below the threshold limit.

Q- What is the fee for GST registration?

The base fee for GST registration is ₹100, but additional charges may vary depending on the business type and category.


Q- Is GST registration mandatory for all eCommerce businesses in India?

GST registration is required for eCommerce operators only if their annual turnover surpasses the specified threshold. However, certain eCommerce businesses, such as those selling through agents or offering OIDAR services, must register regardless of turnover.


Q- How long does it take to get a GST registration certificate?

GST registration is usually processed within 3 to 7 working days, provided the application is complete and error-free.


CA Abhishek Soni

CA Abhishek Soni
Founder & CEO at Tax2win

Abhishek Soni is a Chartered Accountant by profession and an entrepreneur by passion. He has wide industry experience in telecom, retail, manufacturing, and entertainment and has handled various national and international assignments. He is the co-founder and CEO of Tax2win.in. Tax2win, an online tax filing platform, provides the easiest way to e-file your Income Tax Return in India. Through Tax2win.in, Abhishek endeavors to revolutionize how individuals file their income tax returns, offering a seamless and user-friendly experience.