How to Register on GeM Portal in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM)is India's largest public procurement platform. If you want to sell goods or services to central government ministries, departments, and PSUs, GeM registration is the first mandatory step. This guide walks you through the entire process — documents, fees, common mistakes, and how to start bidding.

What is GeM and Who Can Register?

GeM is an online platform launched by the Government of India to facilitate procurement of common-use goods and services by government organisations. Any Indian business — proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or private limited — can register as a seller.

Buyers on GeM include central ministries, PSUs, railways, defence organisations, and public sector banks. Once registered, you can list products, participate in bids, and receive direct orders.

Documents Required for GeM Registration

• PAN card of the business/individual
• GST registration certificate (mandatory for most categories)
• Cancelled cheque or bank account details
• Aadhaar-linked mobile number and email ID
• Business address proof (rent agreement, utility bill, etc.)
• MSME/Udyam registration (optional but gives fee waivers and preference)
• Trade licence or incorporation certificate (for companies/LLPs)

Step-by-Step GeM Registration Process

1. Visit the official GeM portal: Go to bidplus.gem.gov.in or gem.gov.in.
2. Click Seller Registration: Select the seller/vendor option and enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number for OTP verification.
3. Fill business details: Enter PAN, GST, business name, constitution type, and registered address.
4. Upload documents: Submit PAN, GST, cancelled cheque, and address proof as per the category requirements.
5. Create catalogue: Add the products or services you want to sell. Use accurate descriptions, images, and competitive pricing.
6. Pay caution money: GeM requires a refundable caution money deposit based on turnover (₹5,000 to ₹1,00,000). MSMEs often get exemptions or lower slabs.
7. Wait for approval: Verification usually takes 24–72 hours. Once approved, you can start bidding.

How to Bid on GeM Tenders

After registration, use the search filters to find tenders matching your catalogue. Read the bid document carefully, check eligibility, and submit your bid before the deadline. GeM uses reverse auction and L1 (lowest bidder) mechanisms, so pricing strategy is critical.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Uploading blurry or mismatched documents
• Using a personal bank account instead of a business account
• Ignoring the caution money requirement
• Listing products in the wrong category
• Missing bid submission deadlines

Frequently Asked Questions

Is GeM registration free?

Registration itself is free, but sellers must pay a refundable caution money deposit to participate in bids.

Can a proprietorship register on GeM?

Yes. Individuals and proprietorships can register using their PAN and Aadhaar.

How long does GeM approval take?

Most registrations are approved within 24–72 hours if documents are clear and match the details provided.

Start Finding Tenders Today

Once your GeM account is active, use TenderHub to search live GeM tenders by category, state, value, and closing date. We link every tender back to the official source so you can bid with confidence.