Stamp duty in Kerala: Know land registration charges in 2025

Here is your guide to paying stamp duty and registration charges on property purchases in Kerala in 2025.

Stamp duty in Kerala is among the highest in India for property purchases. Under the Registration Act, 1905, homebuyers must pay the stamp duty and registration fee to register the property in their name legally. The Kerala Registration Department oversees the collection and enforcement of these charges.

Table of Contents

What is stamp duty?

Stamp duty is a mandatory tax levied by the government on legal documents to validate property transactions, agreements, and other financial deals. It serves as proof of ownership and must be paid during property registration. The rate varies by state, transaction type and property value.

Stamp duty in Kerala and land registration charges in Kerala 2025

Registration under the name of Stamp duty for property charges Property registration charges in Kerala
Man 8% 2%
Woman 8% 2%
Joint (man + woman) 8% 2%
Joint (man + man) 8% 2%
Joint (woman + woman) 8% 2%

Source: Kerala Revenue Department

Kerala’s stamp duty and registration charges are among the highest in India, impacting the overall cost of property transactions. While most states in India charge 1% of the deal value as the registration charge – the fee that you pay to the authorities for the paperwork – Kerala charges 2% of the transaction value as the registration charge. This increases the overall cost of property acquisition in the state. To understand this in context, let’s compare these charges with those in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

Stamp duty and registration charges 2025 in various states in India

State  Stamp duty  Registration charges
Kerala 8% of property value 2% of property value
Maharashtra 5% in urban areas, 4% in rural areas 1% of property value, capped at ₹30,000
Tamil Nadu 7% of property value 1% of property value
Karnataka 5% of property value 1% of property value

Land registration charges in Kerala in 2025

Registration under the name of Stamp duty for land registration in Kerala Kerala land registration fees
Man 8% 2%
Woman 8% 2%
Joint (man + woman) 8% 2%
Joint (man + man) 8% 2%
Joint (woman + woman) 8% 2%

Source: Kerala Revenue Department

To calculate the total stamp duty that needs to be paid on your land/property, you can refer to the sample calculation below. Note that this calculation is for representational purposes only.

Property cost = Rs 50 lakh

Stamp duty = Rs 3.5 lakh (7% of Rs 50 lakh)

 

Kerala land registration fee calculator

Registration charges = Rs 1 lakh (2% of Rs 50 lakh)

Total = Rs 4.5 lakh

See also: How to get encumbrance certificate Kerala

 

How to use a stamp duty calculator to calculate stamp duty Kerala 2025?

  • Visit the official stamp duty calculator tool. Go to the Stamp Duty details section.
  • Select the state and the area, such as Gram Panchayat or Municipal Corporation and proceed.
  • Submit the property value. Click enter.
  • The stamp duty to be paid will be displayed.
  • After calculating the amount, proceed to pay the registration charges and stamp duty online.

 

List of documents for stamp duty and property registration in Kerala

You will require the following documents for property registration in Kerala:

  • Agreement to sale
  • Sale deed
  • Land map
  • Building plan approval
  • No-objection certificate
  • Share certificate
  • Building plan approval
  • Proof of ownership
  • ID proof: Voter ID, Ration Card, Aadhaar Card, Driving Licence
  • Address proof: Passport, Aadhaar, water bill
  • Proof of identity of any two witnesses

How to pay stamp duty and registration charges 2025 in Kerala?

Follow our step-by-step guide to register property in any city of Kerala. For better understanding, we will mention steps to pay stamp duty and registration charges for a property in Kochi.

Step 1: To initiate online property registration in Kochi, visit the official website of the Registration Department of Kerala and register using a login ID and password. To create the login credentials, visit http://www.keralaregistration.gov.in and click on ‘Online Document Details Entry- User Registration’.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 2: A new page will now open. Enter all the required information on this page and press ‘Submit’.

 

Stamp duty in Kochi

 

Your registration on the Kerala registration department portal will be complete.

