ARN stands for Application Reference Number in the context of GST registration. It is a unique 15-digit alpha-numeric code that is generated automatically when a taxpayer successfully submits their GST registration application on the GST portal. The ARN number is official evidence that the taxpayer applied for GST registration on the GSTN portal and was successful. It is used to track the status of the GST registration application until the GST Certificate and GSTIN are issued by the Government.

The format of the ARN is as follows:

• The first two codes are alphabets
• The next two digits are the state code
• The following four codes represent the month and year
• The six digits after that are the unique system-generated number
• The final code displays the checksum digit

Taxpayers can check the status of their GST registration or ARN online on the GST portal. To check the GST ARN status, taxpayers need to follow the steps below:

1. Access the GST portal at https://gst.gov.in
2. Click on "Track Application Status" under Services in the main menu
3. Enter the ARN number in the field provided and complete the CAPTCHA
4. On submitting the form, the status of the ARN number is displayed below

Different types of ARN number status and their meanings are as follows:

• Form Assigned to Approving Officer: The GST application has been assigned to an Officer. The application is pending on the Government side with an Officer for processing.
• Pending for Clarification: The processing officer has requested clarification on the GST registration application filed. Taxpayers should submit the required clarification within the specified time frame.
• Approved: The GST registration application has been approved by the GST officer.
• Rejected: The GST registration application has been rejected by the GST officer.
• Cancelled: The GST registration application has been cancelled by the taxpayer or the GST officer.
• Migrated: The taxpayers details have been migrated to the GST system.