How To Register GST - Complete Guide to GST Registration

How To Register GST - Complete Guide to GST Registration

Summary of How To Register For GST

(Optional) Complete the IRAS e-Learning Course

  • Learn the basics of GST, filing returns, and compliance requirements.

Submit Your Application

  • Apply online via myTax Portal with supporting documents.
  • Alternatively, submit Form GST F1 and documents to IRAS at 55 Newton Road, Revenue House, Singapore 307987.

Wait for Processing

  • IRAS typically takes 10 working days, but it may take up to 30 days.
  • If there’s no response after 30 days, follow up with an enquiry.

Receive Confirmation

  • IRAS will mail a confirmation letter with:
    • Your GST Registration Number
    • Your Effective Date of Registration

What is GST and How Does it Work in Singapore?

Goods and Services Tax (shortened as GST) is a consumption tax levied on the import of goods and the supply of goods and services in Singapore, where it is collected by Singapore Customs. 

Every taxable person, as well as businesses, is required to adhere to paying GST. It is important that these businesses are aware of the GST requirements in Singapore, as there are penalties for failure or late registration.

Who Needs to Register for GST?

According to Singapore’s Inland Revenue Authority (IRAS), companies are required to register for GST if they earn more than SGD 1 million in taxable turnover. Additionally, they may also be liable for GST registration under the Reverse Charge and Overseas Vendor Registration regimes.

What is a GST Registration Number?

A GST Registration Number is a unique identifier issued by IRAS to businesses under the GST system. This number consists of a 10-character alphanumeric code used for tax compliance, invoicing, and claiming input tax. 

It also serves as evidence that a business is legally authorised to charge GST on taxable goods.

What are the GST Numbers For?

The GST Registration Number plays a vital role in various aspects of business operations and tax compliance. In addition to what was previously mentioned, it is also used for:

  • Regulatory Compliance

IRAS uses a business’s GST Registration Number to track and monitor GST collection.

  • Verification

Customers and business partners can use the number to confirm a company’s GST 

registration status.

Required Information For GST Registration In Singapore

Before registering online for GST in myTax Portal or submitting forms offline, please get ready the following information

1. Company’s name and registration number;

2. Business Activities of the company;

3. Financial Year End;

4. Issued and Paid-Up capital;

5. Size of the company;

6. How the company intends to prepare its GST returnsOnce all the information are ready, let’s continue the registration process. You will need to upload a soft copy of these supporting documents at the end of the application process.

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How Do You Register for GST in Singapore?

Thankfully, registering for Singapore’s GST is fairly straightforward. We assume you’re registering due to a compulsory requirement rather than voluntarily. 

If not, IRAS provides more information on whether or not you’re required to register here. Below are the steps involved in the GST registration process.

Step 1: Complete the e-Learning Course (Optional)

Before applying for GST registration, businesses can choose to complete IRAS’s e-learning course. 

This course covers the basics of GST, explains the process for filing GST returns, offers compliance tips, and provides an overview of a taxpayer’s obligations.

Step 2: Submit Your GST Registration Application

Businesses must submit their GST registration application, along with the required supporting documents, online via mytax.iras.gov.sg.

If, for any reason, a business cannot access myTax, they may download the GST F1 application form and submit it with supporting documents to IRAS’s physical address:

55 Newton Road, Revenue House, Singapore 307987.

Step 3: Processing Your GST Registration Application

According to IRAS’s website, it typically takes around 10 working days to process an application, though it may take up to 30 days. 

If you haven’t received a response within 30 days of submitting all required documents, you can follow up with an enquiry request.

What Happens Next?

Once you’ve successfully registered for GST, IRAS will send a letter to your registered address to confirm your application.

The letter will contain the following details:

  1. Your GST Registration Number

This is the number you must include on all invoices, credit notes, and receipts.

  1. Your Effective Date of GST Registration

This is the date from which you are required to start charging and collecting GST on your taxable supplies.

If your application for compulsory registration was submitted late, your effective date of registration may be backdated to the date you were liable to register.

GST Registration Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get GST-registered?

IRAS typically takes 10 working days, but it can take up to 30 days, depending on the completeness of your application and documents.

Can I register voluntarily even if I don’t meet the turnover threshold?

Yes, but you must remain registered for at least 2 years and comply with all GST obligations.

What happens if I register late for GST?

You may face penalties, and your effective date of registration may be backdated, requiring you to pay GST on past sales.

How do I know if my business is successfully registered?

IRAS will send a confirmation letter with your GST number and the effective registration date.

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Do you need help with gst registration in singapore? 
Visit our GST Registration service, we provide expert help with registering for GST and refund.

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