 

Registratin Department of Kerala

 

All registered users have to follow three crucial steps to register their property in Kerala.

  • They have to select an available time slot.
  • They have to enter the document details.
  • They have to submit the application and get an acknowledgement slip.

Step 3: After logging in, go to ‘Doc Registration’ and fill all the mandatory fields. Click on ‘View Token’. A list of available time slots will be generated. Click on an available slot that suits you.

 

Registration charges in Kochi

 

Step 4: Next, select the transaction type. Choose the transaction type carefully as it cannot be modified later. Click on ‘Submit’.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 5: Next, fill in all the mandatory information about the concerned person who is presenting the property for registration and about the property. Fill all the boxes carefully.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 6: Enter the claimant details (buyer’s details).

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 7: Enter the seller’s details. If the property is being sold with a power of attorney, click on the ‘Power of Attorney’ checkbox and fill in the details.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 8: Enter the details of the property to be registered.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 9: If you are buying a flat or apartment in Kochi, click ‘Yes’ on the ‘Is building in property’ option. A new window will open for further details.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 10: In the case of multiple properties and buyers, establish a claimant-property link. Mention which property is attached to which owner.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 11: Mention all the relevant enclosures. This is the list of documents to be provided at the time of registration.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 12: Next, provide witness details. These witnesses will have to be present at the time of property registration. These details can be modified or deleted later.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 13: Enter the details of the stamp paper used.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 14: Use the extra note to provide additional details about the document, if applicable.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 15: Review your selected time and date. Edit the slot, if required, and click on ‘Accept & Submit to SR’ to apply.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 16: Review the summary of the entered details. Make changes, if required, to avoid problems at the time of registration. Click on ‘Accept & Continue’.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 17: Your ‘Mode of Payment’ will appear on the screen with the stamp duty and registration fees to be paid for property registration. Click on ‘Go’ to continue. Payment can be made online.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 18: Once the payment is processed, an acknowledgement slip will appear on the screen with the reference number and date, time and place of presentation.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

On the day of property registration, all parties should carry copies and originals of all property-related documents, identity proofs and address proofs.

Also read all about land tax online Kerala

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala 2025: How E-stamping works?

E-stamping is done electronically through the official portal of the Kerala Registration Department or authorised vendors like the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL). The process involves:

  1. Visit the E-Stamping Portal: Go to the official Kerala Registration Department website or the SHCIL portal.
  2. Select Document Type: Choose the appropriate property transaction type, such as a sale deed, lease deed, or gift deed.
  3. Enter Transaction Details: Fill in the necessary transaction details like the property value, buyer and seller information, and the document type.
  4. Payment: Pay the stamp duty using available online payment methods.
  5. Obtain E-Stamp: After payment, an e-stamp certificate will be generated, which includes a unique serial number.

 

Rectifying errors in E-Stamping

Mistakes in the e-stamp certificate, such as incorrect details in the document or wrong transaction value, can be problematic. Here’s how to rectify them:

  1. Error Identification: Review the e-stamp certificate carefully after the payment. If there is a mistake, such as wrong buyer details, incorrect document type, or a mismatch in the property value, identify it immediately.
  2. Contact the Authorities: If the error is detected, you must approach the authorised e-stamp vendor or the Kerala Registration Department.
    • SHCIL Contact: SHCIL handles e-stamping issues and can be contacted for corrections or cancellations.
    • Kerala Registration Department Contact: Visit the official Kerala Registration Department portal and submit an error correction request along with the relevant documents.
  3. Submit Correct Information: In case of an error, submit the correct details and relevant documents for the amendment.
  4. Reissue E-Stamp: Once the correction is processed, a new e-stamp certificate will be issued with the correct details.

Recovering E-stamping charges

You may be eligible for a refund if you accidentally purchase an e-stamp for the wrong document or pay incorrect stamp duty.

