How to check GST ARN Number Status Online in 2026

If you recently applied for GST registration, you’ll likely have received a 15-digit Application Reference Number (ARN). This ARN acts like a tracking ID, helping you monitor the progress of your registration application. Checking your GST ARN Status Online regularly can save you from unnecessary delays or surprises — especially if the tax authorities request clarifications or conduct a site inspection.

In this comprehensive guide, we cover what ARN means, how to check the GST ARN status Online (with/without login), possible statuses and what they imply, what you should do at each stage, and common pitfalls and tips to make your registration smoother.

Table of Contents

What Is GST ARN — And Why It Matters

ARN stands for Application Reference Number. It is generated by the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) when you submit a new GST registration application on the official GST Portal. Typically, ARN is a 15-digit alphanumeric code.

Once generated, the ARN is sent to your registered email and mobile number. You can also note it down from the confirmation page.

The ARN is essential because it’s the only way to track the progress of your GST registration application. Without it, you cannot check whether your application is pending, approved, rejected, or under verification.

Think of ARN as a tracking ID for a parcel — it helps you see where your application is and whether any action is needed from your side.

How to Check GST ARN Status Online in 2026 (Step-by-Step)

You can check your GST ARN status on the GST Portal either without logging in or after logging in. Here’s a stepwise approach for both methods:

Method 1: Check Without Login

This is useful if you don’t yet have login credentials, or just want a quick status check.

Open the GST Portal: gst.gov.in
Go to Services → Registration → Track Application Status.
On the “Track Application Status” page, select “Registration” from the module dropdown.
Enter your ARN (or SRN/FRN if relevant) in the field provided.
Enter the displayed captcha code.
Click Search. The portal will display the current status of your application.

Method 2: Check After Login

If you already have login credentials on the GST portal, this method lets you track status and also access any notices, messages, or documents issued by officials.

Log in to the GST Portal using your username and password.
Go to Services → Registration → Track Application Status.
Enter your ARN, captcha, and click Search.
View the status and any additional details — such as whether there’s a clarification request, rejection notice, or instructions to download login credentials.

Possible ARN Statuses & What They Mean

When you check your GST ARN status Online in 2026, the portal may show one of several statuses, depending on where your application stands. Here are the common ones and their meanings:

Status	What It Means / Next Steps
Pending for Processing	Your application has been submitted successfully — it is waiting for the tax officer to begin processing.
Site Verification Assigned	A GST officer has scheduled a physical verification (site visit) of your business address. Prepare to accommodate the inspection.
Site Verification Completed	The site verification has been done, and the officer has submitted the report. Next, the officer will evaluate and make a decision.
Pending for Clarification	The officer requires additional documents or information. You need to log in, download the notice, and respond with the required docs promptly.
Clarification Filed – Pending for Order	The site verification has been done and the officer has submitted the report. Next, the officer will evaluate and make a decision.
Clarification Not Filed – Pending for Order	You did not respond within the stipulated time — the officer may proceed with an order (possibly rejection).
Approved	Your GST registration application is approved. You will receive your GSTIN (GST Identification Number) and login credentials.
Rejected	Your application has been rejected. Reasons are usually provided — you may need to rectify issues and reapply.

Typical Timeline & What to Do at Each Stage

In many cases, after you submit your registration application and receive ARN, the processing — if smooth — takes 3 to 7 working days.
If the application involves site verification or if a clarification is sought, the process might take longer.

What you should do as a taxpayer:

Keep your registered email and mobile active — status updates are often sent there via SMS/email.
Regularly check the portal using your ARN (or login) — especially around 5–7 days after submission.
Respond promptly in case of clarification requests; delays can cause rejection.
If approved — download the GST certificate immediately; if rejected, check the issue, correct it, and reapply.

Common Reasons for Delays or Rejections & How to Avoid Them

Based on industry-wide observations and common pitfalls highlighted by GST professionals, these are frequent problems for applicants:

Incorrect or incomplete documents e.g., blurry scans, unclear address proof, mismatch between PAN and business details.
Mismatch in PAN, Aadhaar or identity details — always double-check before submitting.
Incorrect selection of taxpayer type (like Proprietorship vs Company vs LLP vs Partnership).
Not responding to clarification notices on time.
Mistakes in the application form: wrong business address, incorrect bank account details, missing signature or digital signature (where required).

Tip: Before you hit submit, check that all details (PAN, address, city, postal code), partner/owner information, bank details, and contact information are accurate. Good documentation can cut your registration time dramatically.

After Approval — What Next?

Once your application is marked Approved, you should:

Log in to the GST Portal.
Go to Services → User Services → View/Download Certificates.
Download your GST Registration Certificate (PDF). This certificate contains your GSTIN, legal/trade name, address, and other registration details.
Save this certificate carefully — you’ll need it for invoicing, tax filings, and official compliance.

If your registration is rejected, carefully read the rejection reason in the portal, rectify the mistakes, and reapply — ensuring all information and documentation are accurate this time. If you want to help hire a leading consultant for GST Registration online, our expert team can help you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I check my GST registration status without logging in?
Yes, by using the ARN (or SRN/FRN) on the “Track Application Status” page of the GST Portal. Login is not required.

Q: What is the usual processing time after ARN generation?
Typically, it takes 3 to 7 working days — but may extend if site verification or clarifications are involved.

Q: What if my status shows ‘Pending for Clarification’?
It means the tax officer needs additional information/documents. You should log in, download the clarification notice, and respond promptly to avoid delays or rejection.

Q: I got “Approved” — when will I get my GSTIN?
Once approved, your GSTIN and login credentials are sent via email/SMS — and you can also download your certificate from the portal immediately.

Q: My application was rejected. Can I reapply?
Yes, after correcting errors or providing accurate documents/info, you can reapply for GST registration.