Graphic designers \u2014 whether freelancers, studios or agencies \u2014 provide taxable services under GST. Logo design, branding, UI\/UX, packaging and illustration are all services, and GST applies once you cross the threshold. This guide explains GST for graphic design services, including exports. (Confirm the current rate before invoicing.)<\/p>\n
Graphic design and related creative services are taxed at the standard 18%<\/strong> rate. The designer\/studio adds 18% GST on invoices to Indian clients, collects it, and can claim input tax credit<\/strong> on eligible business expenses (software subscriptions, equipment, workspace).<\/p>\n Register for GST<\/a> once your aggregate turnover crosses \u20b920 lakh<\/strong> (\u20b910 lakh in special-category states), or earlier if you supply through an e-commerce\/marketplace platform or make certain inter-state supplies.<\/p>\n Design services provided to a client outside India<\/strong>, with payment in convertible foreign exchange and the export conditions met, generally qualify as an export of services<\/strong> \u2014 a zero-rated supply<\/strong>. You can export under a Letter of Undertaking (LUT)<\/a> without paying IGST, or pay IGST and claim a refund.<\/p>\n Freelance designers earning through marketplaces or their own clients follow the same rules; where you supply through an e-commerce operator, watch the platform’s GST\/TCS handling. Keep clean records of Indian vs export invoices to apply the right treatment.<\/p>\n Generally 18%<\/strong> for graphic design and related creative services.<\/p>\n Once aggregate turnover exceeds \u20b920 lakh<\/strong> (\u20b910 lakh in special states), or earlier for certain inter-state or platform-based supplies.<\/p>\n Such exports of services are zero-rated<\/strong>; you can supply under LUT without IGST or pay and claim a refund.<\/p>\n Design studio or freelancer needing GST sorted?<\/strong> TAXAJ handles registration, LUT, invoicing and returns. Get GST-ready with TAXAJ \u2192<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Related guides:<\/em> GST registration<\/a> \u00b7 GST for freelancers<\/a> \u00b7 LUT for exports<\/a><\/p>\nWhen do you need to register?<\/h2>\n
Designing for foreign clients \u2014 exports<\/h2>\n
Freelance designers & platforms<\/h2>\n
Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n
What is the GST rate for graphic design services?<\/h3>\n
Do freelance graphic designers need GST registration?<\/h3>\n
Is GST charged on design work for foreign clients?<\/h3>\n
\n