  1. Refund process:
    • Request refund: Contact the e-stamp vendor (SHCIL or the Kerala Registration Department) to request a refund.
    • Submit documents: Provide the necessary documents, including the original e-stamp certificate, transaction details, and reasons for the refund request.
  2. Refund eligibility: Refunds are generally available only if the e-stamp has not been used for registration purposes. If the stamp has been used in the registration process, a refund may not be possible.
  3. Timeline: The refund process usually takes a few weeks, depending on the vendor and the issue’s complexity.

Tips for avoiding e-stamping errors

  • Double-check details: Always verify the details you enter before paying.
  • Maintain records: Keep a copy of the e-stamp certificate and the payment receipt for future reference.
  • Consult a professional: If you need clarification on the e-stamping process, consulting a legal professional or the property registration office can help avoid mistakes.

By providing clear guidance on the e-stamping process and error rectification, home buyers and property sellers can navigate the digital process smoothly, reducing the chances of issues and ensuring accurate documentation.

 

How to spot and avoid fake e-stamps and stamp paper in Kerala

With the increase in online property transactions, Kerala has also seen occasional scams involving fake stamp papers or counterfeit e-stamps. Using invalid stamp paper can invalidate your property documents and even lead to legal trouble. Here’s how to safeguard yourself:

  • Always purchase e-stamps or physical stamp paper from authorised vendors: Use only the official Kerala Registration Department portal or the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL) for e-stamping.

  • Verify the serial number: Each e-stamp comes with a unique serial number. After downloading or receiving your e-stamp, go to the Kerala Registration Department’s official website and use the ‘e-stamp verification’ link. Enter the serial number to instantly confirm authenticity.

  • Physical inspection for paper stamps: Genuine stamp paper will have a watermark, microtext, and official emblems. Avoid papers sold at suspiciously low prices or through unofficial channels.

  • Do not trust third-party agents or middlemen: If you’re using a document writer or property agent, make sure you receive the official payment receipt and serial number for every stamp paper purchased.

  • Watch out for altered or reused stamp papers: Never accept pre-filled, already-used, or corrected stamp papers, as these are invalid.

  • Stay alert to news on scams: If you hear about a fake stamp paper racket in your area, verify all your documents at the sub-registrar’s office.

Taking these precautions will help ensure your property documents are legally valid and stand up in court if ever challenged.

 

How to pay stamp duty 2025 in Kerala offline?

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala could be paid offline through two channels.

Licenced vendor: In this mode of stamp duty payment, the buyer has to purchase stamp paper of the required value from a licensed stamp vendor for his sale instrument.

Franking: Through franking, authorised banks in India stamp property purchase document or affix a denomination on it. This acts as a proof that the stamp duty for the transaction has been paid.

When to pay stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala?

Here’s an overview of when these payments should be made:

Payment timing:

  • Stamp duty: This tax must be paid before or at the time of executing the property document. The document is considered legally valid only if the appropriate stamp duty has been affixed. Delays in payment can lead to penalties, typically accruing at 2% per month, up to a maximum of 200% of the deficient amount.
  • Registration charges: These are generally paid at the Sub-Registrar’s Office during the registration of the property document. Registration formalizes the transaction, making it part of the public record and providing legal ownership rights to the buyer.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala 2025 on various property transactions

In Kerala, stamp duty is applicable to a range of property transactions. The rates differ based on the type of transaction and the relationship between the parties involved. You can check the entire list on https://keralaregistration.gov.in/pearlpublic/downloads/Stamp%20Duty%20&%20Fees.pdf

Here’s a breakdown of the most common rates:

 

Stamp duty on rent agreements

The stamp duty for registering rent agreements, particularly those for an 11-month period is Rs 500.

Document writer’s/scribe’s fee

The charge for document writing services is Rs 10.

 

Stamp duty for sale deed in Kerala

The stamp duty on a sale deed is set at 8% of the property’s sale value. This is the standard rate applied in property sale transactions. Additionally, the stamp paper value for a partnership deed in Kerala is 2% of the partnership property’s value.

