Learn how India’s 18% GST applies to Upwork fees, when it’s collected, how to add your GSTIN, and what to do if your tax info or location changes.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and should not be considered tax advice. It may not be updated in real time and may not reflect recent changes. We strongly encourage you to consult your country’s tax authority or your tax advisor with questions related to your specific situation.
What’s India GST and why does Upwork collect it?
Goods and services tax, or GST, is a tax that includes our services to you, and India requires Upwork to collect it and send it to the government of India unless you provide a valid GSTIN in your tax information.
We’re required to comply with the tax laws of countries where we do business to operate there.
What services does India GST apply to on Upwork?
Examples of services where GST applies:
- Membership Fees
- Connects purchases
- Freelancer Service Fees
Since we charge tax when your government requires it, the tax may change or apply to additional services in the future.
What’s the India GST rate?
It's 18% of the cost of the service being taxed.
Example: On $100 USD in Freelancer Service Fees, you will pay $18 in tax, for a total of $118.
You’ll see the estimated amount of tax when you checkout and the amount charged on your invoices and on your transactions.
Am I required to provide my India GSTIN?
No, but if you provide your India GSTIN to Upwork in your account’s tax information, we will not have to collect this tax from you. We'll also display it on your invoices.
What’s the India GSTIN format?
Your India GSTIN is a unique identification number that you may request from your government by registering for GST in India — not the same as your tax ID.
It has 15 alphanumeric characters and can start and end with a letter or number—like this, for example: 27ABCDE1234F1Z5.
To learn more, visit the India tax authority website for indirect taxes.
How do I enter my India VAT ID on Upwork?
- Go to Manage finances > Tax information
- Click the pencil icon to enter or edit your info
- Select Save
Once you enter your info, we’ll check whether the VAT ID you provide is valid and give you a prompt response when you enter it. You can also see your VAT ID status on your Tax information page.
Does India offer exemptions to GST?
India does not offer any exemptions from GST that are applicable to Upwork’s services, but you can avoid GST charges being collected by Upwork on your behalf by providing a valid GSTIN.
What happens to my India GST if I change my location or information?
If you update your tax residence in your tax information, we'll automatically adjust what we collect to correspond with any taxes that apply in your new country or jurisdiction. You may have to enter a new GSTIN or similar ID.
If you make other changes to your information, such as changing your legal name, you may have to revalidate your GSTIN.
Who does Upwork collect GST from in India?
India’s GST applies to services we provide to both freelancers and clients if they reside, have a permanent address, or are established in India, and we have to collect it if they have not provided us with a valid GSTIN.
Will you still collect GST if I’m only residing in India temporarily?
Yes. As long as your tax residence is set to India, we’re required to collect them. If you move, update your tax information — we’ll adjust accordingly.
If I pay India GST before I enter a valid GSTIN, will you refund that money once I enter it?
No, we sent that money directly to the India government and cannot refund it. You may be able to claim a credit on your taxes — consult with your government’s tax authority or your tax advisor for more information.