GST Registration Delay? CBIC Says It’s a Myth
Several social media posts recently alleged that “GST registrations are being unnecessarily delayed by the department.” In response, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) issued a clarification on 1st June 2025, debunking these claims.
Let’s break it down simply so you know the truth about GST registration timelines, what the rules say, and how you can respond if there’s a genuine delay.
What Did CBIC Clarify?
CBIC published a public post stating:
- No systemic delay exists in processing new GST registration applications.
- Strict timelines are being followed as per Rule 9 of CGST Rules, 2017.
- The average turnaround time is less than 7 days across India.
- Most delays happen only when documents are incomplete or incorrect.
🔗 CBIC Official Tweet – 1 June 2025
Actual GST Registration Timelines (Rule 9 of CGST Rules)
| Step | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application submission | Day 0 | Online via GST portal |
| ARN generation | Immediate | Application Reference Number |
| Officer verification (no site visit) | Within 7 working days | Based on documents submitted |
| Officer verification (site visit) | Within 30 days | Only if doubts arise about place of business |
| Final approval or rejection | Within the timelines | System auto-approves if no action in 7 or 30 days respectively |
✅ If documents are in order, you should get approval in under a week.
Common Reasons for Real Delays
If your application is genuinely delayed, it’s often due to:
- Mismatched or unclear documents (e.g., electricity bill not matching address)
- Fake or rented address without proper proof
- PAN and Aadhaar not linked
- Suspicious IP or geo-location mismatches
👉 Tip: Use a professional like a CA or tax consultant to avoid errors during filing.
What You Can Do If Delayed
Here’s what taxpayers can do if they face unjustified delay:
- Track ARN status on www.gst.gov.in
- Email jurisdictional officer if no update after 7 working days
- Raise grievance on CPGRAMS – pgportal.gov.in
- Escalate to CBIC via X (@cbic_india) with ARN details
- Use RTI or file writ petition if timelines are violated despite full compliance
Expert View: Don’t Rely on Viral Posts
“Most social media claims are half-truths. Always refer to the CGST Rules and track your own ARN status. Delay often stems from poor documentation.”
— Practical advice from CA Sneha Rao, GST Consultant, Bengaluru
Internal Link
Need help with GST registration without delays?
Read our detailed guide: How to Apply for GST Registration Online – Step-by-Step Guide
FAQ Section
Q1: Is there a time limit for GST registration approval?
Yes, 7 working days without site visit, 30 days with site visit.
Q2: Can I escalate my ARN if it’s pending beyond 7 days?
Yes. Email your officer, raise grievance on pgportal.gov.in, or tweet CBIC.
Q3: Can my registration be auto-approved?
Yes, if the officer doesn’t act within the prescribed timelines.
Summary
CBIC confirms there’s no systemic delay in GST registration. False social media claims debunked. Know Rule 9 timelines, causes for real delays, and how to escalate if approvals are pending. Stay compliant with verified info from Efiletax.