 

Stamp duty on gift deed

The stamp duty on a gift deed varies depending on the relationship between the donor and the recipient:

  • For close relatives (such as parents, spouse, children, siblings, grandparents, and grandchildren), the stamp duty on gift deed is 1% of the property’s market value or actual value, whichever is higher.
  • For gifts given to non-relatives, the stamp duty is 2% of the higher of the property’s fair market value or the actual property value.
  • In cases where the gift is made to someone outside the family (non-relatives), the stamp duty can go up to 20% of the property’s value.
  • For all gift deeds, the registration fee is 1% of the fair market or market value, whichever is higher.

For a property to be transferred as a gift, the giver must hold legal ownership and approval of the property. Only immovable property requires the creation of a gift deed under Kerala’s stamp duty laws.

While movable property can also be gifted, a gift deed is only necessary for immovable property under the state’s legal framework.

According to the Indian Contracts Act of 1872, minors cannot directly benefit from a gift deed. If a minor is to receive a gift, it must be done in the name of a legal guardian.

A gift deed, like any contract, must be entered into with free consent. The deed will be considered invalid if the gift is made under pressure, coercion, or influence.

For the gift deed to be legally binding, the receiver must accept the gift during the giver’s lifetime. The receiver’s acceptance is just as important as the giver’s intent, and without this formal acceptance, the gift deed is not valid under the law.

Stamp duty for lease agreement in Kerala

Stamp duty for lease agreements/rent agreements is determined based on the duration of the lease and the annual rent (AAR):

  • For leases up to 1 year, the stamp duty is Rs 5 for every Rs 100 or part thereof of the total rent payable.
  • For leases between 1 and 5 years, the stamp duty is Rs 5 for every Rs 100 or part thereof based on the Average Annual Rent (AAR) reserved in the lease agreement.
  • For leases between 5 and 10 years, the stamp duty increases to Rs 8 for every Rs 100 or part thereof of the AAR.
  • For leases exceeding 10 years but not exceeding 20 years, the stamp duty is Rs 8 for every Rs 100 or part thereof of twice the AAR.
  • For leases up to 20 years, the duty is now 2% of three times the annual average rent (AAR). For leases exceeding 20 years, it’s 2% of four times the AAR.
  • The registration fee for lease agreements is 2% of the total sum payable under the lease.

Previously, agreements for 11 months or less were not mandatory to register; however, recent changes have made registration compulsory for all such agreements, including short-term ones.

 

Stamp duty on mortgage deeds in Kerala

  • Mortgage deeds (where property is pledged as security) are charged a stamp duty of 8% of the amount secured when possession is transferred with the deed.
  • The stamp duty is 5% of the amount secured when possession is not transferred.
  • The registration fee for mortgage deeds is 2% of the amount secured.

 

Stamp duty on cancellation deeds in Kerala

  • Cancellation deeds, used to annul a previously executed property agreement, are subject to a stamp duty of Rs 500.
  • The registration fee for cancellation deeds is Rs 210.

 

Stamp duty for power of attorney in Kerala

For a Power of Attorney (POA) relating to a single transaction:

  • Stamp duty is Rs 50 for the POA, and the registration fee is Rs 210.

 

Stamp duty for partition deeds and family transfers in Kerala 

​In Kerala, the stamp duty and registration fees for partition deeds and family property transfers are structured to facilitate smoother intra-family transactions. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

 

Partition deeds:

  • Stamp duty: For partition deeds among family members, the stamp duty is fixed at Rs 1,000, irrespective of the property’s value.

 

  • Registration fee: The registration fee for such partition deeds is 1% of the property’s value.

 

Family property transfers (Settlement deeds):

  • Stamp duty: For settlement deeds executed among family members, the stamp duty is 1% of the property’s value.

 

  • Registration fee: The registration fee for these settlement deeds is also 1% of the property’s value.

