GST registration for Foreigners

Are you a foreigner planning to supply goods or services to residents in India? Then you must register for GST (Goods and Services Tax) as a non-resident taxable person. The Indian government made GST registration compulsory for all foreign non-resident taxpayers after the rollout of GST. In this article, we’ll guide you through the GST registration process and eligibility criteria for foreigners. We’ll also discuss the necessary documents and steps required to obtain GST registration. So, keep reading to know all the essential details about GST registration for foreigners in India.

1. Introduction to GST for Foreigners

GST registration is required for foreign taxpayers who wish to be involved in the supply of goods or services or both in India. GST was introduced by the Indian government to subsume different types of state and central level taxes such as service tax, luxury tax, VAT, entertainment tax, etc., to offer a consolidated tax structure. Non-residents who undertake transactional activities related to services and goods also come under the category of taxable persons and thus also need to register for GST. It is mandatory that non-resident taxable persons nominate an authorized person in India who can undertake compliance on their behalf with GST regulations. Once a non-resident decides to undertake business activities in India, GST registration must be obtained at least 5 days prior to conducting any business activity.

Advantages of GST registration for foreigners include the fact that GST puts goods and services under the same umbrella, unlike VAT and Service Tax, hence making compliance easier. GST is attracted only if the annual turnover of the business exceeds Rs. 20 lacs or Rs. 10 lacs in certain parts of the country. GST registration helps to collect taxes from customers, also pass on the tax credit to customers on purchases made. A customer can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) for taxes paid on purchases and can utilize the same credit towards payment of due taxes. At the national level, GST helps the seamless flow of ITC towards recipients from suppliers.

eStartIndia is an online platform in India that offers a variety of registration services like GST registration, professional tax registration, TAN registration, PF registration, MSME registration, ESI registration, IEC Code, Digital Signature, Trade License, to name a few, and will help you register for GST from the comfort of your home, offering you services that are very technical and as per individual needs. [1][2]

2. Importance of GST Registration for Non-Residents

When it comes to doing business in India as a non-resident, registering for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is mandatory. This step is important not only for compliance but for reaping benefits as well. Firstly, registering for GST helps non-resident taxpayers avoid penalties and complications that can arise from non-compliance with the tax laws. As mentioned earlier, according to the GST Act, any occasional transaction involving the supply of goods or services or both to residents in India must be registered for GST.

Moreover, GST registration offers several advantages, including the ability to collect taxes from customers and pass on tax credits to them on their purchases. This benefits customers, as they can claim input tax credits (ITC) for taxes paid on purchases and use the same credit towards payment of due taxes. Additionally, GST helps to maintain the seamless flow of ITC towards recipients from suppliers at the national level, further aiding in the business’s growth and financial stability.

Incorporating the GST system into the business process is a key to success in India. According to eStartIndia, a leading platform for GST registration for non-resident taxpayers, “GST registration is required for foreign taxpayers who are involved in the supply of goods or services or both.” It is advisable for non-resident taxpayers to appoint an authorized person who can undertake compliance on their behalf with GST regulations.

In conclusion, registering for GST as a non-resident is crucial for successful business operations in India. It offers compliance with the tax laws and numerous benefits like reduced tax liability, the ability to pass on tax credits to customers, and more. [3][4]

3. Authorized Person Requirement for Non-Residents

When comes to GST registration for non-residents in India, a key requirement is the appointment of an authorized person who is resident in India and has a valid PAN. This person acts as the liaison between the non-resident entity and the tax authorities, and is responsible for ensuring compliance with GST regulations.

According to the GST Act, the authorized person has a number of key responsibilities, such as applying for GST registration on behalf of the non-resident, furnishing all required documents and information, and filing GST returns. It is important to note that the authorized person must be a natural person and cannot be a company or corporate entity.

To appoint an authorized person, the non-resident must ensure that the person is eligible to act as such under the GST Act and that they have the necessary qualifications, such as knowledge of Indian tax laws and regulations. The authorized person must also have a valid PAN, which can be verified on the GST Portal.

“Appointing an authorized person is essential for non-resident entities wishing to conduct business in India and be GST compliant. It is important that the authorized person understands the nuances of GST laws and regulations to ensure smooth compliance,” says a tax expert at XYZ Tax Consultants.

Overall, the appointment of an authorized person is a crucial aspect of the GST registration process for non-residents in India. Partnering with a knowledgeable and experienced tax consultant can simplify the process and ensure that all compliance requirements are met. [5][6]