Biometric-Based Aadhaar Authentication and Document Verification for GST Registration Applicants of Gujarat and Puducherry

In a recent development, the GSTN has launched a new functionality on the common portal that allows applicants for GST registration in Gujarat and Puducherry to undergo biometric-based Aadhaar authentication and document verification. This functionality was first launched in Puducherry on August 30, 2023, and will be rolled out in Gujarat on November 7, 2023.

Key Points to Keep in Mind

Here are some key points to keep in mind during the registration process:

• Rule 8 of the CGST Rules, 2017 has been amended to provide that an applicant can be identified on the common portal, based on data analysis and risk parameters for Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication and taking photograph of the applicant along with the verification of the original copy of the documents uploaded with the application.
• The said functionality now also provides for the document verification and appointment booking process. After the submission of the application in Form GST REG-01, the applicant will receive either of the following links in the e-mail:
  • A Link for OTP-based Aadhaar Authentication OR
  • A link for booking an appointment with a message to visit a GST Suvidha Kendra (GSK) along with the details of the GSK and jurisdiction, for Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication and document verification (the intimation e-mail)
• If the applicant receives the link for OTP-based Aadhaar Authentication as mentioned in point 3(a), she/he can proceed with the application as per the existing process.
• However, if the applicant receives the link as mentioned in point 3(b), she/he will be required to book the appointment to visit the designated GSK, using the link provided in the e-mail. Once the applicant gets the confirmation of appointment through e-mail (the appointment confirmation e-mail), she/he will be able to visit the designated GSK as per the chosen schedule.
• At the time of the visit of GSK, the applicant is required to carry the following details.
  • a copy (hard/soft) of the appointment confirmation e-mail
  • the details of jurisdiction as mentioned in the intimation e-mail
  • Aadhaar Number
  • the original documents that were uploaded with the application, as communicated by the intimation e-mail.
• The biometric authentication and document verification will be done at the GSK, for all the required individuals as per the GST application Form REG-01.
• The applicant is required to choose an appointment for the biometric verification during the maximum permissible period for the application as indicated in the intimation e-mail. In such cases, ARNs will be generated once the Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication process and document verification are completed.
• The feature of booking an appointment to visit a designated GSK is currently available for the applicants of the Gujarat State and it will be extended to the other notified States/UTs shortly.
• The operation days and hours of GSKs will be as per the guidelines provided by the administration in your respective state.

Reference link: https://www.gst.gov.in/newsandupdates/read/611

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Please consult with a qualified tax professional for specific guidance.

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