 

Stamp duty on miscellaneous agreements in Kerala

  • Equitable Mortgages: For agreements relating to equitable mortgages, the stamp duty is 0.1%, with a minimum charge of Rs 200 and a maximum of Rs 10,000. The registration fee is charged at Rs 0.1 for every Rs 100 or part thereof.
  • Pawn or Pledge Agreements: Similar to mortgages, the stamp duty is 0.1%, with a minimum of Rs 200 and a maximum of Rs 10,000. The registration fee is again Rs 0.1 for every RS 100 or part thereof.

These rates ensure that property transactions in Kerala are properly documented and legally recognised, providing clarity and security to both buyers and sellers.

The refund will be deposited into your bank account within two weeks of the government’s payment.

Breakdown of costs for different property types

In Kerala, stamp duty and registration charges are generally consistent across various property types, including residential, commercial, and agricultural properties. The standard rates are as follows:

Property type Stamp duty Registration charges
Residential 8% 2%
Commercial 8% 2%
Agricultural 8% 2%

These rates are applied uniformly, irrespective of the property’s usage.

Example calculations

Residential property:

  • Property value: Rs. 50,00,000
  • Stamp duty: 8% of Rs. 50,00,000 = Rs. 4,00,000
  • Registration charges: 2% of Rs. 50,00,000 = Rs. 1,00,000
  • Total charges: Rs. 4,00,000 (Stamp Duty) + Rs. 1,00,000 (Registration) = Rs. 5,00,000

 

Commercial property:

  • Property value: Rs. 1,00,00,000
  • Stamp duty: 8% of Rs. 1,00,00,000 = Rs. 8,00,000
  • Registration charges: 2% of Rs. 1,00,00,000 = Rs. 2,00,000
  • Total charges: Rs. 8,00,000 (Stamp Duty) + Rs. 2,00,000 (Registration) = Rs. 10,00,000

 

Agricultural land:

  • Property value: Rs. 30,00,000
  • Stamp duty: 8% of Rs. 30,00,000 = Rs. 2,40,000
  • Registration charges: 2% of Rs. 30,00,000 = Rs. 60,000
  • Total charges: Rs. 2,40,000 (Stamp Duty) + Rs. 60,000 (Registration) = Rs. 3,00,000

 

It’s important to note that these charges are calculated based on the property’s fair market value or the transaction value, whichever is higher. Additionally, while the rates are uniform, the overall cost will vary depending on the property’s value. Buyers should also consider other potential costs, such as legal fees and miscellaneous expenses when planning their property purchase.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala for women in Kerala in 2025

The registration department of Kerala does not offer any incentives to women homebuyers. Women home buyers in Kochi pay the same stamp duty and registration charge as their male counterparts.

 

Stamp duty calculation in Kerala

Note: This is for representational purposes only:

Property cost = Rs 50 lakh

Stamp duty = Rs 3.5 lakh (7% of Rs 50 lakh)

Registration charges = Rs 1 lakh (2% of Rs 50 lakh)

Total = Rs 4.5 lakh 

Land registration charges in Kerala

Note: This is for representational purposes only.

  • Property cost: Rs 50 lakh
  • Registration charges: Rs 1 lakh (2% of Rs 50 lakh)

Total Registration Charges: Rs 1 lakh

This example focuses solely on calculating the registration charges based on the property’s value.

Stamp duty on inherited property in Kerala

In India, there is no stamp duty or income tax levied on inherited property. The estate duty, which was a form of inheritance tax, was abolished in 1985. Consequently, when a property is inherited, the beneficiary is not required to pay any stamp duty or income tax on the inherited asset.

However, if the inherited property is subsequently sold, capital gains tax may apply based on the property’s valuation and the duration of ownership. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional or legal expert to understand the specific implications related to the sale of inherited property.

Stamp duty refund in Kerala

If you cancel a sale deed in India, you might be able to get your stamp duty money back. Getting a refund isn’t too hard, but there are a few things you should know.

If you cancel the sale within six months, 10% of the amount will be deducted from the stamp duty refund.

 

Stamp duty refund process when a sale deed is cancelled 

If you cancel a sale, the buyer can usually get back 98% of the stamp duty. To get a refund, you need to submit the original agreement and cancellation papers. You might also be able to get tax breaks on your home loan interest.

