Biometric Aadhaar Authentication for GST in Bihar: The New "High Security" Gate

The GST Department in Bihar has fully activated the Biometric-Based Aadhaar Authentication mechanism under Rule 8 of the CGST Rules, 2017. If you have applied for a new GST registration and received an email asking you to visit a GST Suvidha Kendra (GSK) instead of getting an immediate ARN, this guide is for you.

The "Two Paths" of Registration: OTP vs. Biometric

When you submit your GST application (Form GST REG-01), the GSTN system (using AI and Data Analytics) assigns a Risk Rating to your application based on your PAN history, location, and business type.

This rating determines your path:

OTP Based

Who: Applicants flagged as “Low Risk.”

Process: You enter the Aadhaar OTP on the portal.

Outcome: ARN (Application Reference Number) is generated immediately.

Timeline: Registration typically processed within 7 days.

Biometric Required

Who: Applicants flagged as “High Risk” (Common in rental properties, sensitive goods trading, or new PANs).

Process: The OTP option is disabled or insufficient. You receive a link to book a physical appointment.

Outcome: ARN is generated ONLY AFTER successful physical verification at a GSK.

Timeline: The 7-day processing clock starts after the biometric visit.

Step-by-Step: How to Clear Biometric Authentication

If you have been selected for Biometric Authentication, follow this exact legal procedure to avoid application expiry.

You will receive an email from GSTN with the subject: “Intimation for Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication.”

Action: Locate the booking link inside this email.

⚠️ Warning: Do not ignore this. Your TRN (Temporary Reference Number) has an expiry date.

Click the link to open the GSK Appointment Portal.

Enter your TRN.
Select your District (e.g., Patna, Gaya).
Choose the nearest GST Suvidha Kendra (GSK).
Pick a Date and Time slot.
Download the Appointment Letter

You must visit the center in person. You cannot send an accountant or advocate in your place.

📍 Where are GSKs located in Bihar?

GSKs are typically located within the State GST (Commercial Tax) Department Circle Offices.

Patna

Commercial Tax Bhawan, Chiraiyatand / Gardiner Road

Muzaffarpur

Circle Office, Club Road

Gaya

State GST Office, Near Civil Court

At the center, the officer will:

Verify your original documents (Checklist below).
Capture your Photo via webcam.
Capture your Fingerprints/Iris using a biometric device.
Match this data with the UIDAI (Aadhaar) database in real-time.

✅ Success: Once matched, the officer will update the system. Your TRN status will change to “Pending for Processing,” and the ARN will be generated and sent to your email/mobile.

The GSK Officer has the authority to deny verification if documents are missing. Carry Originals + 1 Set of Self-Attested Photocopies:

Appointment Letter:Hard copy of the booking confirmation.
Aadhaar Card:Original (Must match the applicant’s face).
PAN Card:Original.
Proof of Principal Place of Business:
- If Owned:Electricity Bill + Consent Letter/Deed.
- If Rented:Rent Agreement + Electricity Bill.
Bank Passbook/Cancelled Cheque:(If bank details were uploaded).
Authorization Letter:(If the applicant is an Authorized Signatory for a Company/LLP/Partnership).

Why Was I Flagged as "High Risk"?

In our legal experience handling cases in Bihar, the following triggers often force Biometric Authentication:

Geo-Location Mismatch: Applying for a GST in a commercial hub (e.g., Fraser Road, Patna) while residing in a different district.
Risky Commodities: Dealing in scrap, betel nuts, or iron/steel (sectors prone to ITC fraud).
Fresh PAN: No Income Tax Return (ITR) history linked to the PAN.
Shared Device: Using the same computer/IP address to apply for multiple GSTs (e.g., applying from a Cyber Cafe).

Need Help With Your GST Registration?

Our legal experts can guide you through the biometric authentication process, help you prepare documents, and locate your nearest GSK in Bihar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In our legal experience handling cases in Bihar, the following triggers often force Biometric Authentication:

1.My TRN shows "Pending for Biometric". Can I cancel and re-apply to get the OTP option?

No. The "High Risk" tag is linked to your PAN. If you cancel and re-apply, the system will flag you again, and you may face stricter scrutiny. Complete the biometric process; it is the fastest way out.

2. I am in Delhi, but applying for Bihar GST. Do I have to travel to Bihar?

Yes. Under the current pilot rules, you must visit the GSK in the jurisdiction where you are applying. If you are applying for Bihar GST, you must visit the designated center in Bihar.

3. What if my fingerprints don't match (e.g., faded prints)?

The officer can use Iris (Eye) Scan as an alternative. Ensure your Aadhaar biometric data is updated. If both fail, the officer may initiate a manual document verification process (Non-STP), which takes longer.

4. Is there a fee for this verification?

No. The Biometric Authentication at the GSK is free of cost. If any staff demands money, report it to the Joint Commissioner of State Tax immediately.

5. Is biometric Aadhaar authentication mandatory for GST registration?

Yes — under the latest GST rules, applicants identified based on risk parameters must complete biometric Aadhaar authentication or an Aadhaar authentication process to finalize GST registration.

6. Who needs to undergo biometric Aadhaar verification for GST?

Taxpayers whose GST registration applications are flagged for additional verification based on data analytics and risk factors must complete biometric Aadhaar authentication.

7. What happens if I don’t opt for Aadhaar authentication during registration?

If a taxpayer opts out of Aadhaar authentication, they must visit a GST Suvidha Kendra (GSK) for photo capture and document verification as a substitute.

8. How long do I have to complete Aadhaar authentication after applying for GST registration?

After submitting Part-B of the GST REG-01 application, Aadhaar authentication (either OTP or biometric) must be completed within 15 days, otherwise the authentication link expires.

9. Can I receive an OTP for Aadhaar authentication?

Yes — if you choose Aadhaar authentication online, an authentication link is sent to your registered email and mobile; an OTP is delivered to the phone/email linked with your Aadhaar for verification.

10. What documents should I carry for biometric authentication at a GSK?

You must bring your original Aadhaar card, PAN, and any original documents uploaded with your GST registration application for verification at the designated centre.