1 Hour GST Registration: How to Apply, Documents Required, Rule 9A, Rule 14A and Everything You Need to Know

The Goods andServices Tax Network (GSTN) has officially rolled out a fast-track system that allows eligible taxpayers to secure a Goods and Services Tax registration within three working days, popularly known as the “1-Hour GST Registration” initiative.

Effective from 1 November 2025, the reform aims to reduce bureaucratic delay, curb fake registrations, and make compliance easier for small and medium-sized businesses.

Auto-Approval of GST Registration (Rule 9A)

Under the newly introduced Rule 9A, GST registration will now be auto-granted within three working days of application submission.

The process uses automated data analysis and risk-based algorithms, ensuring that low-risk applicants are approved without officer intervention. Only applications flagged by the risk engine will undergo manual verification or additional scrutiny.

This change drastically shortens what earlier took weeks into a near-instant process. The rule applies to all standard registrations made under Rules 8, 12, and 17 of the CGST Rules, 2017.

New Simplified Registration Option for Small Taxpayers (Rule 14A)

A parallel system has been introduced under Rule 14A, offering a simplified, optional registration route for small taxpayers whose B2B output GST liability does not exceed ₹ 2.5 lakh per month (including all tax components).

Applicants opting under Rule 14A get:

Faster, low-scrutiny registration using automated approval.

Reduced compliance burden through a pre-screened risk-based system.

This route is meant primarily for micro-businesses and service providers dealing mostly with registered buyers. However, once opted, a taxpayer cannot obtain another registration under the same PAN in the same State, a deliberate move to prevent dummy or fake registrations.

Aadhaar Verification is Now Mandatory

For both Rule 9A and 14A routes, Aadhaar authentication is compulsory.

The primary authorised signatory and at least one promoter or partner must undergo OTP-based Aadhaar verification.

Failure to complete this step automatically disqualifies the applicant from availing Rule 14A’s fast-track option. This Aadhaar linkage is designed to strengthen identity verification and block fake or multiple GST registrations.

Step-by-Step: How to Get a GST Number in 1 Hour

1. Visit the GST Portal.

2. Select Services → Registration → New Registration.

3. Fill Part A of Form GST REG-01 with basic details and validate via OTP.

4. Proceed to Part B, upload documents (PAN, Aadhaar, proof of business address, bank account, etc.).

5. Choose “Yes” for the Rule 14A option if eligible.

6. Complete Aadhaar e-verification using OTP on the linked mobile number.

7. Once verified, the system auto-processes the application within three working days.

On approval, a 15-digit GSTIN is generated, and the registration certificate (Form REG-06) is issued electronically.

Updated Forms You Should Know

To implement the new scheme, several GST forms have been updated or newly introduced:

Revised Forms: REG-01, REG-02, REG-03, REG-04, REG-05

Newly Introduced Forms:

REG-32 - Application for Withdrawal under Rule 14A

REG-33 - Order of Withdrawal Approval

These ensure transparency and traceability for opting in or out of the simplified registration system.

Want to Exit Rule 14A Later?

Taxpayers may withdraw from the simplified scheme by filing Form REG-32 but only after meeting filing conditions:

Before 1 April 2026: Minimum of 3 monthly returns must be filed.

On/After 1 April 2026: At least 1 return for the relevant tax period must be filed.

Upon review, the officer may issue:

REG-33 - Withdrawal approved, or

REG-05 - Withdrawal rejected (with reasons recorded).

Registration Auto-Approved within 3 Working Days for low-risk cases.

Simplified Option (Rule 14A) benefits small B2B taxpayers with ≤ ₹2.5 lakh monthly liability.

Aadhaar Verification made mandatory for transparency.

One Registration per State under Rule 14A curbs fake or layered entities.

Exit Mechanism via REG-32/33 ensures flexibility.

Conclusion

The new 1-Hour GST Registration framework represents one of the most significant simplifications since GST’s rollout in 2017. With automation replacing manual vetting and Aadhaar-linked identity checks sealing loopholes, it balances speed with accountability.

For small taxpayers and startups, this means less paperwork, faster market entry, and a smoother compliance path.

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