 

When should you claim a stamp duty refund?

You can ask for a refund if you cancel the sale within a month of registering the property. If you cancel after a month, you won’t get a refund.

 

Steps to follow to reclaim the stamp duty on cancellation

  • Submit a written request for a refund to the Deputy Commissioner within one month after your cancellation.
  • Include copies of all relevant documents. The Deputy Commissioner will review your claim and forward it to the State Government. They will determine the refund amount based on your previous spending and current government regulations.
  • Once you receive the government’s decision, you must sell the property within one month.
  • The refund will be deposited into your bank account within two weeks of the government’s payment.

When purchasing property in Kerala, there is an important update regarding the property registration process that buyers should be aware of. The Kerala Registration Department has recently amended the property registration rules, making it mandatory for both the buyer and seller to be present during the registration of the sale deed, as well as during any cancellation of the deed.

Under the amended Registration (Amendment) Rules (Kerala), 2021, a new clause (viii) has been added to Rule 30. This clause specifies that no document related to the cancellation or revocation of a sale deed or settlement deed will be accepted for registration unless it is executed by all parties involved in the transaction, including both the executants and the claimants.

Additionally, for transactions where the stamp duty exceeds Rs 1 lakh, it is now required to purchase e-stamps from authorized vendors of the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL). Alternatively, buyers can also obtain e-stamps directly from the official portal of the Kerala Registration Department. This update ensures transparency and legal compliance in the property registration process.

 

Why stamp duty matters in property transactions?

Even though it’s sometimes seen as an unnecessary expense, stamp duty is essential to safe and efficient real estate transactions. This is a summary of its significance:

 

Enforceability and validity: Proof that the relevant tax has been paid is provided by a document that has been correctly stamped. As a result, the document is enforceable in court and has legal validity. Documents that are not stamped or are not stamped properly could not be accepted as evidence, which could put the transaction at risk.

 

Fraud deterrent: The imposition of stamp duty serves as a deterrent to the use of falsified or fraudulent documents. It is harder for fraudulent transactions to go undetected when there is a physical or electronic stamp acting as a verification mechanism.

Accountability and transparency: Stamp duty records the amount of the transaction. This openness guarantees more equitable competition in the real estate market and serves as a deterrent to tax evasion.

Market stability: Stamp duty may occasionally serve as a check on excessive speculation in the real estate sector. Frequent transactions with a cost component can promote a more stable and harmonious market environment.

Buyer protection: Properly stamped documents ultimately safeguard the buyer’s interests, even though they are typically paid for by the buyer. It guarantees an unambiguous and lawful transfer of ownership, reducing the possibility of unforeseen conflicts.

 

Generating revenue: For governments, stamp duty is a major source of revenue. In the end, society as a whole benefits from this revenue, which is utilized to finance a range of public services and infrastructure development initiatives.

Tax benefit on stamp duty in Kerala 

Through Section 80C, nearly a dozen investment/expenditures, including payments made towards provident fund, public provident fund, life insurance policies, home loan principal, stamp duty-registration fee on property purchase, etc., have been made tax free. However, a taxpayer can only claim up to Rs 1.50 lakh in a year as deduction under Section 80C. However, the buyer must meet the following conditions to claim tax deduction on stamp duty payment in Kerala under Section 80C:

  • You must qualify as an individual owner, a co-owner of the property or a member of a Hindu Undivided Family (HUF).
  • The benefit must be claimed in the same fiscal year when you’ve incurred the stamp duty charges. Deductions cannot be claimed for stamp duty paid in prior years or not yet paid.
  • In the case of stamp duty for an under-construction property, deductions can be claimed upon possession of the property.
  • Stamp duty deductions are not applicable for commercial properties, plots of land or non-residential properties.
  • Deductions cannot be claimed for resale properties. The eligibility for this tax benefit requires a ‘fresh occupancy’ of the property.
  • The property should not be sold within its lock-in period, which spans five years. Selling the property before this duration results in the reversal of the tax benefit, and any deductions previously claimed become payable.

