Biometric Aadhaar Authentication for GST Registration in Andhra Pradesh

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has notified the enforcement of biometric Aadhar authentication for GST registration Andhra Pradesh from 4th December 2023. This significant move came after a similar direction was given for Gujarat and Puducherry and later extended to the whole of India. In this article, we will explore what biometric-based Aadhar authentication and document verification means and look at the eligibility and process for AP GST registration.

About biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication

Biometric Aadhaar authentication is a secure procedure where individuals submit their Aadhaar numbers and accompanying demographic or biometric data to UIDAI's Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR) for verification. 

This method, now integral to GST registration Andhra Pradesh, enhances the overall security of the registration process. Requiring Aadhaar certification and biometric verification at designated GST Suvidha Kendras (GSKs) aims to bolster security measures, minimise fraudulent registrations, and foster a more accountable business environment in the state.

As per the CGST notification no. 13/2024 dated 10th July 2024, the biometric-based Aadhaar authentication for GST registration that was earlier notified and implemented on a pilot basis in Gujarat and Puducherry has now been extended to the whole of India by cancelling the earlier notification.

As per the CGST notification no. 12/2024 dated 10th July 2024, the applicants who do not opt for Aadhaar Authentication must submit a photograph of the individual applicant or individuals related to the case of the rest of the applicants and get original documents verified at one of the designated facilitation centres.

Eligibility for AP GST registration

The criteria for AP GST registration for businesses in Andhra Pradesh are in line with those applicable in other regions. For those dealing in goods, registration becomes mandatory when their annual turnover surpasses Rs. 40 lakh, while for service providers, the GST registration threshold limit is Rs. 20 lakh. Applicants eligible for the biometric based Aadhaar authentication for AP GST registration are selected after comprehensively analysing data and risk parameters utilising Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication.

Process of biometric based Aadhaar authentication for AP GST registration

The process of biometric Aadhaar authentication GST registration in Andhra Pradesh is designed to be straightforward and secure. Here is how it works:

• Once the application in REG-01 is submitted, an email is sent to the applicant with either a link for OTP-based Aadhaar Authentication or an appointment booking link for Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication at a designated GST Suvidha Kendra (GSK).
• Applicants can proceed with the usual process if the provided link is for OTP-based Aadhaar Authentication.
• If the link is for an appointment, applicants need to schedule a visit to the designated GSK.
• Before visiting the GSK, applicants should gather essential documents mentioned in the email, such as a copy of the appointment confirmation, jurisdiction details, Aadhaar Number, and original application documents.

In conclusion, the CBIC's notification extending biometric Aadhar authentication for GST registration Andhra Pradesh reflects the government's dedication to strengthening the GST framework. This strategic move elevates security measures and streamlines the registration process, rendering it more resilient and to fraudulent activities.