Any business in Karnataka that crosses the GST turnover threshold, or falls under a mandatory category, must register under the Goods and Services Tax and obtain a GSTIN. The first two digits of every GSTIN issued in Karnataka are 29 — the state's GST code.
This guide explains who must register for GST in Karnataka, the documents required, and the exact online process on the GST portal.
What is GST Registration in Karnataka?
GST registration gives a business a 15-digit Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN). For a business located in Karnataka, the GSTIN begins with the state code 29, followed by the PAN and a few system-generated characters.
Registration is done online on the GST portal and, once approved, allows the business to collect GST, claim input tax credit, and file returns.
| State | Karnataka |
|---|---|
| GST state code | 29 |
| Regular threshold (goods) | ₹40 lakh |
| Regular threshold (services) | ₹20 lakh |
| Tax components | CGST + SGST (intra-state within Karnataka); IGST for inter-state |
Who must register for GST in Karnataka
- Suppliers of goods with turnover above ₹40 lakh, or services above ₹20 lakh
- Anyone making inter-state taxable supplies of goods
- E-commerce sellers and operators
- Businesses liable to pay tax under reverse charge
- Casual taxable persons and non-resident taxable persons
- Voluntary registrants who want to claim input tax credit
Documents required
- PAN of the business and the proprietor/partners/directors
- Aadhaar of the authorised signatory (for Aadhaar authentication)
- Proof of principal place of business in Karnataka (electricity bill, rent agreement, NOC)
- Bank account proof (cancelled cheque or statement)
- Photographs of proprietor/partners/directors
- Constitution proof (partnership deed / incorporation certificate) where applicable
- Digital Signature Certificate (for companies and LLPs)
Step-by-step process
- File Part A of REG-01. On the GST portal, enter PAN, mobile and email to generate a Temporary Reference Number (TRN).
- Complete Part B. Log in with the TRN and fill business details, promoters, authorised signatory, and the principal place of business.
- Upload documents. Attach the address proof for the premises in Karnataka, bank proof, and constitution documents.
- Aadhaar authentication. Complete Aadhaar authentication of the authorised signatory to speed up approval.
- ARN and GSTIN. Submit to receive an Application Reference Number (ARN); on approval, the GSTIN and registration certificate (REG-06) are issued.
Fees and timeline
With Aadhaar authentication, GST registration is typically approved within 7 working days; physical verification cases may take longer.
Penalties for non-compliance
- Operating without registration when liable attracts a penalty of 10% of tax due (minimum ₹10,000)
- For deliberate evasion, the penalty can be 100% of the tax due
Related guides for Karnataka
Explore more compliance guides for Karnataka, along with the national how-to guides that apply everywhere in India.
- GST registration: complete guide
- How to file GSTR-3B
- Input Tax Credit (ITC) explained
- GST return due dates
Other registrations in Karnataka:
- GST return filing in Karnataka
- Company registration in Karnataka
- Shops & Establishment in Karnataka
- Udyam / MSME registration in Karnataka
Popular cities in Karnataka:
Frequently asked questions
What is the GST state code for Karnataka?
The GST state code for Karnataka is 29, which forms the first two digits of every GSTIN registered in the state.
Is GST registration free in Karnataka?
There is no government fee for GST registration. Professional charges apply only if you engage a consultant to file on your behalf.
How long does GST registration take?
Usually within 7 working days with Aadhaar authentication, subject to any physical verification.