gstn-rolls-out-biometric-aadhaar-verification-in-four-states

The Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) has issued a notification on December 8, 2024, regarding biometric-based Aadhaar authentication and document verification for GST registration in Haryana, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura. 

 

The amendment to Rule 8 of the CGST Rules, 2017, allows for the identification of applicants using data analysis and risk parameters for biometric authentication, as well as by capturing the applicant’s photograph and verifying the original documents uploaded with the GST application.

 

Under the new procedure, many applicants may not be required to undergo biometric authentication. However, some applicants, identified by the system during the application process, will be required to visit a GST Suvidha Kendra (GSK) for biometric authentication and document verification.

 

According to the GSTN website, after submitting an application in Form GST REG-01, applicants will receive one of two links via email:

1. A link for OTP-based Aadhaar authentication, or

2. A link to book an appointment for biometric-based Aadhaar authentication and document verification at a designated GSK.

If an applicant receives the link for OTP-based Aadhaar authentication, they can proceed with the existing application process. However, if the applicant receives the link for booking an appointment, they must schedule a visit to the GSK for biometric verification and document verification. This appointment booking facility is currently available for applicants in Haryana, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura.

 

After booking an appointment, the applicant will receive an email confirmation. They are required to bring the following documents when visiting the GSK:

• A copy of the appointment confirmation email (either hard or soft copy)

• Jurisdiction details as mentioned in the intimation email

• Original Aadhaar and PAN cards

• Original copies of the documents uploaded with the GST application, as communicated in the intimation email.

The biometric authentication and document verification process will take place at the designated GST Suvidha Kendra. Applicants are required to select an appointment for biometric verification within the maximum permissible period specified in the intimation email. Once the biometric-based Aadhaar authentication and document verification are completed, an Application Reference Number (ARN) will be generated.

 

Similar biometric authentication and document verification facilities are also available in states including Ladakh, Kerala, Odisha, Nagaland, and Telangana.