 

Key points to remember if you are going to register property in Kerala

  • Keep a checklist of necessary documents handy.
  • Make sure you have at least two sets of photocopies of all the documents.
  • Make sure you have done previous calculation of the stamp duty and registration fee you have to pay.
  • The revenue department allows payments through specific channels. Make sure all your cards are valid and activated at the time.
  • On the day of registry, you must visit the sub-register’s office on the appointed time along with the witnesses and seller. Each part must carry their identity and address proof, and the photocopies of these documents.
  • According to the law, one stamp duty is paid, the property transfer must conclude within six months of the transfer.

 

What is the validity of stamp paper in Kerala? 

As per the Kerala Stamp Act, the Kerala Stamp Paper is valid forever. One can return unused Kerala stamp paper to the collector and receive a refund within six months. The Kerala stamp paper can still be returned post this if the refund is not provided.

 

E-stamping in Kerala: process and error rectification

E-stamping is a modern method introduced by the government to make the payment of stamp duty more convenient and transparent. While the article briefly mentions e-stamping, it’s essential to provide detailed guidance on its process, how to rectify errors, and how to recover e-stamping charges if required.

What are the common challenges faced by people while paying stamp duty in Kerala?

The common challenges include:

  • Wrong calculation of stamp duty and registration fees.
  • Not getting the Kerala property documents on time.
  • Not knowing the rebates and discounts offered by the Kerala state government.

To avoid wrong calculations, it is recommended to use the Kerala Land Registration Fee Calculator. One should check the property valuation with the Kerala state government rates and if still there is some doubt, one should opt for professional service.

 

Kerala registration department contact information

Inspector-General, Department of Registration,

Vanchiyur PO, Thiruvananthapuram,

Kerala – 695035

Email: regig.ker@nic.in

Phone: 0471-2472118, 2472110

Housing.com POV

Stamp duty is a fee homebuyers in India pay to the government at the time of property registration. Levied and controlled by the state government, this is a form of tax charged on property transactions. For calculation of stamp duty, the value of the property is calculated based on the prevalent circle rate/ready reckoner rate/guidance value/ collector rate in the area. Circle rate is the basic minimum value assigned to property by states.  No property in India can be registered below its circle rate value. Also, any efforts to evade stamp duty might get you in legal trouble, attracting fine and/or imprisonment

 

FAQs

What is the stamp duty in Kerala?

Stamp duty in Kerala is 8% of the transaction value.

What is registration fee on property registry in Kerala?

Registration fee on property registry in Kerala is 2% of the transaction value.

Is it mandatory to pay stamp duty and registration fee in Kerala?

Yes, it is mandatory to pay stamp duty on property registry in Kerala.

Can I register property online in Kerala?

You can complete a major part of property registration online. However, for final verification, you have to visit the sub-registrar office.

Do banks lend money to pay stamp duty?

No, banks don’t lend money to pay stamp duty.

How do I verify the authenticity of an e-Stamp in Kochi?

Visit the web portal www.keralaregistration.gov.in and click on the link ‘e-stamp verification’ on the homepage. Enter the e-Stamp serial number to verify the authenticity of the e-Stamp.

e-Stamp can be printed multiple times. How do you prevent its misuse?

All operations or services for an e-Stamp-based document should be conducted only after online verification of its authenticity and validity. Printing an e-Stamp multiple times will not affect the online status of its authenticity and validity.

What is land registration fees in Kerala?

The Kerala government collects 8% of the fair value as stamp duty and 2% as registration fee for land registry.

Can I pay stamp duty offline in Kerala?

Buyers have to make the stamp duty payment online in Kerala.

How is e-stamping done?

The Centre has appointed the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL) as the agency for e-stamps across the country. Buyers can visit the SHCIL portal to pay stamp duty on their property purchase.

 

 

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com

 

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